Book Ministry in Ukraine

Igor Semenov, Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine

2025 Report

We, Igor and Larisa Semenov, live and serve in the city of Zaporizhzhia—a major industrial center with a population of about 650,000 people, including more than 150,000 internally displaced persons. Twenty evangelical churches are active in the city, faithfully serving those in need. A significant part of our ministry takes place 40–60 km from the front line. Despite recurring missile strikes and destruction, life continues, and the Lord opens many doors for proclaiming the Gospel through the book ministry.

1. Supporting Churches and Pastors

One of our main priorities is the spiritual support of churches and ministers who serve in challenging conditions. Every Sunday, we visit a new church with a sermon and share Christian literature; we also support pastors by providing them with relevant, nourishing books. These resources strengthen faith and help believers share their hope in the Lord. 

Over eight months, we visited about 30 churches (some of them 2–3 times), distributed roughly 500 books, and provided spiritual-growth sets to 20 pastors. We have already heard sermons in which pastors drew on insights from these books.

Pastors’ feedback

Hennadiy, pastor in Zaporizhzhia: “Your books help me find new thoughts and feed the church. I especially value the works of John Piper and Paul David Tripp—their writing is simple, Christ-centered, sincere, and devoted. I learn a lot from them.”

Anatoliy, pastor of a rural church: “Your ministry brings new life to our church. I am very grateful for the books. When preparing sermons, I am especially encouraged by Puritan literature, resources on pastoral/soul care, The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions (ed. Arthur Bennett), and Letters of John Newton (John Newton). You provide invaluable help! May the Lord keep you!”

2. Serving Displaced People and Those Affected by the War

For three and a half years we have been serving displaced people and others deeply affected by the war. Each month, we meet with around 160 individuals – often people who have lost their homes and hope, and who live in despair. Books about Christ’s suffering and about walking with God through trials help them endure and find meaning and purpose. Two resources have been especially helpful: Suffering Is Never for Nothing (Elisabeth Elliot) and Suffering: Gospel Hope When Life Doesn’t Make Sense (Paul David Tripp).

One woman’s story

Svitlana, a displaced woman from Zaporizhzhia region, raised five children on her own before the war. After the full-scale invasion, three of her sons were mobilized: two went missing, and one was killed. She fell into deep despair. We surrounded her with love and support. Today, Svitlana has made a public confession of faith and is preparing for baptism.

A small church of about 40 members has formed at our center for displaced people. Many more come seeking comfort. This year, five people are preparing for baptism. We walk with each of them, offering care, guidance on the path of salvation, and good books that nourish their faith.

3. Street Evangelism

Another important part of our ministry is preaching the Gospel on the streets. In today’s difficult situation in Ukraine, where the average pension is only $80–150, people gladly respond to food assistance and are open to hearing the Good News.

This year, we conducted 10 evangelistic outreaches. Approximately 800 people heard about Christ and received Bibles, Gospels, brochures, and our books. To keep this ministry organized, we compile lists of those in need, receive food supplies from the church, and hold meetings with residents near their homes. We ask for your prayers – that the Lord would grant us wisdom to preach the Gospel clearly and for people’s hearts to open and receive the truth.

4. Mission Trips and Conferences

Once a month, we travel to neighbouring regions to take part in youth and pastors’ conferences. In 2025 we attended three such conferences and distributed about 400 books. Yulia, who attended a youth conference, wrote afterwards, “Reading War of Words: Getting to the Heart of Your Communication Struggles by Paul David Tripp opened my eyes to how I misuse the gift God has given me – my words. It reminded me of their power: words can build up or tear down.”

Personal Note

This year our family faced a severe trial. Larisa was hospitalized and, for several hours, hovered between life and death. The Lord was gracious – He spared her life and renewed our strength for continued service to Him and to people.

With Grateful Hearts

Dear friends, thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for your love, support, and prayers. This ministry does not happen by our hands alone. You are an inseparable part of it. Every book given, every sermon preached, every heart that turns to the Lord - this is also your participation. We truly do this together with you; your generous support makes you co-laborers in all this work. We pray for you and long to continue serving side by side.

Theological books for a pastor