Nikolai Nalitov, SPbCU Graduate
It often turns out that after we receive our diploma, we lay it on a shelf and forget about its existence and all that had been acquired during our long years of study. But Nikolai has not only not forgotten what was said in the lectures, he is actively applying it in his life.
A very good impression arises about a person who has received a theological education and goes not out to speak to people about God in elite places or even in places that are not dangerous. Nikolai serves God in his own country and speaks with love to the people there. So what if it's complicated; he doesn't give up, just moves forward.
God undoubtedly loves such people and doesn't desert them. ...Nikolai didn't have enough money to come to the university for study in this session of the master's program, but God blessed him in a wonderful way. A person, who heard indirectly about his need, paid for his studies. The Lord has manifested Himself in the life of this disciple so much that one testimony follows another. It was interesting to hear from Nikolai, to learn about his ministry and faith in God.
I had more questions for him. What kind of footprints has our university left behind in the memories of this former SPbCU student? In what way did his studies here influence him? I decided to find out through a personal conversation.
When did you finish at SPbCU?
In 2006.
Do you have a family?
Of course. I have a first-rate wife and a wonderful daughter.
Did you come to God long ago?
In 1991, when I was 17.
What prompted you to come to St Petersburg?
First of all, where I lived there wasn't any similar university. Secondly, it was interesting to come to St Petersburg. I wanted a theological education.
I prayed about this and after a month I told my pastor that I was going to go study in St Petersburg. He answered, "Why not? Let's pray about this." We prayed a whole year and in 2002 I handed in my application documents and entered SPbCU.
Did you have some kind of plans?
I traveled here with trepidation, not knowing what would await me. It was an absolutely new city for me; I didn't know anyone here. My wife, Natasha, and I simply arrived with the question, "Lord, what awaits us here?" What we received here surpassed all our expectations. It was simply amazing. God greatly changed us during these 4 years.
How much does the knowledge that you received at SPbCU help in your ministry?
I am very proud of the fact that I studied at SPbCU. I employ an awful lot, God gives the possibility to use what I received. I love to study the Bible independently and in groups. The skills received at the university help me in this. There is simply a treasure house of stores that I found here and which I use; I take out more and more new treasures and from this wealth I can share with other people. It is simply wonderful!
You are currently studying in the master's program?
Yes, in Biblical Studies. This is convenient for me. I live at home with my family, take care of
my work and ministry. I do the course work in my free time.
It was very interesting to talk with Nikolai, since, from my point of view, he is a hero for not giving up his country to obtain more riches. He finished his studies, received his diploma and with great love returned to serve in his own country. That which he received here, he employs in practice and with joy remembers the years spent at the university. Would that more such dedicated and loving people would come to us in Petersburg and that our city would become Christian!
Lilia Gafarova, 1st year student.