Ukrainian military chaplains are training in the UK alongside British Army chaplains. Some have been serving on the front lines since 2014. Others signed up more recently.
The chaplains are heading to the front lines, army hospitals, and training camps to give pastoral care and spiritual guidance to Ukraine’s soldiers. Training in the UK is giving them planning tools, pastoral resources, and hands-on experience. The aim is to help them take good care of themselves and others when they return to Ukraine.
Right now, Ukraine’s political leaders are on the global stage, making incredibly difficult decisions. Military chaplains are serving quietly in the background. They offer vital support to soldiers of all faiths and none, pointing them to hope and to Jesus.
Jason Lane, Innovista’s International Director, met some of these chaplains at a UK military base. After a training session with them, he walked away feeling he had learned the most.
Their motto, sewn into their uniforms, means: “To be near.” Despite their surroundings, they carry no weapons. Instead, they know the importance of drawing near and walking alongside fellow soldiers. In life and death moments, they offer wisdom, care, and the hope of Jesus.
Ukraine’s military chaplains embody Christ’s call — standing with those who suffer, and bringing light into darkness.
As the war continues, Ukraine needs more leaders like them. Many Christian leaders, both near and far from the front lines, still face immense challenges. Yet, they choose to stay. They serve their communities.
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Innovista identifies, equips and develops Christian leaders working in challenging locations. Every year, we train and mentor around 1,500 leaders in Britain, Ireland, Moldova, Ukraine, Central Asia and beyond. We help leaders transform people and communities through churches, ministries and enterprises. Inspired by Jesus, we equip leaders to build a better world.
