On May 22–23, the Ukrainian Evangelical Theological Seminary (UETS) hosted its annual theological conference. This year’s theme was “Wounded Leadership: Challenges and Ways of Recovery.” While the title speaks to the academic focus, the event served a much more vital purpose: equipping Christian leaders with the resilience needed to serve in conditions of war-related trauma and exhaustion.
The impact of the conference reached far beyond Ukrainian borders. We were privileged to host participants from five different countries, representing various churches and denominations from every corner of Ukraine. This assembly included church leaders and numerous pastors, demonstrating a unified front in the face of crisis. The event also served as a vital connection point for the Ukrainian diaspora, providing spiritual support to those serving abroad.
The conference was anchored by the theological and practical expertise of UETS faculty and other reputable leaders such as Dr. Radyslav Tatsiun, Dr. Alexander Negrov, Dr. Milena Milenina, Dr. Charlie Hobbs, Rev. Fedir Raichynets, Rev. Serhii Fliuhrant, Taras Diatlyk, Olha Kondiuk, Viktoriia Ulianova, who led interactive sessions on vulnerability, psychological resilience, and the search for identity in Christ during times of war.
We were also enormously blessed by the participation of our long-term partners from College Park Church, Indianapolis, USA, in the conference. Their presence was a powerful example of “embodied partnership” that goes beyond words to share in the lived reality of the Ukrainian church. Pastor Nate Irvin delivered a stirring sermon, offering words of encouragement that resonated deeply with the audience.
One of the most memorable moments of the event was the worship evening led by Pastor Eric Anderson. His ministry highlighted the profound difference between musical skill and the true gift of leading people into the presence of God.
As a powerful storm raged outside and the country continued to endure the darkness of a full-scale war, conference participants stood together in sincere worship. It was a reminder that our hope remains in God, regardless of the surrounding chaos.
The 2026 conference was more than an academic endeavour. It was a true sanctuary for healing. By addressing emotional exhaustion and leadership crises, UETS continues its mission to form leaders who are not only academically prepared but spiritually resilient enough to serve society in its most challenging hour.