Volodymyr Fomin is a seminary student and pastor's assistant who serves as Technical Director and is a leader in a variety of other ministries at his local church in Ukraine.
When did you trust Christ?
The war in Ukraine destroyed my worldview, hopes, and dreams. Before the war, I had dabbled in the occult and New Age teachings. I thought I was getting the truth, but in reality, I was moving into darkness. The war made me realise that everything the world offers is a lie. Fear and hopelessness started ruling over me, and I wanted to die. I started crying, and then I heard a voice like thunder saying, "Quiet!" Immediately, I stopped crying. Hopelessness and loneliness were replaced with peace and love. I couldn't explain it. A friend then told me about God's love and why she believes in Him. I had not known she was a believer, but I knew it could not be a coincidence. Later, I met a friend of hers, who also told me about Jesus. I repented and was born again, and I will never be the same. I will praise Him forever!
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
Before I became a Christian, I was an atheist, then an agnostic, then an occultist. Throughout my youth, I wrestled with God. He won, and now I cannot turn back. Whenever I have doubts, I remember how God rescued me and led me patiently through life with His hand. His love overcomes everything. He cared and loved me even when I hated Him. There have been many other instances in which God taught me to be humble and not rely on my understanding. I have learned that His ways, wisdom, and decisions are always the best.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
By attending the Forum, I have become better at preparing sermons, studying the Bible, and preaching. I have built connections with ministers from other cities and countries. I now know my calling clearly, and have faith that God will use ELF to help me continue to grow into the person He wants me to be. I desire to learn how to plant churches, lead Christian communities, and handle all the challenges involved. I want to build new relationships, deepen existing friendships, get the training needed for my ministry, and, of course, buy more great books!
What is your ministry?
I serve as a pastor's assistant, preaching on Sundays to new converts at a rural church plant, livestreaming Sunday services in the main church, and managing our Facebook page. I disciple Christian student leaders, organize university outreaches, hold Bible studies, care for students' souls, organise student prayer meetings, plant new mission communities in universities, and help the poor with finances, prayer, and soul care. As a team leader, I create and implement big projects, fundraise, and organise university and church events. In seminary, I am studying the Bible, theology, and apologetics.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I have only been a believer for three years and have served in any needed capacity.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
My country is going through a great storm, so many people are seeking God and need to hear the Gospel. They need hope. They need Christ. As a servant of Christ, I want to become a better minister, so God can use me to serve many people and share the Gospel with the world.
