Poland: Baptist church hosts hundreds of Ukraine refugees, “we have to help”

by Karen Faulkner, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – A Baptist Church in Chelm, Poland has removed its pews and pulpit and set up beds for hundreds of Ukrainian refugees fleeing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of their country next door, CBN News reports.

Polish Pastor Henryk Skrzypkowsurch and his congregation of Chelm Baptist Church have been housing more than 200 refugees a day since the invasion began on February 24.

The father of seven biological children and nine foster children, three of whom have Down syndrome, Skrzypkowsurch told Faith Wire that his church is one of around 100 Baptist churches in Poland, many of whom are serving as a port of first call for Ukrainian refugees.

“I think this moment is a historical and spiritual moment,” Skrzypkowski said. “These historical problems — it was in hearts, in souls of people for many, many years. People have a problem forgiving one another. But this moment is the moment when God created a new situation between our nations. It’s a new future. Now we have unity — spiritual unity.” Concerning the need for prayer, the pastor added: “So we pray for Ukrainians. We pray for unity.”

Asked about the church’s decision to buy the mattresses, blankets, and other supplies needed for the refugees, Skrzypkowsurch said: “It was a step by faith. In war, we have to help Ukraine.”

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