Russians and Ukrainians may be at war in Europe, but in the U.S. they’re forging strong friendships.
At the Russian-speaking Lighthouse Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia, people who immigrated years ago from the former USSR were waiting with open arms to welcome Ukrainians who have fled the war zone.
Russians and Ukrainians worship together at the Lighthouse Church and pray together for an end to the war.
Lighthouse Church pastor Max Lisovskiy, a native of Russia, said his congregation has been helping to provide basic needs for new arrivals and helping them acclimate to a new country and culture.
‘Everything I need’
“This church gave me everything I need,” said Ukrainian Andrii Bradarskyi, who arrived in metro Atlanta in June. “I have a car. I have a place to live. I even have financial support.”
In the latest show of affection, the congregation arranged for free dental care for Ukrainians through the Georgia Baptist Mission Board’s Mobile Health Ministry.
A large RV, retrofitted with dental chairs and equipment, rolled into the parking lot outside the church Aug. 26 for a two-day stop. Dentists and hygienists who serve aboard the dental van are equipped to do a wide array of exams and procedures.
Lisovskiy said his congregation is now about 60% Ukrainian, with the remainder from other Russian-speaking countries.
Those who have been in the U.S. the longest come alongside newcomers to help them with a litany of needs. The church also is providing English as a second language classes for the Ukrainians.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Roger Alford and originally published by The Christian Index.
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