Pastor From Tulsa Helping People On Both Sides Of Russia-Ukraine Conflict

A Green Country native who has been a pastor in Russia for 30 years said he and his family do not plan to leave the country. Pastor Rick Renner said people on both sides of the Russia-Ukraine conflict need comfort, which he said his ministry is providing.

Renner said dozens of staff for Rick Renner Ministries work at the Tulsa office, while about 200 others work in the Slavic Region. Renner said his staff have received more than 70,000 emails from people asking for help.

"When we come near to God, God is open handed," said Renner.

From his Moscow office, Renner and his family have shared the gospel to hundreds of thousands of people around the world. He, his wife and their three sons moved from Tulsa to Russia in 1991, at the collapse of the Soviet Union.

"But right now is unlike any previous time because of this barrage of sanctions that have come against Russia," explained Renner.

Renner said some of his staff in Kyiv have fled and are working remotely. Others are working with a network of churches and volunteers to pass out relief boxes with food, a blanket, personal care items and a Bible.

Renner said they are also giving hot meals and clothes to refugees.

"This is our opportunity to be the hand of God in the lives of those that are suffering," said Renner. The Renner family said they will not pick a side.

"We know people on both sides of this event that are very, very shaken, and we believe it is our responsibility to bring comfort," said Renner.

One of the Renner sons, Joel Renner, oversees the Tulsa office from Russia, but he is in Tulsa right now working with staff, in case there are any interruptions because of sanctions.

The Renners said they worry about Internet interruptions and other sanctions but will keep the faith.

"Hard times can be really good times, just depends on your attitude, and we're going to make the best of it," said Renner.

Renner said a $60 donation can help staff and volunteers meet the physical and spiritual needs of someone displaced.

You can donate here: https://renner.org/emergency-situation/