From Addiction to Ministry: Pastor Bohdan Vadis's Inspiring Journey
And Today you know, just like I said, as a pastor's kid, I didn't have a traumatic experience. I just, you know, offered a class at my congregation on forgiveness and I was shocked, you know, to walk with a group of people for Five Weeks and talk about that process of forgiveness and teach them skills and some tools.
Pastor Bohdan Vadis's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Growing up in Bemidji, Minnesota, as the son of a Lutheran pastor, Bohdan had a seemingly idyllic childhood filled with sports and academics. However, beneath the surface, he struggled with addiction from a young age. His battle with alcohol began in high school and followed him into college, leading to a series of personal and legal troubles that culminated in a DUI and a failed relationship.
Despite numerous attempts to quit drinking, including counseling, Bohdan found himself trapped in the cycle of addiction. The turning point came when he joined the Fellowship of Recovering Lutheran Clergy, a group that provided him with the support and understanding he desperately needed. Through this fellowship, Bohdan learned that addiction is a disease and that recovery requires both time and effort.
His journey was far from easy, but with the help of his faith and community, he managed to turn his life around. Today, Bohdan serves as the lead pastor of Tierrasanta Lutheran Church in San Diego, California. His experiences with addiction have not only shaped his ministry but also allowed him to help others facing similar struggles. He has served congregations in Fargo, North Dakota, and Sacramento, California, always bringing his message of hope and recovery.
One of the most challenging aspects of Bohdan's journey has been balancing his role as a recovering addict with his responsibilities as a religious leader. In the recovery community, he found acceptance and support for his vulnerabilities. However, within the church, he often faced different expectations. Despite these challenges, Bohdan has made it his mission to teach forgiveness as an essential part of the recovery process.
He even offers classes on forgiveness at his congregation, believing it to be a skill that can be taught and learned. Bohdan's story is a powerful reminder that addiction can affect anyone, regardless of their background or profession. His journey from addiction to recovery and ultimately to ministry serves as an inspiration for anyone struggling with similar issues. If you or someone you know is battling addiction, Pastor Bohdan's story offers a beacon of hope and a path toward healing.