Marija Maran Noćajac is the founder of a Christian NGO in Serbia.
When did you trust Christ?
As a child, I went to church, but I never had a real relationship with God. After multiple difficult experiences, I spent time with my best friend again, who had now become a completely different person. When I asked him what changed him, he said it was Jesus. Since I didn't have anything in my life to hold onto, I decided to give Jesus a chance. It took me about six months to open up to Him. In March of 2014, I gave my life to Christ, which was the best decision I ever made.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
One of the defining moments of my Christian walk was meeting my husband. Through him, God has elevated me, brought back my faith in love, and shown me that I could love again. I am happy, and I feel fulfilled in my marriage. God has made my wish come true; I feel loved and accepted.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I expect a space where I can grow – personally, spiritually, and in my calling. It is important to me to be part of a community where I can be honest, where I can learn, but also be encouraged and guided. I want to gain a clearer understanding of my calling, especially in connecting art and ministry, and to receive wisdom and practical tools on how to live that out healthily and sustainably. Also, I expect mentorship that will challenge me to step out of my comfort zone, but also support that will strengthen me to faithfully continue on the path that God has called me to.
What is your ministry?
Central to my life and service remains working through business in the secular world, where, through my non-governmental organisation, I encourage women and young married couples in Novi Sad and across Vojvodina to start and manage their own small businesses. In addition, one of my hobbies has transformed into a special form of service. I opened an art studio where I lead art workshops and gatherings that serve as a space to minister to people, listen to their needs, and convey the message of the Gospel through creativity.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
In addition to my current ministry, I am also part of International Marriage Week in Novi Sad. My role is to fundraise and network for activities within this ministry. Every year, I successfully collect donations for a couple of Christian ministries, such as Week of Marriage, Hana's Hope, and Focus. These donations come from more than one hundred non-Christian sources. These donors give wholeheartedly through my organisation to other Christian projects.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
As a young believer in the type of ministry I have been given, I need to be surrounded by people with similar experiences and knowledge to learn from.
