Pastor Killed in Russian Strike on Ukrainian Church During Easter Gathering

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – A pastor was killed and several worshippers seriously wounded after a church in Ukraine was struck during an Easter gathering, highlighting the growing toll on Christian communities amid the ongoing war.

Minister Ruslan Utyuzh was among those killed in the attack, leaving behind his wife and two children. According to reports cited by Baptist Standard, several church leaders were inside the building at the time, and seven or eight people sustained serious injuries. The congregation, which had served more than 300 believers, lost not only a place of worship but a central hub of spiritual life.

Former Ukrainian parliament member Pavel Unguryan described the strike as a direct assault on peaceful worshippers and called for urgent prayer and global attention.

The attack is part of a wider pattern. Since the war began, more than 700 churches across Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed, and at least 58 pastors and priests have been killed. Many of these churches have also functioned as humanitarian centers, providing food, shelter, and hope during the crisis.

Mission Eurasia, which has close ties to the affected congregation, noted that churches serving their communities in times of hardship are often specifically targeted. The group continues to document religious persecution throughout the conflict.

Colby Barrett, producer of the documentary “A Faith Under Siege,” said the strike was likely deliberate, alleging the use of a Russian KAB-1500L precision-guided bomb. He explained that churches are being hit not only as physical structures but as lifelines of faith and support for the people.

Yet even in tragedy, faith persists. Barrett recounted a recent near-miss drone attack on a Kyiv megachurch filled with pastors. Despite the danger, services continued the next day, and 200 people came forward for baptism.

Hope for Revival

Amid the destruction, many Christian leaders in Ukraine are witnessing a deepening spiritual hunger. As buildings are lost, the Church itself is rising—marked by prayer, repentance, and renewed commitment.

What the enemy has meant for harm, many believe God is turning for good, as seeds of revival begin to emerge even in the midst of war.

Latest Worthy News