Onward Christian Soldiers

May 24, 2022

"Onward Christian Soldiers"  -- This hymn has been around for over 150 years, and most of us can hum it right now. In fact, it might already be stuck in your head, and probably will be all day. That’s ok. Let it be a reminder of the hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers defending their country for the 89^th day of war. We continue to pray for these brave souls and equip them with what we can. Prayers for peace, First Aid Kits, food, medical supplies, military clothing, and protective gear are the most requested items – in that order.

What a Relief!

It really is gratifying (as well as a relief!) to see the donated items we have received in our office in Atlanta, in a photo sent to us by one of our volunteers. We know that our duffle bags made it! And the items packed tightly inside are serving their intended purpose. Rest assured that the items from our Amazon Wish List, or the pawn shop bullet-proof vest you donated, have actually made it all the way to Ukraine! These soldiers (as well as the kids we meet on the way to Donetsk) really appreciate the love and care you are giving them from afar. Our volunteers take the opportunity to pray with these men, women, and children – every single prayer is appreciated and wanted.

The Need Continues

From the start of the war, only 50% of the Ukrainian Army has been supplied with bulletproof vests, helmets, and protective knee pads. After several foreign governments started to supply these items, the percentage has still only gone up to a total of 57%. Our team of volunteers has done an excellent job of finding many of these items for sale in Ukraine, and we continue to order protective equipment for the defenders who request it. Most of the soldiers reach out to one of our volunteers – many are from our partner churches or are our former orphan graduates. So, the need continues. Please help us meet that need. It can be physically and spiritually lifesaving. “Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war. With the cross of Jesus, going on before!”

Onward Christian Soldiers

By Sabine Baring-Gould (words, 1865) and Arthur Sullivan (music, 1872) 1 Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, With the cross of Jesus, going on before! Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe; Forward into battle, see his banner go! Refrain: Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war, With the cross of Jesus, going on before! 2 At the sign of triumph, Satan's host doth flee; On, then, Christian soldiers, on to victory! Hell's foundations quiver at the shout of praise; Brothers, lift your voices, loud your anthems raise! [Refrain] 3 Like a mighty army, moves the church of God; Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod; We are not divided; all one body we, One in hope and doctrine, one in charity. [Refrain] 4 Onward, then, ye people, join our happy throng, Blend with ours your voices in the triumph song; Glory, laud, and honor, unto Christ the King; This thro' countless ages men and angels sing. [Refrain]

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