Faith Under Fire: The Fate of Churches in Occupied Ukraine

In the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, a silent yet profound tragedy is unfolding within the church. Russian occupation authorities are actively persecuting Protestant communities — both for their faith and their Ukrainian identity.

Pastors and church leaders are subjected to searches, interrogations, and detentions. Bibles are confiscated. Worship services are banned. The harshest treatment is reserved for those who openly support Ukraine or pray for victory and justice. Many congregations have been forced underground. Believers gather in forests, apartments, and basements — anywhere there is still a chance to pray together.

According to human rights watchdog ZMINA, as of January 10, 2025, at least 67 ministers from various Ukrainian churches and religious organizations have been killed by Russian occupying forces since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Many places of worship have been seized and repurposed. Churches are now being used as “cultural centers,” storage facilities, and in some cases, military barracks. Crosses are removed from buildings. The name of God is erased from the walls. In spaces once sanctified by prayer, one now hears the echo of commands and propaganda.

Before the war, cities like Melitopol were known for their religious and cultural diversity. Evangelical, Baptist, and Pentecostal communities worshipped openly, often engaging in social outreach and youth work. Now, these very churches are treated as enemies of the regime — seen as too Western, too independent, and too resistant to state control.

“Protestants especially targeted… violent interrogations, forced expulsions, imprisonment, even executions.” — Time Magazine, 2023

Yet, despite threats, many believers continue to meet secretly, pray, and support one another. For them, faith has become not just a private conviction, but a form of resistance.

🎥 “No God but Theirs” – The Kyiv Independent

Investigates the persecution of Protestant communities in occupied Melitopol. Churches were not just places of worship, but symbols of moral resilience. The film uncovers the crackdown on Christians who refused to comply with the Russian military administration.

🎥 “A Faith Under Siege” – A powerful believer’s perspective

This film offers first-hand testimonies about what is happening to Christian communities in the war zone, calling the international church to wake up, pray, and act.

Some pastors and leaders were forced to flee abroad and, due to documents issued by so-called “DPR” or “LPR” authorities, are now unable to return to Ukraine. This exile was not a choice — it was a necessity. And yet, even from afar, they remain part of our body, our memory, and our mission.

Despite it all, faith endures. God is stronger than any occupation, stronger than fear or sorrow. For years, Ukrainian believers in the occupied territories have shown remarkable courage. They cling to the hope that “does not put us to shame” (Romans 5:5) and remain a light in the darkest of places.

The Church suffers silently — but it does not remain silent in its faithfulness to Christ.

“They strike deliberately… religious buildings are mainly not located near military facilities.” — Ruslan Khalikov, Religion on Fire

Even in the darkest valleys, the Church continues to shine. But the cost of that light is growing. Let us not look away.