The Scottish Mission has been privileged to welcome a new pastoral family into its fold. Pastor Ratko Risteski, along with his wife Sarita and daughter Lusiana were introduced to the Paisley, Faifley and Irvine congregations at the end of 2022.
It’s been a whirlwind few months as Pastor Risteski settled into the district. And then – just a few days ago, early in February – the family celebrated the birth of beautiful twin boys into their family.
We were fortunate to sit down with Pastor Ratko before this latest event to get to know him better and it is with joy that we bring you the following interview:
SM Communication: Can you briefly introduce yourself to us?
I am Ratko Risteski, and I am certainly delighted for the opportunity to take up a ministry position in the Scottish Mission. I have been working as a pastor in North Macedonia since 2011. In eight of those years I worked as youth director and pastor of the Central Church in Skopje.
I am a family man. My wife Sarita and I have three children named Lusiana, Leon and Liam. I graduated in Theology at the Theological Seminary in Belgrade in 2011. In 2021 I completed my Master of Arts Degree in Leadership at Andrews University.
Sarita, my wife, is originally from Serbia. Her father is Peruvian. We speak several languages as a family. Sarita trained as a speech therapist, special needs educator and a nurse. In her career she has worked as a treasurer for ADRA Macedonia and, for a while, ran a project for children with special needs.
SM Communication: You’ve been a pastor for some time. Are there any experiences that stand out for you?
I value servant leadership, and I believe that guiding teams well begins with responding to the needs of others. As youth director I had the opportunity to develop and lead various teams across the country. Other experiences have also been critical in my development as a minister. Being a pastor of the thriving Central Church of Skopje has enabled me to gain experience in leading various projects such as Mission to The Cities. This included establishing and leading a centre of influence, a health club and other outreach programs in Skopje.
Serving as a pastor has taught me how to establish relationships that help others develop a deeper walk with the Lord. Spending eight years in Skopje, (starting as) a pastoral intern and being ordained in 2018 I have experienced first-hand the complexities of parish life and how to solve problems biblically whenever they arise. My many years of ministry experience have taught me how to lead, work as part of a team, to effectively communicate the Word of God to individuals of all ages and to share Christ’s love with others.
SM Communication: How will you describe your vision for Ministry?
My vision is that God will use me to reach the broken, hurt, mistreated and confused by loving them the way that He first loved me. I shall encourage, support and teach those around me to use the gifts God has given me to bring glory to His name. Lastly, my vision is that the spiritual fire inside of me, which can only be fed by God, will simply grow more and more fierce.
SM Communication: What skills do you think are important for ministry?
Working with different groups in the church has helped me to grow as a pastor in various stages, and to develop a deep understanding of the spiritual needs of people. I think it is of utmost importance to be an excellent communicator. As a Pastor you need to be willing and ready to connect with people from all walks of life. Personally, I am passionate about helping people connect with their faith and to grow in their spiritual journey. This involves looking out for the pastoral care needs that people may have and. It is an awesome privilege and responsibility to be able to provide care and in times of crisis and difficulty.
SM Communication: Do you have any hobbies and interests?
I am a keen handball and football player. In Macedonia I had the privilege of playing handball professionally. They are one of Europe’s best handball teams! Playing handball have implanted in me a deep interest in developing and investing in young people through sports activities.
Welcome to Pastor Risteski and family. We wish you God’s richest blessings in your ministry in Scotland.
