To be sure, the administration of this service is not only making up for what is lacking among the saints, but it is also overflowing in many prayers of thanksgiving to God. By proving yourselves in this service, many people are glorifying God, as they see the obedience shown in your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity shown in your sharing with them and all people. (2 Corinthians 9:12,13 EHV)
In his letters, Apostle Paul often calls believers to helptheir brothers and sisters in Jerusalem. This church needed help from others, support in prayers and finances. This experience was not limited to the situation in Jerusalem – through centuries believers supported each other. Those who had more showed their solidarity with those, for whom these resources were vital.
This has not change. What is more – church solidarity is stronger than ever. Christians continue supporting each other. But pastors do not exclude themselves from this process. Thus,for many years,pastors of Evangelical Church in Germany have been expressing their solidarity with ministers in many countrieson different continents. By donating a portion of allowance they receive from the Church, they created a fund called “Evangelishe Partnerhilfe” (“Evangelical Partner Help”). This fund provides material help to ministers of various churches.
Once a year German Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ukraine receives support for pastors and deacons. There is a similar tradition in Ukraine of providing help to volunteers – people who serve free of charge. Thus, Ukrainian pastors show their solidarity with people, who serve in congregations of Ukraine by giving the largest portion of the finances to volunteers.
The Church Administration, diaconal workers, and everyone involved thank their brothers and sisters from Germany for their support!