Despite all the difficulties of the war, we successfully finished the spring semester. This year 35 brand-new church ministers received their diplomas and were released to do the work of the Gospel. A memorable graduation ceremony took place at Golgotha Church, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication for our graduates. Local ministers bestowed their blessings upon these young people as they prepared to embark on their respective journeys of ministry. The graduation was made even more special by the presence of graduates from our affiliation in Motovylivka, Kyiv region .
In addition to the theological studies, 10 of our students have finished hairdressing courses this semester. They successfully acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to become professional hairdressers, and this additional training will enable them not only to support themselves but also to contribute to their ministries through their hairdressing abilities. Some of our graduates opened their own churches during such ministry. It is easy to testimony for people in such a way.
The graduation ceremony at Lviv Theological Seminary was a significant milestone in the lives of these students. It symbolized the completion of their academic and vocational training, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their chosen paths of service to God and humanity. May their education and skills be a blessing to them and the communities they serve as they continue to grow and make a positive impact in the world.
MISSION TRIPS
Every year we send students for 2-3 weeks on mission trips to do practical evangelism and help local missionaries to spread the Gospel. It is a very helpful and useful practice to connect with people.
Like never before, Ukrainian people need to hear the Good News of the Bible and gain peace in their hearts. This is why the seminary decided to send three mission teams of students to three different places in Ukraine: Khmelnytskyi city, Solotvyno Transcarpathia, and Turka, Lviv region. The students were actively engaged in assisting local churches in their outreach efforts, particularly in their work with refugees, children, and youth. Ukrainians had an opportunity to hear the Gospel message of salvation and hope for all people.
We believe that the seeds sown during these missions will bear fruit in the future as the church continues to grow and witness the impact of this labor. The dedication and service of these young missionaries exemplify their commitment to sharing the love of Christ and spreading the message of faith.
REFUGEES IN LViV THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
The war is not over yet. Every single day, the enemy attacks our cities and towns, killing civilians and ruining people’s houses. The very recent attack on Lviv took the lives of ten people, partially ruined around 30 buildings, and many people lost their apartments. This happens every day all over Ukraine. Lviv Theological Seminary has opened its doors to refugees from the most dangerous parts of Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Today, we have 30 people living in our dorm full-time. Many people stay with us for several nights, get some rest, food, and everything need, and then go to different European countries as refugees. Once per month, the seminary distributes food packages to around 300 refugees who live in our neighborhood. It’s not easy for us, but we can’t stand aside when so many people suffer. You know very well how it is because your country welcomed thousands of Ukrainians, giving them refuge and all the means for living.
There are no words good enough to express our gratitude to the Lord and to you, dear church for being our partners in this ministry and keeping our hands lifted in such a difficult time. Your commitment is inspiring. Your help changes lives, and your prayers keep us encouraged in serving the Lord and people – both our students, and refugees.
During the wartime, we had over 6500 refugees and over 1000 refugee children. We also give packages with food every month for street refugees – over 2000 packages in 2023.
Many blessings,
Volodymyr Salaydyak , LTS President
With the fall of communism in 1991, a great door for the gospel opened in Ukraine. However, it is estimated that 70% of pastors and evangelical leaders in Ukraine do not have any theological education. L’viv Theological Seminary (LTS) is therefore committed to equipping Christian men and women for ministry. Since the war, however, LTS has had to make many adjustments. They have lost 50% of their students many of which are either soldiers or refugees, 30% of their equipment and facilities, satellite branches in other cities have been occupied and staff killed or imprisoned. The main school has helped over 6500 refugees in the past year. In September 2023 they hope to restart their programs but the number of students and branches are smaller because of the war. Please continue to pray for and support L’viv Theological Seminary in these difficult times.
