Katerina Kocyan is the Bridge Ukraine Lead with Operation Mobilisation (OM).
When did you trust Christ?
I made this decision when I was about 13 years old. I got to know Christians one summer at camp. The message and the love of the people touched me. The Holy Spirit touched my heart, and I committed my life to the Lord. I am still on a journey to get to know Him better, and I have never regretted my decision to follow Him.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
Some of these influential moments include the youth leader at the camp who presented me with the Christian message; reading the book 'The Cross and the Switchblade'; the church that I attended while I was living in Scotland, where the pastor was genuinely preaching the Gospel of grace; and listening to sermons and reading books by Tim Keller, John Piper, and Francis Chan.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
It is an excellent opportunity to connect with people, network, and experience some high-quality teaching and workshops and inspiration from leaders from across Europe and beyond.
What is your ministry?
My husband and I are serving in Operation Mobilisation Ukraine. We focus on the following: short-term teams and interns coming to Ukraine from abroad, young leader development, consulting with Christian NGOs, and project management.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I started leading YMCA youth camps when I was about 16 years old. Later, during my university studies, I became a student and small group leader in my church in Scotland. Based on this, I became a cluster leader in my church, leading other small group leaders and dedicating my time to them. I have also worked as a foundation director, responsible for leading the organisation in its daily responsibilities and continued development.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
The people here desperately need to hear the Gospel and see that it is still relevant and can transform their lives. Showing the love of Christ by serving the people of Ukraine is much needed now.
