From classroom to combat zone in Ukraine

Life can take unexpected turns. You might be planning your future, envisioning a successful career, personal growth, and a peaceful life pursuing your passions. Then suddenly, you’re jolted awake by air raid sirens and explosions, only to learn that enemy forces are invading your country from all directions.

This was the stark reality that Ukrainians faced on February 24, 2022, a day that divided their lives into ‘before’ and ‘after.’ Prior to Russia’s full-scale invasion, Diana Havryliuk (Pictured above on the right) was living in Europe, pursuing a Masters’ degree in Education. Her aspirations centred on teaching foreign languages, literature, and history. She also lent her linguistic skills to HART, working as a remote translator. However, as war engulfed her homeland and reports of civilian and military suffering reached her, Havryliuk felt a divine calling to serve those in need at the front lines. Thus, with a brave spirit and unwavering determination, she returned to Ukraine and set out to make a difference in the lives of those impacted by the war.

Throughout the war, Havryliuk has traveled to the war zone in eastern Ukraine many times, bringing hope and Christ’s love to areas of profound suffering and destruction. She actively organizes fundraising efforts to support the Ukrainian military and consistently visits soldiers at their deployment sites, delivering critical supplies including medicines, food, and other essential items. Havryliuk uses her own car to evacuate civilians from places that are under constant enemy bombardment. She also works alongside chaplain teams, bringing hope and the light of the Gospel and Christ’s love to soldiers in high-risk frontline locations and to the wounded in military hospitals. Additionally, she assists dental professionals providing oral care to service members.

When asked about her motivation to serve in eastern Ukraine, Havryliuk explains, “Fighting for my country is my duty as a Ukrainian woman. Fighting for people is my duty as a Christian. Helping the military and civilians suffering from the war is nothing more than fulfilling my God-given responsibilities, and in serving these people, I can bring hope and light into their lives.” Reflecting on her initial journeys to the war zones, Havryliuk describes it as a profound learning experience. “My inexperience often led to challenging situations, but God mercifully saved my life. In Ukrainian, we have a vivid expression for fear: ‘My heart is in my heels.’ This phrase perfectly captures the sensation I’ve felt countless times – my heart seemingly leaping from its place and racing through my body to hide in my heel to cower in a corner somewhere.

“In the combat zone, the constant threat to life makes fear an ever-present companion. However, mastering this fear is perhaps the most crucial skill to develop. I’ve lost count of my trips to the front lines, but they number in the dozens. Each journey reinforces the importance of courage in the face of danger.”

Reflecting on the challenges she faces, Havryliuk puts her experiences into perspective. She acknowledges that her hardships pale in comparison to those endured by soldiers on the front lines. For her, the typical difficulties involve sleep deprivation or the ability to take a shower. However, she emphasizes that the most profound challenge lies in the emotional realm. The constant exposure to loss and death takes a significant toll. As she explains, “The greatest difficulty is confronting the reality of casualties. Our military personnel risk their lives daily for our safety, and tragically, not all survive. We’re not dealing with isolated incidents, but multiple losses simultaneously. Many people die, and it hurts every time. Adapting to this harsh reality is a slow and difficult process.”

Havryliuk identifies evacuation as a critical need for local residents in conflict zones. However, she notes there is a reluctance among many to leave, despite available resources. “The majority of frontline residents are elderly people who do not want to abandon their lifelong homes and belongings,” Havryliuk explains. “They prefer to live out their lives in the hell of war rather than face the challenges of relocation in their old age. It is difficult to blame them. For them, the choice is between bad and worse, and it is up to them to judge which is the better option.” Regarding military needs, Havryliuk emphasizes the importance of tactical medical supplies and winter gear to keep soldiers warm during cold months.

Havryliuk eloquently expresses the Church’s vital role in times of darkness: “The Church serves as a beacon of light, and that light must be where there is darkness in order to shine. There’s no need to illuminate already bright places – it would be a misuse of the Church’s vast resources. In addressing the war’s aftermath, churches should prioritize developing ministries focused on the holistic recovery of war victims – encompassing their psychological, spiritual, and mental well-being.

The journey of psychological healing is linked to the restoration of the soul. And who better than Christians who are uniquely positioned for this task, as we have a direct connection to the Creator of the soul itself!”

Diana Havryliuk strongly believes in Ukraine’s victory though she acknowledges that the conflict may persist for some time. Nevertheless, her desire is to continue to serve God, even if it means pursuing a new career path. “I want to be involved in the psychological healing of my fellow Ukrainians,” she explains. “To achieve this, I’ve completely shifted my focus and enrolled in masters’ programs in both Christian counselling and psychology. I recognize that Ukraine will have a critical need for Christian mental health professionals, and I’m preparing myself for this new role.”

Please keep Diana Havryliuk in your prayers throughout this war and as she pursues her new calling in Christian counselling.

Hart.ca