The Eastern European Mission (EEM), a Texas-based nonprofit founded in the 1960s to distribute Bibles within the Soviet Union, remains dedicated to its mission more than half a century later.
As the war in Ukraine disrupts lives, EEM is in action, printing and distributing Bibles alongside resources centered on the Gospel, all in the native languages of Eastern Europeans.
The organization has ambitious plans for 2024, aiming to provide nearly one million Bibles and related materials in 30 countries and 20 different languages.
Growing Demand for Spiritual Resources
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has exacerbated the plight of millions, particularly affecting displaced families who have sought refuge in nations like Poland, Hungary, and Moldova.
Children, in particular, bear the brunt of the crisis, facing the harsh realities of a world at war.
Even before the violence escalated in February 2022, EEM was active in distributing Bibles within Ukraine.
Recently, however, the organization has reported an unprecedented increase in requests for Ukrainian Bibles from those uprooted by the conflict.
This surge underscores the resilience of faith amidst adversity.
Hope Amidst Adversity
Dirk Smith, EEM’s Vice President, spoke about the complex relationship between human suffering and divine purpose.
He noted that while the war originates from deep-seated evil, many believe that God can manifest hope and strength through such turbulent times.
As the conflict rages on, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has documented around 6.8 million Ukrainians as refugees, with nearly 4 million still displaced within their homeland as of November 2024.
Smith observed that the demand for Bibles has notably risen during this chaos, suggesting that many Ukrainians are turning to spirituality in search of solace.
He explained that many believers are traveling alongside those who don’t share their faith.
The stark contrast in how believers cope with the turmoil often piques the curiosity of non-believers, prompting them to ask about the source of their peace.
This trend creates a unique opportunity for believers to share their faith and the message of Jesus Christ.
Collaborative Efforts for Distribution
EEM continues its work amidst the ongoing warfare, operating out of Kyiv and Western Ukraine.
Although they have had to adapt their supply chain, redirecting efforts through neighboring countries such as Poland and Moldova, Smith said their response has remained largely unimpeded thus far.
Collaboration is key for EEM, which works with various NGOs, local ministries, and churches led by Ukrainian nationals.
Smith highlighted how, as missile strikes occur, several ministries reach out for additional Bibles, revealing an urgent need for spiritual nourishment during these turbulent times.
The unprecedented demand for Bibles amid conflict serves as a powerful reminder of the impact Scripture can have in the lives of individuals, according to Smith.
He emphasized the importance of making these resources available to those in need, drawing an analogy to the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13.
In this biblical story, Jesus compares responses to God’s word to seeds that fall on different types of soil: some thrive while others fail.
Smith believes their role is to spread these seeds of faith and witness the transformative power of God’s word at work in the lives of those who seek it.
Source: Christianpost
