Jelena Simunovic Poluga is a philologist and a leader of a small group in Serbia.
When did you trust Christ?
When my dad suddenly passed away in 1998, I thought all hope was lost. Thankfully, I knew about his faith and attended the Bible studies he used to go to. The words that stayed with me were that my dad confessed Jesus as his Saviour and was sure he was going to heaven. All I wanted at that time was to see my dad again. So, I searched for hope and wanted more answers. Shortly after that, a missionary in my city started Bible studies in my mother tongue. I was baptised about a year after my dad passed away.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
The most recent trial was our move from Montenegro to Serbia several years ago. It was a really tough decision. I left everything behind, including my university teaching position and church. Through many trials at the beginning, God showed us the way and helped us start a home group. We are incredibly blessed by this church, and the leaders come to our home group every week. Together, we try to reach out to the community.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I would love to form more relationships at the Forum, be mentored more, and participate in the academic group, which meant so much to me because, in my country, there are not many Christians in academia. I also greatly benefited from the talks. I listened to some of the recordings again and shared them with others. I also enjoyed reading great Christian literature that I got at the Forum.
What is your ministry?
My husband and I lead a home group with the support of our church in the neighbouring city. We host, develop a reading plan, and reach out to people. Occasionally, we travel to nearby Christian campgrounds to study the Bible and reach out to villages around our town. With leaders and sisters from my church, we visit a neighbouring city with a few believers, primarily women. I also help with translation, singing, and childcare at my church.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
During my college studies, I was part of a student ministry. After graduating, I was able to help with singing, student and women's meetings, and Sunday school. The student ministry during my studies in the US included singing and drama groups representing my college and travelling from church to church in the southern part of the US. When I returned to Montenegro, I had various roles, but one of the longest was simultaneous translation for English-speaking foreign visitors.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
My purpose in life is to glorify God. I have always sought advice regarding my choices, primarily my academic career. I am convinced God wants to use it in one way or another. I pray that my time at ELF will help me get more direction and clarity in what to do next.
