Bryan & Laurie Smith
YWAM | Ukraine
Bryan and Laurie believe that Jesus is walking among the people of war-torn Ukraine, and He does that through His believers. Psalm 34:18 says, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted…”, and there are many broken-hearted people there. Bryan and Laurie began serving with Youth With A Mission in Kyiv in July 2023 and so far have helped with humanitarian aid, building projects, nursing home visitation, an English-speaking club, and hospitality for international volunteers and children coming to camps.
Facts About Ukraine
- About the size of Texas, Ukraine has a population of approximately 40 million people.
- The capital city of Kyiv is home to about 3 million people and has a history dating back more than 1,500 years.
- Ukraine is the world’s 4th largest exporter of food.
- Ukraine’s official language is Ukrainian, but many people also speak Russian or a blend of the two languages called Surgic.
- Russia invaded Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula in 2014, and then launched a full-scale invasion of the country in February 2022. The war is ongoing, and has resulted in many thousands of deaths, much destruction of property, and the displacement of millions of people.
Prayer Requests
- Pray that the people of Ukraine will repent and turn to Jesus, the true source of life.
- Pray for an end to the destruction and death caused by the ongoing war.
- Pray that God would give wisdom and the fear of God to the government and military leaders.
- Pray that God would continue to open doors for ministry to the people and that Bryan and Laurie would be effective in ministry to them.
- Pray for their safety and the safety of those serving God alongside them.