BWA, EBF leaders receive Ukraine honours from President Zelenskyy 

Global Baptist leaders have been recognised by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for their support of Ukraine during the nation’s time of war

Baptist World Alliance (BWA) General Secretary Elijah Brown and European Baptist Federation (EBF) General Secretary Alan Donaldson were each presented with national honours in recognition of the Baptist community’s vital role in providing humanitarian aid and spiritual care to millions affected by the war.

The presentation took place as Ukraine marked the 34th anniversary of the restoration of its independence with an event attended by national leaders in Sophia Square in Kyiv on Sunday, 24 August.

During the ceremony, President Zelenskyy recognised the “contributions of Ukraine’s friends around the world.”

The BWA and EBF families have faithfully supported and served alongside the Baptist member union in Ukraine (All-Ukrainian Union of Associations of Evangelical Christian-Baptists) since the war began in 2022.

Working alongside Ukrainian Baptists, the global Baptist family has collectively helped more than 2 million people. This includes provision of temporary shelter, food, hygiene items, medical care, multipurpose cash assistance, psychosocial support, summer camps for children, and mobile kitchens to serve those near the front lines.




Elijah received the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, 5th Class, and while Alan received the Order of Merit, 3rd Class.

Alan described it as ‘an unexpected honour’, explaining it was ‘a recognition of the incredible global Baptist response coordinated by the European Baptist Federation but carried out by local Baptist churches in and around Ukraine.’

Elijah said, ‘It was a humbling experience to attend the ceremony and receive this honour on behalf of the Baptist World Alliance.

‘This recognition is a reflection of the tireless dedication and courageous service of Ukrainian Baptists on the front lines of ministry as well as the unwavering support of the entire global Baptist family.

‘To receive such an honour in the midst of war is also a poignant reminder that much remains to be done. May we all continue to work together for lasting and just peace in Ukraine and around the world.’

Alan added that he promised President Zelensky ‘the Baptist family will continue to pray for wisdom for him in all upcoming negotiations.’
 
The Independence Day ceremonies continued on Monday, August 25, with the 2nd National Prayer Breakfast hosted at the Mystetskyi Arsenal.

Drawing more than 1,200 attendees, the event included service members, civic leaders, family members of fallen heroes, volunteers, chaplains, and faith community representatives. Elijah and Alan were among 350 international guests from 50 countries with Elijah also serving as a speaker at the event.

Speaking of the importance of the prayer breakfast, Alan said, ‘Ukraine is a nation of beauty and brokenness. A nation that is fighting for many freedoms.

‘Among its diminishing population are many people of Christian faith who are seeking understanding of their circumstances and direction for how to live, speak, and share hope.

‘Many are grieving the loss of loved ones through displacement, abduction, or the loss of life. We meet victims of torture who testify to the destruction of places of worship, and the systemic violence experienced by believers in the occupied territories.

‘The National Prayer Breakfast was a moment in history where these stories were acknowledged, recorded, and grieved – where prayer was offered by people of all ages and a variety of nations who seek to stand in solidarity with Ukraine’s desire to live in freedom.’