On Sunday, March 15, a deeply moving service took place at Grace Avenue Bible Church, dedicated to the healing of Pastor Pavel Shchur from cancer—a testimony of faith, persistent prayer, and God’s mercy. After more than nine months of struggle, during which he was diagnosed with stage IV lymphoma and underwent chemotherapy, Pastor Pavel stood before the congregation to share what he calls a life-changing event.
Pastor Pavel was 45 years old when doctors gave him the frightening diagnosis. He is married, and together with his wife Alina they are raising seven children. Pavel has been serving as a pastor since 2017, and over the past five years he has focused especially on ministry to new immigrants and has led several Bible study groups. His dedication to serving others made his trial and recovery especially meaningful for the church.
Pavel Shchur underwent 12 courses of chemotherapy. The first five were especially difficult. His treatment schedule was repeatedly disrupted because his immune system was severely weakened, and he contracted viral infections three times. During those periods, doctors had to pause or cancel treatment. At times he was so weak that he could barely move, could not even put on shoes or dress himself, and several times it seemed that hope was almost gone. After the fifth course—starting in October 2025—the remaining seven treatments proceeded on schedule and much more successfully; at that point, doctors said there was real hope—the cancer was receding. Throughout all these trials, Pastor Pavel continued to pray for God’s mercy and held firmly to his faith.
During the March 15 service, Pastor Pavel and Alina spoke not only about spiritual support but also about practical steps that aided his recovery. They shared the doctors’ recommendations regarding nutrition and daily routine that they followed to support his immune system during chemotherapy. During the service, the Word of God was naturally woven into their testimony, emphasizing perseverance, gratitude, and the conviction that God works through both prayer and practical care, helping one pass through the “valley of the shadow of death.”
During his illness, Pastor Pavel also lost his well-paying job as a long-haul truck driver, which added financial and emotional strain to the family. Now, having recovered, he plans to begin a new job and is deeply inspired by life free from cancer and the opportunity to continue serving others.
Pavel Shchur addressed those facing serious illness with these words:
“I know that there are many people with cancer or very serious diseases. In this difficult time, I want to encourage you: do not lose heart and do not isolate yourself. Ask others to support you; believe in healing from God. I want to encourage you—if God could heal me from stage IV lymphoma, He is able to heal you as well. Therefore, never lose hope and never give up.”
Pastor Pavel expressed his willingness to share his testimony with others. If your church would like to invite him to speak about his journey of healing and the strengthening power of faith, he is open to speaking engagements and supporting those going through similar trials.
The service on March 15 was not just a celebration of one person’s healing. It was a testimony to the power of prayer, the unity of the Church, and the hope that is born from trusting God in the midst of suffering.
A recording of his interview can be viewed at the provided link (in Russian only).
Svetlana Iotko
