Today, we have the privilege of sharing an extraordinary testimony of how God’s boundless grace and transforming power brought new life to a woman named Irina. This is a story of redemption, a journey from spiritual darkness to the glorious light of Yeshua.
About seven months ago, Irina arrived in Israel from Ukraine, carrying with her a history steeped in the search for meaning and connection through astrology, tarot cards, and spiritual rituals. Her occupation as a masseuse intertwined with these practices, as she believed she could offer clients more than physical healing—guidance from spiritual forces she once trusted.
Shortly after arriving, Irina met Sveta, a warm and friendly believer in our congregation. Through their growing friendship, Sveta invited Irina to attend one of our Shabbat services.
At first, Irina was curious.
She was impressed by the depth of teaching and the genuine love of the community, but something deeper stirred within her—an undeniable hunger for the truth.
Sensing God’s hand at work, Sveta invited Irina to a home group hosted by Kostia and his wife Angela, part of our follow-up team. Irina came with an open heart but also with the weight of her past beliefs and practices. It was not an easy beginning. She had so many questions, and her understanding of the spiritual world was shaped by years of wandering in darkness. Yet, there was a spark—an undeniable desire to know more.
Little by little, the Holy Spirit began a deep work in Irina’s heart.
She started to see how Jesus was gently yet powerfully entering her life, transforming her thoughts, and renewing her spirit. At the home group, she learned how to pray. It was all new to her. She asked earnest questions, even wondering if she should pray for the dead—a reflection of how far God had to bring her into understanding His truth. With great patience, Kostia and Angela guided her through the Scriptures, helping her see God’s will and purpose for her life.
Then came a turning point that marked a bold step of faith.
Irina decided to let go of everything tied to her former life. She gathered her tarot cards, astrology books, and ritual items—objects that once held so much meaning to her—and threw them all away, and received Yeshua completely as her Lord and Savior. It wasn’t just a physical act; it was a powerful spiritual declaration that she was ready to leave behind the darkness and embrace the light of Yeshua fully.
But God wasn’t done with Irina.
Last week, she stood before the home group and shared a testimony. Her face was radiant as she recounted how she had prayed for someone, a friend of hers called Marina who was suffering from depression, and saw the Holy Spirit move in power. She described witnessing God’s miracle firsthand, and how His overwhelming presence overshadowed her and Marina as she prayed, resulting in Marina being set free!
As she spoke, the room filled with the tangible presence of the Holy Spirit. In that moment, Kostia felt led to pray and prophesy over Irina. The Lord revealed a beautiful plan for her life—a calling to minister to others trapped in the same darkness she once knew. God showed how He would use her story to reach those involved in occult practices, leading them to the freedom found in Yeshua.
Irina’s transformation in just seven months has been nothing short of miraculous.
She has gone from being immersed in spiritual darkness to becoming a vibrant light for God’s kingdom. Her spiritual eyes have been opened, her heart burns with passion for Yeshua, and her life is a testimony to His redeeming power.
This is the God we serve—the One who calls us out of darkness into His marvelous light, who transforms hearts and gives us new purpose.
To Him be all the glory!
Amen.
