Worshipping With the First United Methodist Church in Ukraine

On June 1, 2025, representatives from Arlene Campbell Humanitarian Foundation and the United Methodist Committee On Relief worshipped at the first Methodist church built in Ukraine with Oleg and Yuliya, the Superintendents for the country of Ukraine under the United Methodist Denomination. Oleg and Yuilya also run під заком, which means "Under the Castle." під заком is a United Methodist hotel and restaurant in Ukraine that provides lodging for internally displaced people from cities like Bakhmut and Mariupol.

The church representatives explained that the first Methodist church built in Ukraine was confiscated during the godless Soviet era and converted into a kindergarten. In the 1990s, the government of Ukraine returned the property to the United Methodist denomination in Ukraine. Likewise, the Under the Castle hotel and restaurant is the property of the United Methodist congregation. This is a center for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and families who are from cities that have been destroyed due to the conflict, such as Bakhmut and Mariupol. In total, there are 40 people staying at this location.

Through the generosity of our donors, ACHF provided a $500 donation to the Ministry of Oleg and Yuliya. This initial $500 USD donation will help buy firewood and other necessities so that they can continue their ministry.

We are grateful to Oleg and Yuliya for providing their hospitality to us, staying at their hotel for the displaced, as we explored ways that the Arlene Campbell Humanitarian Foundation can support their ministry.