How faith restored a broken family in Ukraine
Through hardship and illness, a widowed father rediscovers faith and leads his family toward hope1st January 2026
A family shaken by loss and hardship
When Ivan married and had children, he dreamed of a home filled with love, support, and faith. He had grown up in church and longed to lead his family according to the Bible. But life took a painful turn.
His wife struggled with alcohol, their relationship broke down, and after developing cancer, she passed away. Grief overwhelmed Ivan. In his despair, he drifted from God and began drinking, leaving his children without the care they needed.
Living in a remote village in Sarny, Ukraine, Ivan now raises his three children alone in the same small apartment he grew up in—without running water or gas.
Then his health collapsed. Diagnosed with kidney failure and heart disease, he faced a new crisis that threatened everything.
A turning point of faith and support
When Ivan was hospitalized, Mission Without Borders began visiting him. Through regular prayers, conversations, and practical help, something began to change.
In the midst of weakness, Ivan rediscovered faith. He chose to follow Jesus and lead his children in a new direction.
His children also encountered God’s love through the Mission’s summer camps and chose to give their lives to Christ. Today, the family worships together—something Ivan once only dreamed of.
“The regular visits and conversations with the Mission staff have been incredibly supportive and have helped me to be renewed and strengthened in God.”Ivan
Despite ongoing dialysis treatment far from home, Ivan has experienced God’s provision in powerful ways, seeing prayers answered again and again.
Walking together in hope and new life
What was once a family marked by grief and distance is now growing in unity, love, and faith. Ivan is learning to be the father his children need, guided by biblical wisdom and supported by caring relationships.
“My hope is to be strong for my children… My body is weak, but my spirit is strong.”
Through faithful support, Mission Without Borders is walking alongside this family—helping them rebuild not just their circumstances, but their lives in Christ.
You can help families like Ivan’s find hope and stability.
By joining our Family Sponsorship Programme, you can walk alongside a family in need—offering practical care, encouragement, and the message of God’s love.
