While the war in Ukraine has seen many come back from the frontlines not only traumatized but also addicted to drugs, a coffee house ministry is helping them to not only live a life free from substance abuse, but is also discipling them into Christian leadership.
GNA reporter Peter Wooding saw the impact of this first hand at their Kyiv coffee house.
Source: www.mercyprojects.org
SCRIPT:
A major challenge on society in Ukraine is an escalation of drug addiction including among those dealing with the trauma of serving on the frontlines of the war.
In response Christian run coffee houses and rehabilitation centers across the country are seeing many addicts set on a path to recovery.
Each week this Teen Challenge coffee house in Kyiv gathers people for a time of worship, testimonies and teaching and fellowship.
Thanks to support from Christian charity Mercy Projects Igor Glushko is able to coordinate this center. And having overcome substance abuse in his own life he shares the transformation he sees in those he helps: CLIP
For me it’s a huge blessing when I can see how their life changed. I personally brought them to rehabilitation and now they serve here. Those who went through rehabilitation and come to our coffee house their eyes are now shining brightly because their lives have been changed.
Artem who is also now a Teen Challenge ministry leader was set free from 13 years of cocaine addiction. But now he also regularly shares his testimony, preaches and helps others.
And Igor continues to dedicate his life to seeing many more people not only live a life free from addiction but also leading others to become disciples of Christ.
Peter Wooding reporting for the Global News Alliance in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Story Provided By:
Peter Wooding – GNA London Bureau Chief
Producing Organization
Teen Challenge and Mercy Projects – www.mercyprojects.org
Recording Location
Kyiv, Ukraine
Reporter / Producer
Peter Wooding
Organization featured in this Story
Teen Challenge and Mercy Projects – www.mercyprojects.org
People Interviewed and their Titles
Igor Glushko – Teen Challenge Kyiv, Ukraine
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