The following is an interview with Volodymyr Vitenko, a 4th year student of the Applied Theology Program and pastor, who shared about his ministry, thoughts, experiences and the challenges his local church is facing during the war.
Could you tell us about yourself, where you were born and the city where you live and serve now?
My name is Volodymyr, I am a 55-year-old farmer living in a small town Kaharlyk, Kyiv region, working in the agricultural sector, and serving as a pastor at a local church. I have three children and two grandchildren. Since dedicating my life to the Lord at the age of 36, I have been a minister of Calvary Church Ukraine, a part of a global movement that has been active in Ukraine for over 30 years.
What are the main ministries at your church? What kind of ministry are you personally involved in?
Members of the Calvary Church in Kaharlyk are involved in various ministries in the church and the community, serving as much as they have resources and people. Although the church is quite small, it is very lively and active. Even though the town of Kaharlyk is close to Kyiv, the congregation did not stop attending services even during the active hostilities near Kyiv. We began to serve the IDPs as much as we could. The church premises are located in the downtown area, and the church became a reception point for people leaving their cities. Some stayed overnight, some for a few days, some for a week, and some stayed for six months or a year.
Also, our church has been actively ministering to wounded soldiers in a border guard hospital for about two years now. It was started by a church member who served in the army, and after returning home, the Lord put it on his heart to minister to wounded soldiers. The church quickly joined this ministry of support. Although it is a very difficult ministry emotionally, as the soldiers in hospitals are wounded physically, mentally and psychologically, and also their family members. However, many people are sincerely happy when they get visits and are open to both humanitarian and psychological help, they are open to testimony of the Lord, and happy to pray together. Soldiers returning to the front after the hospitals are often calling and thank us. The Lord miraculously supports and develops this ministry of support for wounded soldiers.
Our church also provides a ministry of support for chaplains: praying, financially supporting and other means; evangelism ministry in the city and support missionaries from the church who are serving in Asia.
What challenges are you currently facing in your ministry?
I understand this is a turbulent and challenging time to work and serve. The biggest challenges I face are the people I meet and their stories and experiences. Serving the people of Ukraine today means confronting constant losses, tears, broken families, and wounded hearts. Many people I meet are deeply disappointed and come with profound questions, asking, “Where is God in all of this?” People are often hurt and desperate.
I acknowledge that this is a difficult time for everyone, and I also face personal trials in my pastoral ministry. I pray for helpers to assist me in carrying out my work more effectively. Despite the hardships, I put my trust in the Lord, understanding the crucial importance of inner strength and a deep relationship with God.
Could you please share how your ministry has changed since the war began? What aspects have you reconsidered during this period?
When the full-scale invasion began, the Lord gave me His peace. During the first months, I served in territorial defense, but as the need for defense decreased, I became more involved in the church. At every step, the Lord provided His support. Though there may be disappointments, the Lord is greater than these temporary difficulties. I give Him glory for everything!
The Bible teaches us that trials strengthen our faith. In this context, they are truly necessary and useful. This turbulent time challenges each of us from within, not only ourselves but also those around us. When everything is going well, we may not fully appreciate the grace and support God provides. However, this difficult, tearful period teaches us much about humanity and hope. We believe that a just peace will come, but in the meantime, we must do everything within our capabilities and serve every day. This is a time when the Lord is changing us.
Could you please tell us about your decision to study at UETS? Specifically, what motivated you to choose this program, and how have your studies at UETS impacted you personally and in your ministry?
Regarding my studies at the seminary, I realized that I lacked the necessary knowledge and training to effectively lead even a small ministry. Even sharing a brief message at a church was incredibly challenging for me. The Lord revealed many things to me through the UETS, and I gained a broader understanding and vision of God Himself, His will, and His Word.
I chose the Applied Theology program because I believe that you need to be deeply engaged in study, to understand the whole ministry, from Genesis to Revelation. Without studying, it is impossible to see and learn this connection for yourself. As I went through discipline after discipline, I developed a more holistic understanding of God Himself, and the essence of life, my life personally, and who we are in God. I had many questions, certain doubts before, and the study of Theology opened my eyes, gave me answers to my questions, and an understanding of God’s plan for us and for our world.
Indeed, it has become easier for me to communicate with different people, share the Word, and organize ministries. The seminary provided me with holistic training in various areas. And I am very grateful to God that He led me to the UETS.