December Team Update
Earlier in December, a Renewal Initiative team returned to Ukraine with a shared purpose: to care for those who care for others — and to create space for hope in the midst of exhaustion, grief, and ongoing war.
Who Went
This trip brought together a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, and mental health professionals, each offering their expertise while remaining attentive to the human stories behind the outward needs.
Impact
Pastors & Chaplains – Kyiv
We hosted a dinner and equipping gathering for pastors and chaplains in Kyiv. Many of these leaders have been serving continuously since the earliest days of the invasion. The evening was intentionally unhurried, creating space to listen, encourage, and remind them they are not alone.
“I can’t imagine how difficult it is to continue pointing people toward Jesus during a time when so many feel abandoned and do not expect to live another day.” — Erin, team member
Military Recovery Units
Our team visited both physical and psychological military recovery centers, spending time with wounded soldiers and the staff who support them daily. Rather than rushing in with solutions, our focus was presence: listening, learning, and caring for those who rarely pause to be cared for themselves.
Pop-Up Medical Clinic – Kharkiv
Outside of Kharkiv, the team supported a pop-up medical clinic serving communities with limited access to consistent care. These encounters addressed immediate needs while also strengthening relationships that will shape future support and collaboration.
“Using my skills alongside such a passionate team to provide aid in a country so desperately in need of hope has been nothing short of transformative.” — Sarah, team member
Children & Youth – Dnipro
In Dnipro, we spent time with children and youth who are growing up amid disruption and uncertainty. Moments of play, conversation, and simple joy carried a deeper message: you are seen, and your future still matters.
Critical Medical Supplies Donated
Along the way, we distributed urgently needed medical supplies that will continue serving long after our team returned home.
Reflections from the Team
Sarah reflected on how each trip deepens both resolve and humility:
“These missions are often physically and mentally challenging, but they consistently strengthen my desire to be part of this life-changing work—bringing help and hope where it’s most needed.”
Erin described the trip as bittersweet—a tension Ukrainians live with daily:
“One moment there is grief and destruction, the next there is beauty, kindness, and life continuing forward. Listening felt like the only faithful response in many moments.”
Why This Matters
This trip was not about checking off a list of accomplishments. It was about faithful presence, mutual dignity, and strengthening those who continue to stand on the front lines: medically, spiritually, and emotionally.
Thank you for standing with the Renewal Initiative. Your support makes these moments possible, and the impact continues far beyond what can be captured in words or images.
