In a harrowing experience for children attending a summer camp at the Ark Church in Dnipro, Ukraine, a nearby Russian missile strike brought fear and chaos to what was meant to be a time of fun and learning. The unsettling incident left over 100 children seeking refuge in a basement, a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict’s impact on innocent lives.
Missile Strike Near Summer Camp
The unsettling event occurred on June 24, 2025, the first day of the camp. According to Sergey Vivchar, a lay pastor at the Ark Church, the children were enjoying activities outside when the first explosion was heard. “We were shocked, and it was scary for many of the children,” Vivchar shared with The Christian Post. The explosions didn’t stop at one; four blasts were felt, with the fourth being alarmingly close to the church.
As a precaution, the children were quickly ushered into the church’s basement, which is typically used for Sunday School and can only comfortably hold 50 children. Despite its limited space, over 100 children sought shelter there for nearly 40 minutes. The situation was tense, as Vivchar recalled, “In the basement, we sat on the cold floor, pressed between walls and fear.”
Emotional Impact on Children
The aftermath of the explosions revealed the emotional toll on the children. Vivchar described the scene: some children clung to their siblings, others covered their ears, and a few silently called for their mothers. Vlad, a 13-year-old boy, clung to Vivchar’s hand, seeking comfort amid the chaos. The lay pastor provided solace through prayers and reassurances.
The disruption of mobile communications, a measure taken by the Ukrainian government to hinder missile navigation, only heightened the children’s anxiety as they were unable to contact their parents. “There were no loud games, no laughter, no summer,” Vivchar lamented, highlighting the stark reality faced by these young individuals who are growing up amidst war.
The Church’s Mission During Conflict
For three years, the Ark Church has strived to provide a sense of normalcy for children affected by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which began with the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Through games and Bible studies, the church aims to offer moments of peace and spiritual growth.
Despite the hardships, the resilience of the children shone through. Vivchar noted that the day after the incident, the children who had left the camp returned, some bringing friends. However, he acknowledged the war’s psychological impact, stating, “Many of them struggle with fear or show signs of PTSD.”
Growing Participation and Challenges
The Ark Church’s summer camp has seen increasing participation over the years, from 160 children in 2023 to over 200 this year. This growth reflects the community’s need for support and normalcy amid ongoing turmoil.
Vivchar highlighted individual cases, such as a 12-year-old girl who developed a fear of the dark due to the bombings, and Vlad’s struggle with constant fear. These stories illustrate the lasting effects of the conflict on young minds.
Despite the challenges, the Ark Church continues its mission, offering a safe space and a semblance of childhood for those affected. The resilience of the children and the dedication of the church provide a glimmer of hope in a difficult situation.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
