ANOTHER SMALL STORY IN A BIG WAR
No story is truly insignificant in the context of this devastating war. Each one represents the human spirit’s resilience, determination to survive, and willingness to support one another in the face of unimaginable hardship. These small stories, woven together, create a tapestry of hope, courage, and the unwavering resolve of the Ukrainian people to persevere.
But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run “ and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.
This cheerful young woman is Nadiya Ananchenko, whose life is marked by both suffering and a deep reliance on the Lord, whom she affectionately calls her “Heavenly Daddy.”
Her story is one among many, as countless families have been shattered by the war, losing fathers, brothers, sons, and husbands. War inevitably brings grief, destruction, pain, and tears.
On December 7, 2022, Nadiya and Vlad were married while he was undergoing military training, making her a military wife. Unfortunately, their time together was limited to her visits to his various postings.
In May 2023, Vlad managed to visit Rivne for a short, but lovely vacation, but tragically, on December 3, 2023, Nadiya received the devastating news of his death. The fact that Vlad’s body could not be recovered from the battlefield added to the indescribable pain, as officially he was reported missing, not deceased. Up until now, there has been no new information about Vlad, and he has not been given a proper burial.
Nadiya participates in special group meetings at her church in Rivne, which focus on supporting women like her through their journey of grief and recovery. This ministry is not about providing one-time assistance but about ongoing support.
Nadiya, was also expecting a baby girl, and facing the challenge of raising a child without her husband.
Although she is grateful to God for blessing her and Vlad with the pregnancy, Vlad never learned about this before his death.
Nadiya gave birth in July 2024, but she lacks a suitable home, currently living in a place without water, a bathroom, or basic amenities for a child.
Despite the high cost of housing, she trusts that the Lord will provide everything in due time.
Nadiya faces bureaucratic hurdles regarding Vlad and the compensation she is owed for her loss, and a new life ahead for her and her daughter. But despite all the difficulties, she continues to testify to God’s great love for her. She has not broken down, but rather is strengthened by her Daddy, who will take care of her future because she has Him and the support of her church community.
The Bible says “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself uncorrupted by the world.”
Your support for HART enables the local churches in Ukraine to share God’s love and care with women like Nadiya who have been impacted by this terrible war.
