God has a plan for all our lives—a good plan, His best plan. This truth became clear as I spoke with Oleg and Tracy Opalnyk from the Brunswick Church.

Tracy moved to Russia in 1995. While working there for the General Conference auditing team, she met Oleg, fell in love, and married him in 1998. In 1999, the couple moved to the United States, eventually settling in Maine in 2002.

When the Ukrainian war broke out during the COVID-19 pandemic, Oleg felt a deep desire to help his fellow countrymen escape the conflict and find refuge. In April 2022, they began their outreach, helping individuals and families secure sponsors to come to the United States. The process starts with Oleg and Tracy arranging sponsors, followed by assistance in acquiring airfare for the journey to America. Once here, the families need furnished apartments, food, employment, and guidance on “how to live in the U.S.” classes.

Oleg, who owns a construction company, provides jobs for Ukrainian men, while their children enroll in local public or private schools. On September 7, the group took a significant step forward by voting to pursue becoming an official church plant, with Oleg serving as the leader. The first step in this process is getting established in the Northern New England Conference as a “mission group.” Since 2022, they have held Sabbath School in Ukrainian and now conduct a separate worship service in their own language.

The group has grown to 41 Adventist members, including 10 children. With additional community guests attending on special Sabbaths, their numbers often reach up to 60 people.

“Now I know why God sent me to Russia as a missionary,” Tracy reflected. “God had bigger plans in mind.” Pastor Steve and I are delighted that the Brunswick Church is the sponsoring church, helping this wonderful group of caring and energetic people get established. They continue to be involved in many activities as part of the Brunswick Church.