Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I would like to share some updates with you regarding the last two months.
As you know, my family remains in Germany. We are attending a local church in Leipzig, which is currently small in size. The congregation consists of several missionary families from the United States, several local families, a few families from Venezuela, a woman from Kyrgyzstan, and a few families from Ukraine. It is an interesting and diverse group of people, and we are working together to build understanding. Our services are conducted in German, but we usually communicate in English afterward, which helps bridge the language gap. We are thankful to God for placing us in this safe and blessed environment.
In Ukraine, the work of the Bible Institute continues. This year, we have four full-time students, and there are also a few who join courses as guest listeners. The students have already completed preparatory courses led by Sasha Ratkevich, followed by a course on Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther, taught by Denton Lendon. Recently, they finished studying the Minor Prophets (Part 2), which I had the privilege of teaching. Next week, they will start a course titled "Introduction to Greek," which will be taught by Terry Harman. The students are working hard and submitting their assignments on time.
Unfortunately, the war in Ukraine continues. Almost every day, missile attacks occur across the entire country. Russia is using missiles, Iranian-made Shahed drones, and their own kamikaze drones. There is no truly safe place in Ukraine, as missile strikes happen even in areas far from the frontlines. Russian forces continue to advance in several regions, with partial or full success in certain areas.
Over the past two months, many Christians have been mobilized, and this is an ongoing concern that requires our constant prayers.
May God keep you safe.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me.
With love in Christ,
Your brother, Denis Sopelnik