Derek and Julie have worked in the Baltic and the Slavic nations as missionaries for several years. Presently, they are working with the Slavic Baptist Institute in Ukraine where Derek is the head of school. Derek also pastors a church in Kiev area where an ORH intern attends.
Derek’s ministry in Ukraine has made it possible for ORH to work in a men’s center, conduct an evangelistic medical clinic, send support to a family feeding and caring for children, and help an ORH intern attend medical school in Kiev.
In addition, Derek maintains a direct ministry to the Laotian people which has provided opportunities for ORH to minister to churches there. Derek and Julie have always been great blessings to ORH through their many avenues of ministry.
Derek is now working through their foundation in Kiev to help those who are impacted by the Russian invasion. Please read the message which he sent.
"Dear ORH! As you've seen in the news and can imagine, the humanitarian needs in Ukraine will be great, but so is the opportunity to share both the truth and love of the gospel. We are receiving constant communications from Ukraine. Things are very chaotic. Some are writing from bomb shelters, others while fleeing to the west, others while waiting in line at the border with Poland, others from their homes, while hearing bombs in the distance. Churches that can still gather are praying every evening at 8 pm for peace and God's protection.
We believe that through our charitable fund we can meet physical needs of people, while sharing with them the love and truth of the gospel. If ORH would like to partner with us, we see some great needs for food and clothing. Our charitable fund director, Sergei, is on the ground in Western Ukraine and prepared to make a difference.
Below is an estimated budget of how the funds would be used:
1) Food - $3,500, 2) Medical Needs - $500, 3) Clothing - $1,000, 4) Sergei - $1,000 These funds would help with gas to distribute and to help care for his family. For His glory in Ukraine 🇺🇦, Derek Thomas”
ORH will send $6000.00 to Derek for work during the crisis. Pray always for the safety of his partners in the ministry, Bible college students, and members of his church. They are located in the path of the advancing Russian war machine.
