Recently, we shared with you about the rebuilding of theological education in Ukraine. As Christian leaders in Ukraine actively participate in crisis relief efforts, they are also continuing to engage in a strategic approach for the future of theological education. Their goal has been to move from operating in crisis mode to realizing a more strategic approach for theological education and to establish several objectives towards that goal.
We shared the following questions with you:
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How can the Church in Ukraine rebuild?
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Where will leaders come from to fill the gaps left by pastors and faculty who have been lost?
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What will an effective witness look like now and in the future?
On his return from a recent trip to Ukraine, Evan Hunter (ScholarLeaders International) shared the great news that the International Evangelical Theological Alliance (IETA) has been officially formed. This alliance will “serve theological education in the region, providing a platform for collaboration and theological reflection, as well as quality assurance and resources for schools as they impact the church and society.”
Additionally, the first in-person Institute for Excellence conference since 2019 was held in early November, bringing connection as well as robust discussion about the future of theological education in Ukraine. Helga Marchek, Overseas Council Educational Consultant for Ukraine, shared, “After the week of interaction with people during the Institute, I feel hopeful about the near future of theological education in our region.”
Meanwhile, people are going about their lives as best they can. Evan writes:
“At this moment, Lviv and Kyiv have a limited vibrancy. People are out and about, living life as normally as possible. The schools have students enrolled and are making plans for the future…However, the toll of the war looms large. The sirens and phone alerts remain common. Apprehension of another cold and dark winter permeates the air. The loss of friends and family has touched everyone. Every check of the phone bears some reminder of the war.”
This New Year, we ask you to join us in praying for these needs:
- Pray for the future of theological education in Ukraine: for the necessary material resources and for the equipping of people to lead and to carry it forward.
- Pray for our ScholarLeaders International partners involved in Ukraine, specifically Taras Dyatlik (Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia) and Evan Hunter (VP)
- Give thanks for the connections and collaborations that are being enabled through the new Alliance (IETA) and the Institutes for Excellence. Pray that they will be informative, encouraging, and fruitful.
- Pray for continued wisdom and strength for Church leaders and that they may bring God’s hope and peace to those whom they’re serving.
- Pray for comfort, peace, and security for everyone impacted by the ongoing conflict, that the power of God will soften hearts and mend brokenness.
Thank you for praying with us,
The reSource Team
Photo caption: Our ScholarLeaders International partner, Taras Dyatlik, with his family.
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