Makariv Christian Church - Makariv, Ukraine
Makariv Christian Church, pastored by Maksym Mamakin, is located in the part of the Kyiv region that was occupied by Russian troops in 2022. The congregation is deeply grateful to the Lord for restoring peace to their town, bringing most members back home, and allowing all services to resume after the de-occupation of Makariv. They are deeply thankful to God and to HART, CSC and all supporters for their prayers, generosity, and care. Despite the ongoing war, shelling, air raids, and frequent power outages, the Lord continues to use the Makariv Christian Church to spread His Word and touch lives with His transforming power.
For many years, their main ministry has been free rehabilitation for people struggling with addiction. At present, they operate three men's houses and one women's house for rehabilitation, along with an adaptation house where those who have completed the program can stay and go through social reintegration. Most of the leaders and participants in these ministries are graduates of the rehabilitation program — people who once felt abandoned but whose lives were transformed by God's grace.
Children hold a special place in the life of the church. A vibrant Sunday school takes place during the main service, and it attracts not only children of church members but also many whose parents have not yet started attending.
Throughout the week, the church is alive with activity at their youth club, which hosts home group meetings, youth praise rehearsals, weekend gatherings, excursions, trips, and children's evangelistic events. During the summer, they organize a day evangelism camp for teenagers, providing a safe and joyful space for young people to learn about faith and friendship.
Social ministry is also an essential part of their service in God's field. They reach out through hospice ministry, prison ministry, and a feeding program at the train station — offering hope, prayer, and practical help to those in need.
The war in Ukraine has brought new challenges and new opportunities for service. Many displaced families with children and pensioners from the Donetsk region have settled in Makariv and nearby villages. The church actively supports them by providing firewood for heating, medicines, food, and household essentials. Adults and children alike attend meetings, Sunday school, and youth programs, and many have already joined various church ministries.
Amid all these trials, God continues to bless the Makariv community. Even during wartime, they have been able to begin building a new House of Prayer, which they hope to move into next year. In the new building, they plan to launch additional ministries — a medical office and a children's day centre — to reach even more children, youth, and adults with the love of Christ.
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