Andriy Hnidets
Currently, my ministry is to serve as the Head of the Board of the Fellowship of Christian Students in Ukraine (CCX). Also, I work full-time in Ukraine's anti-corruption area, namely for the EU project called "European Union Anti-corruption Initiative". Additionally, since the war started, I have served as a project manager for a few humanitarian aid projects organized by the Ukrainian Baptist Union. Besides that, I am a preacher and small group leader in the local church.
I was born into a family of believing parents. In 2006, God touched my heart in a special way and I repented of my sins and made the decision to follow Jesus. This happened during a youth worship event. On June 1, 2008, I was baptised.
I pay special attention to the ministry of evangelism and to the development of my personal relationship with God. For example, after three years of following Jesus, my pastor asked me to preach in church. After that first sermon the pastor told me that I have the gift of preaching. This was the beginning of my ministry, which for me is my greatest source of pleasure. Another special moment in my walk with Jesus was when my best friend came to Christ because of my testimony.
ELF has always been a significant "spiritual refreshment" for me. After the Forum, I received a lot of new energy, contacts, and ideas (which were successfully implemented in my ministry). Another significant advantage is the Forum's international character, which often helps me rethink my ministry in a broader context. This year, I want to return to receive new spiritual refreshment and ideas for ministry. I expect to experience the same as in the previous Forums: to meet many new and "old" friends, share the challenges in ministry, and have a good time of joint worship. Also, I want to be encouraged by experienced and spirit-led speakers.
I have been a preacher, youth leader in church, and the head of the Kiev branch of the Association of Christian Lawyers of Ukraine. When I was studying at university, I was the leader of the student scientific society at my school.
I am the leader of one of the biggest Christian ministries in Ukraine. Investing in my ministry will help continue to spread the Gospel in our country.