“When I look at them, I don’t see criminals.” These are the words of Pastor Volodymyr, as he shared with Storyteller Angela at the SGA-supported Pastor and Pastor’s Wives Retreat this past spring.

He spoke fondly of his desire to serve the many men who find themselves in prison for crimes committed. It wasn’t about the “criminal” that he wanted to serve, but the lost soul that needed to hear about life saving faith in Christ. 

Volodymyr has been able to faithfully minister to these men partly because of the faithfulness of his wife, who has supported him for over 35 years now. He counts her prayers and support as one of his greatest blessings. “Thinking back to the blessings over the years, Pastor Volodymyr mentions the most important one of all: behind the scenes of all he does in ministry stands his loving and faithful wife.” What a blessing it is to read about a couple’s love for lost souls and their love for God and one another, which enables them to serve side by side for the sake of the Gospel.  

“For Volodymyr, who came to know the Lord at 12 years old, serving God meant committing himself to prison ministry. For the past 35 years, Volodymyr has served countless prisoners with different backgrounds, bringing sandwiches and the Gospel to those serving time. Throughout this time, 221 people have been baptized, and many have become church members and ministers. About 200 men gather every Sunday in the small church that Volodymyr and some other brothers were able to organize. Just this year, 15 men have repented of their sins and are learning more about their Savior.

Thinking back to the blessings over the years, Pastor Volodymyr mentions the most important one of all: behind the scenes of all he does in ministry stands his loving and faithful wife. “It will be 50 years since we got married this Sunday . . . this prison ministry would not have been possible if it weren’t for her. She prays for them, serves me, encourages me, and never complains about the amount of time that I spend with them. She lovingly awaits my return and stands for them in prayer,” says Volodymyr with a twinkle in his eye.

Although this prison context is not easy, with time the prisoners have come to understand that what Volodymyr brings to them is something real. Pastor Volodymyr brings them sincere love that is proven in the way he lives. That’s why, years later, some of the men who have since been freed come to his house with gratitude and bring with them a good testimony of living for the Lord. This brings much joy to the family.

 Pastor Volodymyr says, “When I look at them, I don’t see criminals. I see people who need help, and I love them. God has blessed me immensely with His mercy and grace. How can I not share what I’ve been given?!”

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