| Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, The violence in Ukraine continues. Those in Ukraine and those fleeing to neighboring countries face great need. Our Office of International Mission — especially through our Eurasia region and the Rev. James Krikava, the Synod’s associate executive director of Eurasia and Asia Operations — is working with partner churches, missionaries and others in Europe to help care for those fleeing Ukraine. Krikava has been working with Bishop Serge Maschewski of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ukraine (ELCU) to assist the people of the ELCU who remain in Ukraine, including pastors who continue to care for people. Please encourage your congregations to pray for Ukraine. You can also share with them the following story, which includes opportunities for giving to this necessary work. As we repent and join together in meditation about our Savior’s precious death and resurrection, we also pray for and care for all those for whom Christ died and rose. Blessings on your Lent, Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison President The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod |