Thankfully, the believers in Ukraine are not currently experiencing religious persecution and are blessed to assemble freely to worship. God is also blessing their congregations with growing numbers. They are thankful for the new church building at Dimca where there are twenty-eight converts.
 Other Ukrainian congregations are also experiencing spiritual growth with many converts and have numerous unconverted people attending their services. The glorious gospel of salvation is being proclaimed in this land where it was previously suppressed. Plans are also underway for a new church building at Cahor and remodeling at Mahala.
Economic conditions in Ukraine, however, continue to deteriorate even as many other European economies spiral downward. Unemployment is very high making it difficult for brethren to find work. As a result, many young families find it hard to provide for their needs. Some go to other countries to work and send money home to their families.
 The past winter was especially brutal (40 below zero for a month), but they are thankful all the believers survived. Much of the winter wheat failed due to the extreme cold and needed to be replanted with financial help from World Relief.
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As a result of the World Relief special collection last year, funds were made available to purchase much needed farm equipment, which is shared within congregations. Working with the brethren to come up with an equitable plan, funds were provided to purchase three new ear corn pickers and repair three old ones. However, due to the rising prices of quality used combine harvesters, funding was provided to repair rather than replace these aging machines used to harvest wheat and soybeans.
 They also requested funds to buy a new corn planter and a used corn head for a combine. This equipment, provided through your donations, enables them to grow their own food, raise cash crops, and also raise livestock.
They have requested their sincere appreciation be expressed to the brethren in the US for their generous support.
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In Romania, the economic situation for many believers also continues to worsen. A growing majority there are elderly for whom pensions of approximately $100/month are inadequate to provide even the basic needs of life. The products they need to buy cost as much as they would here in the US and the taxes are very high.
 They deeply appreciate the alms assistance and medical supplies from World Relief and hope that those willing to help will continue to assist as the Lord provides. World Relief continues to provide monthly food packages which are helpful to elderly and dependent believers in Romania, along with numerous small animal projects and self-help projects.
Clothing Distribution
Clothing distribution provides assistance to believers across Eastern Europe, with the greatest need being that of children's clothing and for elderly brethren. The latest sea container of clothing procured in the USA at discount prices and packed at Rittman was recently shipped. There was much joy among the brethren, young and old, as they worked together to restock the clothing distribution facility.
Renovation Assistance
 A request has also been received for assistance in renovation of an old former church structure at Arad, Romania. Currently used for storage, this would provide needed fellowship space for meals and church-related activities.
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 Nazarene believers across Eastern Europe extend greetings to the brethren in the US and convey their great appreciation for the aid being provided through World Relief.
May God bless all for their loving generosity in supporting these needs. It truly does make a difference. If you feel led to support these aid efforts, contributions can be sent to:
AC World Relief
Eastern Europe Fund
16448 S US Hwy 231
Remington, IN 47977
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Just as the warmth of summer replaced a very difficult winter in Eastern Europe, Nazarene believers there rejoice as new converts grow roots of faith, and church construction progresses to make room for those who would believe and worship. Nonetheless, ongoing needs are evident as families struggle to provide.