A Russian drone strike on an evangelical church in Kyiv has killed a father and his five-year-old daughter, who were staying in accommodation provided for those fleeing the war in eastern Ukraine.
Earlier this week, Emmanuil Church posted on Instagram that two Russian guided missiles struck the church, located on the outskirts of the capital. The first drone exploded in the air, damaging the church’s roof and causing destruction to the walls, vehicles, and surrounding area.
Facebook: Emmanuil Church
A second drone dropped a bomb near a temporary shelter used by the church for displaced families. "During the explosion, the father of the family and his daughter were killed," L.B., who leads a Christian children’s ministry in Ukraine, told Evangelical Focus. "The mother survived only because the blast threw her several metres away from the house." She was found 50 metres away and later treated in hospital.
The family, from Orikhiv, had been displaced due to attacks on their home and business. They had recently reunited in Kyiv, where the father continued his humanitarian and church work.
Emmanuil Church’s leadership expressed their grief, writing: "Our church has suffered a terrible tragedy" and quoting Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." They affirmed their belief that "love is stronger than death".
The church added: “We know God has not forsaken us. He is near even in this darkness. We believe that love is stronger than death, and our church will be reborn as a symbol of faith, hope, and steadfastness. It's time to shine for the Church of Jesus Christ!”
On their website, the church has shared details for those who wish to help rebuild the premises.