“The more professional you are ... — the more people will hear about Jesus Christ”

My journey in ministry began with the example of my father — a man with a burning heart for God. He dedicated his life to serving, organizing camps, conferences, and even building a church in our small village. His devotion deeply shaped me.

When I moved to Odesa to study, I made a personal decision: I wanted to dedicate my life fully to God. After getting married 11 years ago, my wife and I chose to step into full-time ministry. Since 2013 I’ve been serving in the church, since 2017 — full-time.

Today, I serve as a deacon and oversee several key areas: church operations, youth ministries, evangelistic projects, media teams, and worship services. I also help coordinate missionaries in multiple locations. One of our major initiatives, an Easter reconstruction event, gathered over 1,500 people this year.

What do you seek to create or change through your ministry? What impact do you want to see as a result?

I am passionate about two things.

First — authentic, living ministry. I want people not just to serve, but to truly burn with passion for God.

Second — excellence and professionalism. As our senior pastor says:
“The more professional you are, the higher you can go — and the more people will hear about Jesus Christ.”

I believe Christians are called to grow, reach high levels, and remain strong despite challenges.

Did your ministry change during the war? What did you reevaluate during this time?

The war reshaped my understanding of what truly matters. It became a challenge that pushed us to grow, expand, and serve even more effectively. We realized we are in the right place — and committed ourselves even deeper.

Why did you decide to study at UETS?

Studying at seminary was a long-held dream. Now, as someone fully involved in ministry, I clearly see how important theological education is for the ministry to have impact.

It helps me daily — not only in knowledge, but in clarity, confidence, and practical ministry skills.

What did seminary give you beyond knowledge?

Seminary gave me a strong community and broadened my perspectives. It helped me better understand people, their worldview, and how to serve them effectively.

It also brought order to my theological thinking — giving me confidence, patience, and tools for preaching and communication.

Moreover, its impact spread: five more people from our church have started studying as well, already strengthening our community.

Can you give an example of a person whose life was changed through your ministry?

One young man, Oleksii, came to our church just before the war — passionate and searching. Within weeks, he gave his life to Christ.

We supported him, discipled him, and soon he experienced a powerful transformation. After missionary training, he and his wife went to serve in another region.

Today, at just 21, he is actively building ministry. Seeing his life changed is a powerful reminder of what God can do.