Building the Church: CITA Ministry Hosts Thematic Conferences in Ethiopia

Pastoral and family gatherings are an essential part of the spiritual work carried out by the international ministry “Christ is the Answer” in local churches across various countries. These gatherings are led by CITA director and pastor Taras Sen during each missionary trip, including visits to Ethiopia.

Pastoral Gatherings

At the two-day thematic conferences held in Ethiopian cities where CITA crusades took place, at least one hundred pastors and local church leaders gathered.

Pastor Taras Sen spoke to the ministers about the responsibilities of a pastor and the dangers within ministry, sharing from his personal experience:

“The most important duty of a pastor is to care for the church: to prepare people for their meeting with God and for serving Him.

There are many wounded people in churches. Our mission is to serve them. A pastor must provide the church with sound teaching based on the Word of God. Sermons should be prepared in a way that helps people find answers to their questions and grow spiritually.”

Speaking about the traps that ministers often face, Taras Sen highlighted some of the most common ones—temptations related to money and immorality. He also emphasized the importance of devoting enough attention to family life and the minister’s responsibility to always speak the truth, no matter the circumstances.

In some cities, Pastor Sen taught on the topic of “Demonology,” covering the causes of demonic oppression, how to pray for deliverance, and how to counsel people struggling with spiritual bondage.

Family Gatherings

The Ukrainian CITA team considers ministering to families an important part of their trips to Ethiopia, aiming to strengthen marriages and restore relationships by reminding them of simple yet essential aspects of family life.

In a festive atmosphere, couples wrote love letters to each other on colorful cards, participated in games and contests, exchanged compliments, and listened to guidance on building a strong marriage and raising children. They were also given a romantic homework assignment.

Learn more about “The 12 Commandments of a Happy Marriage” on our Telegram channel posted on January 23.

“I mainly addressed the husbands because they are constantly engaged in ministry, while their wives carry the burden of household responsibilities. Many pastors promised to reassess their family life after the conference, realizing the need for change. I spoke about the importance of raising children correctly and investing in them. As is tradition, I gave the husbands homework: to organize a date night with their wives and send me a photo report. During the meetings, couples prayed together while embracing. It was truly touching,” shared Taras Sen after one of the family gatherings in Ethiopia.

One of the goals of these thematic conferences is to introduce local churches to the concept of family gatherings and inspire them to host such meetings regularly.

As a husband and father of six children, Taras Sen shared his personal family experiences and encouraged couples to strengthen their relationships and guide young families in living wisely:

“As a minister, husband, and father, I offered practical advice for families. For example, I suggested dedicating one day a week as a family day, completely free from other commitments. This could be a day to play soccer with the kids, fix something at home, or spend quality time alone as a couple. If we implement this, it will significantly improve family relationships. I also strongly recommend that families eat together regularly—this brings unity.

Additionally, I emphasized that the husband is the spiritual leader in the home, which means there should be Bible reading and family prayer. A man must understand his role and responsibilities within the family.”

To support these thematic gatherings and help strengthen marriages, the Ministry has developed interactive games and activities for couples and families.

CITA Ministry Press Center.