Interview with Serhiy Holovach, a UETS student of Christian Care and Counseling and minister of the Sinai Church in Chernivtsi.
Please tell us more about yourself, the church where you serve, and the main areas of ministry your church is involved in.
I was born in Chernivtsi. My journey to faith was challenging — I struggled with alcohol addiction and spent nearly ten years in rehabilitation centers, seeking freedom. In 2019, I completed my final rehabilitation program. Now, together with my wife, I serve at the Sinai Church in Chernivtsi.
Our church is deeply committed to serving the community through various ministries. We work with teenagers, young adults, and internally displaced persons (IDPs), organize evangelistic festivals, support veterans’ hospitals, and lead prayer and Bible study groups. Home groups help members discover and use their God-given gifts, and we undergo training to be an active presence in the community.
Evangelism — the Great Commission — is a focus of our ministry. Our goal is to share the message of Jesus Christ and His love with people. Many believe in God, but not all understand that He loves them personally. During evangelism, we tell people about God’s love, ask how we can pray for them, and seek to meet their needs where possible — whether through food, clothing, or other support — in the name of Jesus Christ. We also invite them to Sunday services and encourage them to read the Bible.
Home groups function as small church communities that meet at homes. They provide a welcoming space for both new believers and those still seeking faith. We prepare a delicious meal, give thanks to God, and during dinner, we share how our week has been, discuss insights from the Sunday sermon, and close with prayer for one another.
What specific ministry are you personally engaged in? Why did you choose this ministry? Is there a story behind it?
I have actively participated in outreach projects and served in rehabilitation centers. Now, I visit a hospital for veterans to support wounded soldiers. I am also actively involved in prayer ministry and assist in various church activities as needed.
What challenges have you encountered in organizing your ministry?
One of the biggest challenges was learning to communicate with people effectively. Many struggle with this, but evangelism requires us to overcome these barriers. Every believer is called to share the Gospel, and it is important to persevere.
Interestingly, the war has motivated some churches to take action. The church I previously attended started to go on relief trips to the frontlines to provide spiritual and humanitarian support. In 2022, I joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine and shared my faith with fellow soldiers. We always ate together, prayed before meals, and had meaningful discussions about God. Even now, some of them call me and invite me to visit. I am grateful to God for everything I have experienced.
How has your ministry changed during the war? What have you reconsidered during this time?
I have come to realize how crucial it is to have a personal relationship with God. Many people relied too much on their pastors, and when their leaders left or were displaced, they didn’t know what to do. This time has reinforced the importance of deeply studying Scripture.
The biggest change is the recognition that we must follow God personally, no matter the circumstances. During my military service, I worked as a sapper, and while I never had to fire at people, the experience reshaped my perspective of faith and service.
What changes do you hope to achieve through your ministry? What impact or results would you like to see?
I would love to see spiritual gifts become more evident—not just in myself but in others as well. I want to better understand my own gifts and use them effectively to serve others. Through learning and training, I hope to develop the ability to truly see people, understand their real needs, and offer the right kind of help. Often, people don’t even know what they need, and sometimes, the best help is simply not interfering unnecessarily.
Why did you decide to study at UETS? How did you choose this specific program?
My pastor from my previous church recommended UETS. I decided to start with a short-term program to see if it was the right fit for me. As I explored the available courses, I chose ‘Christian Care and Counseling’ that resonated with me the most.
How has studying at UETS impacted you personally and your ministry? Could you please share some practical examples?
I am deeply grateful to the seminary for its well-rounded, positive influence on students, including myself. As a first-year student, I am still getting to know the seminary, but I can already see the benefits. My studies have shaped my perspective, improved my communication skills, and strengthened my relationships — especially within my family and marriage.
I have realized the importance of discipline, finishing tasks on time, and truly listening to people instead of rushing to offer advice. One key lesson has been understanding that I don’t need to act as a “rescuer” — sometimes, simply being present is enough.
What valuable experiences, beyond theoretical knowledge, have you gained at the seminary?
Beyond academic learning, I have gained invaluable experiences through my interactions with fellow students and professors. The seminary has outstanding, dedicated teachers who are genuinely invested in our growth. There is a common stereotype that university professors can be harsh and overly demanding, but this is not the case at UETS. Here, teachers are always ready to help and truly care about ensuring that students understand and apply what they learn. Even when we struggle, they support us, and we never feel overlooked.
How has your approach to leadership in ministry changed as a result of your studies? Have relationships within your team changed?
I now have a clearer vision for leadership, and I am first applying what I learn within my family. My wife and I are spending more quality time together and growing in our faith as a couple. She is also studying women’s leadership, which has been a great encouragement for both of us.
Could you share a brief story of someone whose life has been impacted by your ministry?
In 2022, I joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. After sustaining a severe injury, I returned home and continued serving in the church. One moment that deeply touched me was when a woman shared how my perseverance had inspired her not to give up. Despite losing a limb and using a wheelchair, I continue to rejoice in the Lord. My journey has encouraged others to remain steadfast in their faith, no matter their circumstances.