Luka Cvetkovski is training to be a pastor and is involved in various ministries at his church in North Macedonia.
When did you trust Christ?
From 2015 to 2018, I was going through a very difficult period in my life. At the beginning of March 2018, I cried out to God for the first time in my life. Around two weeks after that day, I met a missionary from the UK on the street in Skopje, and he invited me to church. When I went there for the first time, the Holy Spirit touched me, and I've never felt such great love and joy in my life. I started to go to church every Sunday, spending most of my free time with members of the church, reading and studying the Bible, and praying regularly. At the beginning of May 2018, I was baptised. It was amazing to see myself as a hopeless person transformed and motivated in a few weeks. That was the period when I put my trust in Jesus and accepted Him as Saviour and Lord.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
After I had gotten baptised, I realised I was called to be faithful and obedient to God, and that obedience to Him would cost me. After I finished Bible school in Serbia, I came back to Northern Macedonia with no secure place to stay, no job, and no money. In all that chaos, I went through many trials, many sleepless nights, stress, and sadness. But I always reminded myself that I was not alone, that God was with me, and that this season would pass. Although it was very difficult, thanks to God, that season did pass. It was exciting to experience the moments in which God, through people, helped me day after day, week after week, month after month. Just as He was with Moses, David, and Elijah in the most difficult moments of their lives. I came to know God as someone who is above all problems, suffering, and uncertainty. He is worthy of being followed, because He is faithful!
What do you hope to gain from participating?
My pastor attended the Forum and mentioned it was an amazing opportunity to connect with other faithful leaders, get high-quality biblical training, and find encouragement in ministry. Attending the Forum will provide access to cutting-edge theological discussions and practical ministry training that will directly enhance our church's discipleship programs. Also, the opportunity to network with European leaders will open doors for potential partnerships in missions and cross-cultural ministry initiatives. I anticipate gaining fresh perspectives on leadership challenges common in ministry today, which will enable me to lead our team more effectively and inspire greater engagement. Additionally, I believe my personal spiritual renewal and growth through the forum's teachings and community will undoubtedly translate into more passionate and impactful leadership within our ministry.
What is your ministry?
Currently, I am a pastor in training, deeply involved in ministry as a church-planting student, actively participating in both the worship and leadership teams. In addition to training as a pastor and preacher, I manage the church's Facebook page to connect with the community. My ministry also extends to practical support, assisting with various tasks and maintenance within the church building.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I previously had the opportunity to build a relationship with elementary and high school students. This involved organising and leading meetings, recreational activities, and counselling them through personal challenges. By building trust and fostering a positive environment, I helped these students grow in their confidence and skills.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I am eager to participate in leadership training, particularly programs like the European Leadership Forum, as I haven't had such an opportunity before. I believe this is the ideal time to engage, as it will provide a valuable platform to learn from the diverse experiences, opinions, and teachings of other leaders. This exposure will significantly help me in developing and solidifying my own perspectives on various matters.
