How Do We Grow in Our Transformational Knowledge of God and Self?

How does knowing ourselves impact our ministry, our faith, and our community? Our own identity cannot be rightly understood apart from a deeper relationship with God. The more we know Him, the more we come to know ourselves, for we are created in His image. This session puts into practice some of the tools we can use to help us discover ourselves and be shaped in His likeness.

Jelena Sivulka hails from Serbia, where she was born and raised. She obtained her master's degrees in psychology and theology from her homeland. Thirty years ago, she embraced Christianity, igniting a passion for ministry alongside her husband, Greg. Together, they have been instrumental in church planting efforts, humanitarian aid distribution, and partnerships with organizations like Joni and Friends, dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities. Jelena's professional journey as a clinical psychologist has seen her serving in various capacities, including schools, social centers, and medical clinics throughout Serbia. She is the visionary founder and director of the nonprofit organization, Hana's Hope. Currently, Jelena is nearing completion of her Ph.D. in Mental Health and Theology at the University of Bucharest, while also overseeing counseling schools in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region. Central to her academic and personal pursuits are topics concerning suffering and the heart of God, particularly in the context of mental health challenges. Jelena is a mother to three children: Benjamin, Sara, and Hana, whose journey with autism has deeply shaped her understanding and advocacy in the field of mental health.

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