OUR HISTORY
The Watrich's were missionaries at heart and God placed within them a love and compassion for Eastern Europe. The ministry began with the printing of many Christian publications in the Ukrainian language. These publications were a first for Ukraine and even today, are still in great demand in Ukraine and Russia. One of their major personal projects was the translation, printing and distribution of over one million, 48 page gospel booklets into Poland. Many other publications in Eastern Europe stand as testimony of their labours.
As the demand for literature in Eastern Europe increased, The Master’s Foundation was incorporated. From its inception the primary purpose was to be a channel of production of Scripture in various forms, including Bibles, Children’s/Youth Bibles, Christian literature, books, educational aids, study guides and Theological Educational material.
Since then Masters has gone on to provide over 175-40 foot containers of humanitarian aid, build two seminaries, initiate radio broadcasting, support orphanages, kids summer camps as well as participate in many forms of evangelism.
Henry & Stan early years. Since then, over 1.5 million Children's Bibles have been distributed.
Stan Watrich - "Well done, good and faithful servant"
December 23, 1940 - June 24, 2023
"Precious is the site of the Lord Is the death of His saints" Psalms 116:15
Stan was our beloved president and the co-founder of The Master’s Foundation, who for many years, gave tireless effort and dedication to the people of Ukraine. It isn’t possible to count the projects undertaken by The Master's Foundation under his leadership.
His cousin and co-founder, Henry Watrich recalled, “It was the late 1980's, we were returning home on a dilapidated Aeroflot flight when Stan, with tears in his eyes, turned to me and said: We must help them! I've realized my calling!” This was a call to ministry in Ukraine which Stan passionately pursued for next 40 years.
In one of his last correspondences, Stan stated: “It has been a 38-year journey of miracles that I had never dreamed of. I am ever grateful to God that he would take a country bumkin off a farm in Glendon, Alberta and place such an amazing calling on me to serve in Ukraine. I am leaving with indelible memories that will be cherished forever! My sincerest thanks to the board of Masters for all their support and pray every success and God’s will on the person that He chooses to pick up the baton and continue serving Ukraine!”
Reflections of Stan
Former Masters board member Karen Milley reflects on the ministry and passing of co-founder and former President Stan Watrich
In 1988, on Stan’s flight home from his first trip to Ukraine, the Lord spoke to him. What God would speak to him that day would change the trajectory of his life. God told Stan clearly that day - “This is your calling.” From that moment on, Ukraine was indeed his calling, and Stan began to make decisions that, we know now, will likely have results that last throughout eternity.
As Stan’s trips to Ukraine increased, the ministry in Ukraine grew. Many needs came to his attention, and Master’s grew to respond and meet those needs. The ministry of Master's Foundation has included many projects.
Some of these are:
- Building Bible Colleges and Assisting Pastors and Churches.
- Helping orphanages that were in dire circumstances with repairs and renovations, and providing the children with much needed vitamins, clothes, school supplies, craft supplies, etc.
- Printing literature for people in prisons, letting them know that they were not forgotten, that there is a God, and he loves them very much.
- Filling and shipping massive containers of humanitarian aid with food, clothing, medical supplies to help meet the practical needs of the Ukrainian people.
- Sponsoring radio and television programs that proclaimed the good news throughout Ukraine.
Stan often said that he was honoured and privileged to serve the wonderful country and people of Ukraine. He continued to share his heart and his vision up until the weeks before he passed. Whether he was well or struggling with his many health issues, Stan’s passion and calling remained the same. His heart and faithfulness to his calling can be an inspiration to all of us.
Halina, Stan’s wife of 60 years, is a big part of this story. We are so grateful for her
sacrifice so Stan could fulfill his calling to Ukraine. Halina would often be in the office helping, packing items for shipment, and praying for the ministry. Thank you, Halina.
Stan’s passing marks the end of this era, but the work of Master’s Foundation continues. With the war that continues to rage, help for Ukraine is needed even more. Stan’s calling is now our calling, and our biggest tribute to him is for each is for us to continue to serve the wonderful people of Ukraine.
Stan Watrich, a legacy left in Ukraine