From one of the finest NYPD police officers to Evangelist: The story of our founder
Answering a Higher Calling
Casa de Ángeles Ministries Founder and Senior Evangelist Ilya Kosilov recently sat down with host Lenny Bradley on the Purpose Over Pension Podcast for an unfiltered conversation about faith, service, and answering a higher calling to follow Jesus Christ. In this powerful interview, Ilya reflects on his years of service with the NYPD, from responding to calls in the 44th Precinct to competing on the police boxing team, and shares how he stepped out in complete faith to pursue full-time ministry, realizing that God had a new, lifelong calling for his journey beyond his honorable civil service career.
Overcoming the Battles of the Street and Soul
The conversation dived deep into the intense realities of frontline law enforcement, the strong brotherhood among officers, and the heavy emotional toll that traumatic street experiences can take on the human soul. Ilya spoke candidly about how the immense stress of the job led him to rely on temporary coping mechanisms, from drinking to chasing material wealth, in an attempt to navigate the daily pressure. Even after achieving massive financial success as an entrepreneur and real estate investor, he realized his life and family were still searching for true peace until he experienced a miraculous turning point that brought him to full surrender to Jesus Christ.
Redeeming Business to Fund Kingdom Purpose
One of the most inspiring segments of the interview centered on reshaping the purpose of wealth and entrepreneurship through the lens of the Gospel. Rather than using business success for personal prestige, Ilya explained how God redeemed his real estate skills to help build a strong financial foundation for frontline ministry. Today, his business ventures actively support Kingdom work, empowering Casa de Ángeles Ministries to plant churches, support the vulnerable and continually expand our street evangelism to reach even more souls with the Gospel.
Stepping Boldly into Your God-Given Purpose
This testimony is a powerful reminder that God often uses our most challenging assignments and deepest valleys to shape His strongest warriors for the Kingdom. Whether you are a dedicated first responder carrying the heavy weight of the badge, an entrepreneur seeking true meaning in your work, or simply someone searching for a fresh start with God, this episode is packed with biblical truth and encouragement. We invite our entire community to tune in to Ilya's incredible story of redemption and step boldly into the purpose God has placed on your own life.
Note: The full interview episode is currently in post-production and will be available online soon!
If this testimony touched your heart and you want to take your next steps with Jesus, start your journey right now at newbeliever.casadeangelesministries.org.