World Missions

"Nazarenes have also mobilized to help our Ukrainian family after their country was invaded in February 2022. During the past 12 months, about 15 million Ukrainians have been displaced within the country and across Europe. Many of these refugees were welcomed by our churches in the neighboring countries of Poland, Moldova, Romania, and Hungary. Others who remained in the Ukraine have been sheltered and fed by our local churches.

"Through Nazarene Compassionate Ministries, 20 tons of food and hygiene supplies are sent every six weeks. These supplies allow five local churches to feed 1,000 families each, every month. Additional supplies were sent during the winter months, including generators, fuel, and firewood to provide warmth and allow for cooking. Some churches are also offering “power hours” where residents can come to charge their phones and other electronics during power outages. In December, 40 tons of winter clothing was sent and distributed through local churches.

"Jay and Teanna Sunberg, missionaries to the Central European Field in Eurasia, were at the heart of such global response and, while the numbers are massive and overwhelming, they summarize our compassionate spirit through the story of Sveta*, a Ukrainian refugee: "In a harrowing journey that involved an automobile breakdown, hospitality from strangers, and text messages spanning multiple countries and continents, Sveta finally found a place of refuge in Hungary. In 90 minutes, eight strangers communicated through a network representing four missional organizations across four countries and two continents. Sveta secured a place to stay in another country before she even reached the border. People of all backgrounds, skill sets, and ethnicities prioritized an act of love and welcome in the middle of a crisis." This is a reflection of the compassionate heart of the Nazarene family."

* Name changed