We have been Blessed… Now we can be a Blessing!

It has been inspiring to watch our Lutheran church community in Queensland embrace Walk My Way Ukraine and to hear why people are choosing to get involved.

This Saturday (11 May) close to 700 walkers will step out in support of displaced Ukrainian children and their families.

Lutherans are travelling from as far as Gladstone, Albury and Adelaide, joining with local walkers of all ages… teachers, pastors, and students… on scooters, in wheelchairs, pushed in prams and some even being dragged by their fur babies.

All inspired by the opportunity to make a practical difference for children and families who have lost everything… to provide emergency food, water and shelter, to rebuild classrooms so children can return to school and to rebuild apartments so that families have a warm place to call home.

Young Zoe will be walking with her big sister Maddie

One of the youngest to get involved is Zoe, who will be walking with her big sister Maddie and her parents. She says, “I’m walking to help Ukraine by raising money to help them rebuild”, while Maddie shares, “We are walking to help Ukraine get through the war that they are in and rebuild schools houses and churches we are also helping the children and families to find them a home for them to live in.”

Chaplain Ben Lyons

For Ben Lyons, School Chaplain at St Peters Lutheran College, Springfield, Walk My Way is a great opportunity to show faith in action. “Our school exists to grow compassionate, internationally minded students who believe that they can make a real difference in this world. Walk My Way Ukraine is putting that belief into action for those impacted by the war in Ukraine!”

The “Hazeldean Cousins”, training in Murgon

This sentiment is echoed by Naomi Kotzur, a teacher at St John’s Lutheran School, Kingaroy will be stepping out with her team of 12 “Hazeldean Cousins”… made up of 3 generations walking, aged 8-64 (with the 4th generation as a sponsor!)

“Walk My Way Ukraine gives our family an opportunity to come together, from around SE QLD, and show support for families in the Ukraine. We have been blessed, and now can be a blessing to others.” 

The LLL Strollers team in 2023, after completing their walk in Victor Harbor, SA.

Our wonderful partners in mission, the LLL will also be stepping out. Rhianan Strangways, LLL Marketing Manager shares, “The modest strides the LLL team aims to take this Saturday pales in comparison to the monumental resilience shown by the people of Ukraine. It’s our privilege to embark on this journey toward a brighter tomorrow, extending hope and support to those across the globe.”

LCAQD Bishop Mark Vainikka

Leading us off from the start line will be Bishop Mark Vainikka, who will run the 12.5km course. Mark says,

“I’m walking (running!) for Walk My Way Ukraine because I have met Ukrainian refugees in Europe and have seen the impact of displacement especially in the lives of the young.  

 I’m walking (running!) for Walk My Way Ukraine because what the children in Ukraine are experiencing, will stay with them for the rest of their lives. By participating in Walk My Way Ukraine I hope to have a small positive impact on their lives.’

 I’m walking (running!) for Walk My Way Ukraine because Jesus said “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”’ (Matt.19:14).”

It’s not too late to get involved. You too can step out to make a difference for a Ukrainian child displaced by conflict. 

You can register today for the 3km or 12.5km walk… at www.walkmywayukraine.org.au. If you can’t walk… come and stay at the community hub at QUT where walkers, supporters and visitors alike can enjoy Ukrainian food and cultural presentations from members of the Ukrainian Community of Queensland.

If you can’t be there on the day, another great way to get involved is by supporting others who can. You could sponsor Zoe, Ben, Naomi, Rhianan or Bishop Mark… OR you might prefer to support someone from your local church or school.

Regardless of how you are able to get involved with Walk My Way Ukraine, your generosity will make a practical difference for displaced Ukrainian children and their families – Thank you!

Aaron Glover
Community Engagement Manager – ALWS