Sis. Ira
Baptism of Sis. Ira
Sis. Diana
Baptism of Diana of Balti
Thursday, May 8, 2008
A Note of Explanation
I asked Steve and Dan to write a "brief" summary of our trip. If you know either of them you know that "brief" is not in their vocabulary! However, here are their rather lengthy summaries of our trip. Read and Enjoy!!
A Summary of Our Trip
Moldova April 7 to April 25, 2008
Traveling to a foreign country to teach the word of God is an opportunity with some challenges but great rewards. On April 7, 2008 six of us (Connie and Steve Niemeier, Sid Latham, John Smith, and Ernestine and Daniel Byers) left JFK airport for Chisinau, Moldova. John Smith had been several times, Steve once, Sid, Connie, Ernestine and myself had never been. Our goal was to work with Christians in Moldova to strengthen and encourage them and to make contacts with unbelievers to present the gospel to them. We knew of four congregations and had made contact with them prior to the trip.
When we arrived and completed our arrangements we split up into three groups of two to work with the four congregations. Connie and Ernestine traveled approximately 70 miles north of Chisinau to Balti. They spent four days with a congregation comprised of ladies. This was a great act of faith on the part of Connie and Ernestine since they had never met any of the ladies, could not speak their language, would live in local housing, and eat whatever food that was available. With all these challenges their greatest concern was the teaching that they were going to be doing at Balti. To facilitate the studies, arrangements had been made for a translator named Diana to be available for the classes. She is a very capable young lady and provided the spoken communication at Balti. The success of these four days was truly amazing. Connie and Ernestine were able to make friendships with the ladies quicker and in ways that no men teachers could have. The two of them set before the ladies examples of Christian love and cooperation, giving them valuable lessons on how to get along in Christ. The ladies at Balti demonstrated their appreciation through acts of love and kindness for Connie and Ernestine. In addition the Christians at Balti the translator Diana developed a respect for them and agreed to a private Bible study which resulted in her being baptized.
While the ladies were at Balti, Sid and John spent time studying and encouraging the Christians in Chisinau. Steve and I traveled to Bendari and Tiraspol to study with the Christians in these two cities. I was greatly encouraged by the willingness of individuals to meet at times that we had available. In our studies we primarily focused on the independent responsibility of each congregation to Christ and the need for each member to become an active part of the congregation. Their response to the scriptures was with respect and conviction. The congregation at Bendari made the determination that they would cease being controlled by an outside congregation which was determining who could speak in their assemblies. This decision was made with the knowledge that their preacher Alexander would probably lose his support and that they would lose their place of assembly. One observation for those who travel in other countries where there are congregations of Christians is that we must respect congregational independence and ask each congregation for permission to speak. Alexander the preacher demonstrated a love for God that is admirable. We came to love him as a teacher and translator. It is great when your translator can give you the scripture reference when you are looking for it. The church in Tiraspol has a knowledgeable Bible teacher in Vasily who demonstrated an interest in knowing the scriptures and in sharing them with others. We were able to spend some time discussing how to teach the gospel to unbelievers; however I believe that it would be good for future teams to spend more time on this and allocate time for going with the Christians to teach.
After four days of work with individual congregations we all returned to Chisinau for the Bible Conference. The conference was time spent in Bible teaching and relationship building. There was great benefit in bringing the Christians together from the four cities. The Christians who are few in number sometimes feel like Elijah, “they are alone”. Being together for the studies gave them the opportunity to see that there are other Christians in Moldova who are dealing with the same problems as they. It also gave them an opportunity to build love for each other. For those of us who were teachers it gave us the opportunity to reach greater numbers in a shorter period of time. One thing that seemed to help with the conference was that we had gone to the individual congregations prior to the conference and had become acquainted with the Christians. When the conference and teaching started we were familiar with each other creating interaction which improved the teaching. A highlight of the conference was the question and answer session that was conducted each day. Many thoughtful questions were asked. John, Steve and Sid did an excellent job of responding to the questions with answers from the scriptures. Seeing Steve baptize Ira from Bendari in water that was over his head was also a great moment.
In addition to the work among the Christians we were able make contacts with others. We are greatly indebted to Ira and Anna for their efforts in setting up appointments with the orphanage and the university. We were able to meet with the two groups because each of them has credibility from previous work that they have done. Ira volunteers at the orphanage regularly teaching bible classes. We were well received by the administrator, given a tour of the facilities and given an opportunity to teach a class to the children. Connie and Ernestine presented two lessons while Ira translated. The response of the children to Ira demonstrated that she is doing a good work at the orphanage. The children also were very attentive to the lessons even though we intruded on supper time a few minutes. Visiting the orphanage was difficult because our hearts were broken. As expected we encountered some Good Samaritan needs and were able to address some of them. However I believe that it is important that we go back and check as the Samaritan did. Our primary goal will always be to teach the gospel but we cannot forget to be a Samaritan.
Anna was able to arrange for us to speak to students studying English at the University Pedagogica. Two classes of students studying English were assembled for a cultural exchange with some “English” speaking Americans. We introduced ourselves and told the students why we were in Moldova. Following that we invited questions from the students hoping for questions about God. It was then that the teacher wrote on the board the word Beelzebub. This was all that was needed to start an excellent discussion that lasted for our allotted time period. Following the discussion one student requested a copy of the English bible which we were able to give to her a few days later. This was a great opportunity to sow the seed.
We owe a great thank you to two Christians in Chisinau named Serghei. Both of these individuals meet us at the airport on arrival and delivered us to the airport at 5:00 in the morning on departure. Serghei Vinocurovs is married to Ira. They have two beautiful little girls. Serghei V transported us in his van, translated for us at Balti, and he and Ira welcomed us into their home and showed us their love. He teaches in Balti and Chisinau when needed. He and Ira have a love for people and helping others.
Serghei Corcimaru is married to Anna. They have two beautiful children, a girl and a boy. Sirghei preaches for the church at Chisinau and travels to Balti, Tiraspol and Bendari to teach. He made most of the arrangements for the Bible Conference, translated in Chisinau and made sure that we had all the things that we needed while in Moldova. He and Anna had us in their home and showed us great hospitality. Sirghei C is very knowledgeable in the scriptures has a commitment to God and is a trustworthy servant of the Lord.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a capable team; Ernestine, Connie, Steve, John and Sid. The team worked together with the same goals from the beginning, prayed regularly and helped each other. For individuals thinking about traveling to a foreign country, find a team, define your goals, trust in the Lord, and go.
Daniel Byers
From My Perspective
By Steve Niemeier
When I was asked my John Smith to accompany him to Moldova in 2006 I had very mixed emotions. He had asked before and I put him off for what was probably nothing more than fear. Yet, as I look back on that trip it was one of the highlights of my life. I thought it would be the only trip that I would go on oversees to teach the gospel. However, much like Jeremiah the burning was great within me to visit my brothers and sisters in Moldova once again.
The decision was made to go back and participate in the 2008 Bible Lectureship/Conference. John having some health issues was not able to make a trip in 2007 and there was some question whether he would be able to go in 2008. However, even though I had only been once I felt that we could assemble a team to work together and accomplish our goals. The goals were simple,
1. Spread the seed of the word of God.
2. Try to edify a congregation made up entirely of ladies by having two experience ladies from the US to go and work with them.
3. Using these same ladies talents to teach children’s classes and to assist in training some ladies to become teachers themselves.
4. Edify the local congregations in Chisinau, Balti and Tiraspol.
5. Study with the congregation in Bendari and try to reason with them to remove themselves from an unscriptural sponsoring church arrangement with an US institutional congregation.
6. Teach some classes at the Universities and the orphanage.
7. Try to make new contacts and conduct private studies as much as possible.
8. Assist in giving Serghei Corcimaru a well-deserved break.
The task was made easier when John asked if he could assist in the planning and hopefully accompany us on the trip. We then took on the task of assembling a team of qualified teachers to help us accomplish the goals that we had set. How fortunate we were to secure the individuals that we did. Daniel Byers an elder with the Fayette congregation in the Lexington, KY area and his wife Ernestine agreed to be a part of the effort. Sid Latham working with the congregation in Bargersville, IN agreed to work with us on this trip. Connie Niemeier agreed to go and do what she could to assist.
The team was complete. We had been blessed with the two experienced ladies we needed. We were fortunate to have the great talent of Sid and Daniel. John Smith was enjoying better health. It seemed the Lord was certainly blessing our efforts and the trip was not even under way as of yet.
Next was the task of planning the lessons and then assigning them. The whole team was involved and all did a great job in preparing the lessons. While the preparations were under way we faced the devaluing of the US dollar and that was a major concern for us. However, our US brethren met this obstacle and blessed us with the funds to make the trip.
The trip produced more increase than any of us could have anticipated. It is amazing the increase God can give when proper planting and water is administered. Two conversions --- one directly because of the efforts of Ernestine and Connie, one a young lady from Bendari who studied with several but was encouraged by Alexander and Serghei C., and a whole congregation who repented of their unscriptural oversight. One of the best if not the best class at one of the universities, a great Bible conference with break out sessions for both men and women, and many studies with all the congregations in Moldova.
Seventy-one lessons presented publicly in 16 days not counting some private studies and hours of talking with members, non-members and one another about the gospel of Christ and the work in Moldova. The team was excellent, no words can describe their dedication, love and concern for the cause of Christ in Moldova and the brothers and sisters there. We shared both tears of joy and sorrow and yet the one thing that stands out most to me is the sharing of brotherly and sisterly love in Christ to accomplish the work we needed to do.
I want to express my sincere thanks to Connie, Ernestine, John, Sid, and Daniel for their energy and dedication to the task. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the US brothers and sisters who gave financially for this endeavor to occur and for all who prayed for our safety and our efforts on this trip. I would like to say a special thank-you to the members of the congregation at Greenwood where Connie and I attend for supporting us abundantly to make this trip. However, none of this would be possible if were not for God our Creator and the One who loved us enough to send His Son for us. This is the common thread that binds our brothers and sisters in Moldova with those of us in the USA who are also joint heirs with them in Chirst.
Traveling to a foreign country to teach the word of God is an opportunity with some challenges but great rewards. On April 7, 2008 six of us (Connie and Steve Niemeier, Sid Latham, John Smith, and Ernestine and Daniel Byers) left JFK airport for Chisinau, Moldova. John Smith had been several times, Steve once, Sid, Connie, Ernestine and myself had never been. Our goal was to work with Christians in Moldova to strengthen and encourage them and to make contacts with unbelievers to present the gospel to them. We knew of four congregations and had made contact with them prior to the trip.
When we arrived and completed our arrangements we split up into three groups of two to work with the four congregations. Connie and Ernestine traveled approximately 70 miles north of Chisinau to Balti. They spent four days with a congregation comprised of ladies. This was a great act of faith on the part of Connie and Ernestine since they had never met any of the ladies, could not speak their language, would live in local housing, and eat whatever food that was available. With all these challenges their greatest concern was the teaching that they were going to be doing at Balti. To facilitate the studies, arrangements had been made for a translator named Diana to be available for the classes. She is a very capable young lady and provided the spoken communication at Balti. The success of these four days was truly amazing. Connie and Ernestine were able to make friendships with the ladies quicker and in ways that no men teachers could have. The two of them set before the ladies examples of Christian love and cooperation, giving them valuable lessons on how to get along in Christ. The ladies at Balti demonstrated their appreciation through acts of love and kindness for Connie and Ernestine. In addition the Christians at Balti the translator Diana developed a respect for them and agreed to a private Bible study which resulted in her being baptized.
While the ladies were at Balti, Sid and John spent time studying and encouraging the Christians in Chisinau. Steve and I traveled to Bendari and Tiraspol to study with the Christians in these two cities. I was greatly encouraged by the willingness of individuals to meet at times that we had available. In our studies we primarily focused on the independent responsibility of each congregation to Christ and the need for each member to become an active part of the congregation. Their response to the scriptures was with respect and conviction. The congregation at Bendari made the determination that they would cease being controlled by an outside congregation which was determining who could speak in their assemblies. This decision was made with the knowledge that their preacher Alexander would probably lose his support and that they would lose their place of assembly. One observation for those who travel in other countries where there are congregations of Christians is that we must respect congregational independence and ask each congregation for permission to speak. Alexander the preacher demonstrated a love for God that is admirable. We came to love him as a teacher and translator. It is great when your translator can give you the scripture reference when you are looking for it. The church in Tiraspol has a knowledgeable Bible teacher in Vasily who demonstrated an interest in knowing the scriptures and in sharing them with others. We were able to spend some time discussing how to teach the gospel to unbelievers; however I believe that it would be good for future teams to spend more time on this and allocate time for going with the Christians to teach.
After four days of work with individual congregations we all returned to Chisinau for the Bible Conference. The conference was time spent in Bible teaching and relationship building. There was great benefit in bringing the Christians together from the four cities. The Christians who are few in number sometimes feel like Elijah, “they are alone”. Being together for the studies gave them the opportunity to see that there are other Christians in Moldova who are dealing with the same problems as they. It also gave them an opportunity to build love for each other. For those of us who were teachers it gave us the opportunity to reach greater numbers in a shorter period of time. One thing that seemed to help with the conference was that we had gone to the individual congregations prior to the conference and had become acquainted with the Christians. When the conference and teaching started we were familiar with each other creating interaction which improved the teaching. A highlight of the conference was the question and answer session that was conducted each day. Many thoughtful questions were asked. John, Steve and Sid did an excellent job of responding to the questions with answers from the scriptures. Seeing Steve baptize Ira from Bendari in water that was over his head was also a great moment.
In addition to the work among the Christians we were able make contacts with others. We are greatly indebted to Ira and Anna for their efforts in setting up appointments with the orphanage and the university. We were able to meet with the two groups because each of them has credibility from previous work that they have done. Ira volunteers at the orphanage regularly teaching bible classes. We were well received by the administrator, given a tour of the facilities and given an opportunity to teach a class to the children. Connie and Ernestine presented two lessons while Ira translated. The response of the children to Ira demonstrated that she is doing a good work at the orphanage. The children also were very attentive to the lessons even though we intruded on supper time a few minutes. Visiting the orphanage was difficult because our hearts were broken. As expected we encountered some Good Samaritan needs and were able to address some of them. However I believe that it is important that we go back and check as the Samaritan did. Our primary goal will always be to teach the gospel but we cannot forget to be a Samaritan.
Anna was able to arrange for us to speak to students studying English at the University Pedagogica. Two classes of students studying English were assembled for a cultural exchange with some “English” speaking Americans. We introduced ourselves and told the students why we were in Moldova. Following that we invited questions from the students hoping for questions about God. It was then that the teacher wrote on the board the word Beelzebub. This was all that was needed to start an excellent discussion that lasted for our allotted time period. Following the discussion one student requested a copy of the English bible which we were able to give to her a few days later. This was a great opportunity to sow the seed.
We owe a great thank you to two Christians in Chisinau named Serghei. Both of these individuals meet us at the airport on arrival and delivered us to the airport at 5:00 in the morning on departure. Serghei Vinocurovs is married to Ira. They have two beautiful little girls. Serghei V transported us in his van, translated for us at Balti, and he and Ira welcomed us into their home and showed us their love. He teaches in Balti and Chisinau when needed. He and Ira have a love for people and helping others.
Serghei Corcimaru is married to Anna. They have two beautiful children, a girl and a boy. Sirghei preaches for the church at Chisinau and travels to Balti, Tiraspol and Bendari to teach. He made most of the arrangements for the Bible Conference, translated in Chisinau and made sure that we had all the things that we needed while in Moldova. He and Anna had us in their home and showed us great hospitality. Sirghei C is very knowledgeable in the scriptures has a commitment to God and is a trustworthy servant of the Lord.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a capable team; Ernestine, Connie, Steve, John and Sid. The team worked together with the same goals from the beginning, prayed regularly and helped each other. For individuals thinking about traveling to a foreign country, find a team, define your goals, trust in the Lord, and go.
Daniel Byers
From My Perspective
By Steve Niemeier
When I was asked my John Smith to accompany him to Moldova in 2006 I had very mixed emotions. He had asked before and I put him off for what was probably nothing more than fear. Yet, as I look back on that trip it was one of the highlights of my life. I thought it would be the only trip that I would go on oversees to teach the gospel. However, much like Jeremiah the burning was great within me to visit my brothers and sisters in Moldova once again.
The decision was made to go back and participate in the 2008 Bible Lectureship/Conference. John having some health issues was not able to make a trip in 2007 and there was some question whether he would be able to go in 2008. However, even though I had only been once I felt that we could assemble a team to work together and accomplish our goals. The goals were simple,
1. Spread the seed of the word of God.
2. Try to edify a congregation made up entirely of ladies by having two experience ladies from the US to go and work with them.
3. Using these same ladies talents to teach children’s classes and to assist in training some ladies to become teachers themselves.
4. Edify the local congregations in Chisinau, Balti and Tiraspol.
5. Study with the congregation in Bendari and try to reason with them to remove themselves from an unscriptural sponsoring church arrangement with an US institutional congregation.
6. Teach some classes at the Universities and the orphanage.
7. Try to make new contacts and conduct private studies as much as possible.
8. Assist in giving Serghei Corcimaru a well-deserved break.
The task was made easier when John asked if he could assist in the planning and hopefully accompany us on the trip. We then took on the task of assembling a team of qualified teachers to help us accomplish the goals that we had set. How fortunate we were to secure the individuals that we did. Daniel Byers an elder with the Fayette congregation in the Lexington, KY area and his wife Ernestine agreed to be a part of the effort. Sid Latham working with the congregation in Bargersville, IN agreed to work with us on this trip. Connie Niemeier agreed to go and do what she could to assist.
The team was complete. We had been blessed with the two experienced ladies we needed. We were fortunate to have the great talent of Sid and Daniel. John Smith was enjoying better health. It seemed the Lord was certainly blessing our efforts and the trip was not even under way as of yet.
Next was the task of planning the lessons and then assigning them. The whole team was involved and all did a great job in preparing the lessons. While the preparations were under way we faced the devaluing of the US dollar and that was a major concern for us. However, our US brethren met this obstacle and blessed us with the funds to make the trip.
The trip produced more increase than any of us could have anticipated. It is amazing the increase God can give when proper planting and water is administered. Two conversions --- one directly because of the efforts of Ernestine and Connie, one a young lady from Bendari who studied with several but was encouraged by Alexander and Serghei C., and a whole congregation who repented of their unscriptural oversight. One of the best if not the best class at one of the universities, a great Bible conference with break out sessions for both men and women, and many studies with all the congregations in Moldova.
Seventy-one lessons presented publicly in 16 days not counting some private studies and hours of talking with members, non-members and one another about the gospel of Christ and the work in Moldova. The team was excellent, no words can describe their dedication, love and concern for the cause of Christ in Moldova and the brothers and sisters there. We shared both tears of joy and sorrow and yet the one thing that stands out most to me is the sharing of brotherly and sisterly love in Christ to accomplish the work we needed to do.
I want to express my sincere thanks to Connie, Ernestine, John, Sid, and Daniel for their energy and dedication to the task. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the US brothers and sisters who gave financially for this endeavor to occur and for all who prayed for our safety and our efforts on this trip. I would like to say a special thank-you to the members of the congregation at Greenwood where Connie and I attend for supporting us abundantly to make this trip. However, none of this would be possible if were not for God our Creator and the One who loved us enough to send His Son for us. This is the common thread that binds our brothers and sisters in Moldova with those of us in the USA who are also joint heirs with them in Chirst.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
We head home tomorrow. It's a good thing because we have all spent our energy. We are a pretty motley lot today. We are resting and packing today and will have our last study with the church in Chisinau this evening. It has been a blessing to be here. The Lord has been very good to us and has blessed our labor. To God be the glory!
I probably won't post again until we are home. All six members of our team are writing a brief statement about our work. I will notify you when that is posted.
Please pray for our safe travel tomorrow.
I probably won't post again until we are home. All six members of our team are writing a brief statement about our work. I will notify you when that is posted.
Please pray for our safe travel tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
It has been a cool and rainy day.
All six of us went to Benderi today where we had a Bible study. The ladies studied while the men had a roung table discussion about evangelism. The study was preceded by a driving tour of Tiraspol allowing the ladies to catch a glimpse of Traneistra. The ladies of Benderi prepared a lovely meal for us that unfortunately we could not eat due to time constraints.
This evening we had our last study from Rev. 2 & 3 studying the church at Laodecia. Daniel provided the background and I taught the text of the letter. We has good attention and good introspection.
Tomorrow night we will have a farewell meeting with the church in Chisinau. Each of the men will take about 10 minutes to present a short talk and farewell. Tomorrow will be our last full day in Chisuinau. We hope to do some shopping, packing and resting. Our flight leaves early Friday morning.
It has been a pleasure being here. We have had a great team that has worked well together. God has been good to us.
When Steve comes home ask him about falling out the booth at Andy's Pizza.
All six of us went to Benderi today where we had a Bible study. The ladies studied while the men had a roung table discussion about evangelism. The study was preceded by a driving tour of Tiraspol allowing the ladies to catch a glimpse of Traneistra. The ladies of Benderi prepared a lovely meal for us that unfortunately we could not eat due to time constraints.
This evening we had our last study from Rev. 2 & 3 studying the church at Laodecia. Daniel provided the background and I taught the text of the letter. We has good attention and good introspection.
Tomorrow night we will have a farewell meeting with the church in Chisinau. Each of the men will take about 10 minutes to present a short talk and farewell. Tomorrow will be our last full day in Chisuinau. We hope to do some shopping, packing and resting. Our flight leaves early Friday morning.
It has been a pleasure being here. We have had a great team that has worked well together. God has been good to us.
When Steve comes home ask him about falling out the booth at Andy's Pizza.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
We had a great day today. Sid's day wasn't so great as he spent much of the day feeling poorly. We had to leave him behind int he flat while the rest of enjoyed the day.
Serghei & Ira invited us to their home this morning to enjoy their hospitality and discuss how they can contribute to the Lord's work. Their home in the village of Cricova is very small and shared with Ira's 94 year old grandmother. While their house is small, it is large in terms of love and hospitality. Ira served us a delicious cake and Serghei's homemade compote. The two of them truly have servants hearts and are very active in the Lord's work. While we were there, Ira received a call that proved to be a wrong number. This guy has called many times before. Ira invited him to church. On the phone with a wrong number, she tried to turn it into a teaching opportunity. Wow!!
Ira accompanied us to the orphanage. The taxi ride from Cricova to the orphanage was a real adventure. It seemed that the taxis were racing and I quite counting the near misses. But, with the Lord's blessing we made it. I know of no other way to explain how we had a safe trip. After a tour of the facilities, Connie and Ernestine taught a Bible class.
Tonight we studied the church in Philadelphia. Steve gave the background and Sid lead the discussion of the text. It was obvious that the church members had read and studied ahead of time. It was a good class.
After our study, Ernestine and Connie were treated to their first Andy's pizza. Even with corn on the pizza, they seemed to enjoy it.
Tomorrow we go back to Benderi for a study.
God bless all of you.
Serghei & Ira invited us to their home this morning to enjoy their hospitality and discuss how they can contribute to the Lord's work. Their home in the village of Cricova is very small and shared with Ira's 94 year old grandmother. While their house is small, it is large in terms of love and hospitality. Ira served us a delicious cake and Serghei's homemade compote. The two of them truly have servants hearts and are very active in the Lord's work. While we were there, Ira received a call that proved to be a wrong number. This guy has called many times before. Ira invited him to church. On the phone with a wrong number, she tried to turn it into a teaching opportunity. Wow!!
Ira accompanied us to the orphanage. The taxi ride from Cricova to the orphanage was a real adventure. It seemed that the taxis were racing and I quite counting the near misses. But, with the Lord's blessing we made it. I know of no other way to explain how we had a safe trip. After a tour of the facilities, Connie and Ernestine taught a Bible class.
Tonight we studied the church in Philadelphia. Steve gave the background and Sid lead the discussion of the text. It was obvious that the church members had read and studied ahead of time. It was a good class.
After our study, Ernestine and Connie were treated to their first Andy's pizza. Even with corn on the pizza, they seemed to enjoy it.
Tomorrow we go back to Benderi for a study.
God bless all of you.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Our last Lord’s Day drew to a close on a delicious note. Sis. Kate invited all six of us to her home for a meal. Her hospitality was terrific. It was a heart-warming expression of her love and gratitude. Her home is small and humble, yet the appreciation she expressed touched all of our hearts, not to mention filling our bellies. When I first met Kate, I began calling her, “Kate the Sweet.” She has not let us down and continues to excel in her generosity and graciousness.
Steve, Connie, Dan and Ernestine traveled to Balti where the ladies taught a Bible study while the men waited outside watching the chickens eat leeches. Daniel presided over the Lord’s Table giving a typical 30 minute talk around the table. Steve followed with a lesson on the Lord’s charge to Joshua. They repeated the same lessons in Chisinau. Sid and I traveled to Tiraspol for worship at 10:00 and then on to Benderi at 12:00 for worship with those saints. Sid presented lessons on Haggai and practical evangelism. I spoke at the Lord ’s Table both places discussing the nature of sacrifice and John 13. It was a tiring day, yet one full of joy and rewarding labor. All six of returned to Chisinau in time for a 5:00 worship and Bible study with the church.
We are exhausted and longing for sleep. Tomorrow promises to be another busy day. Sleep will be sweet. Good night and God bless.
Steve, Connie, Dan and Ernestine traveled to Balti where the ladies taught a Bible study while the men waited outside watching the chickens eat leeches. Daniel presided over the Lord’s Table giving a typical 30 minute talk around the table. Steve followed with a lesson on the Lord’s charge to Joshua. They repeated the same lessons in Chisinau. Sid and I traveled to Tiraspol for worship at 10:00 and then on to Benderi at 12:00 for worship with those saints. Sid presented lessons on Haggai and practical evangelism. I spoke at the Lord ’s Table both places discussing the nature of sacrifice and John 13. It was a tiring day, yet one full of joy and rewarding labor. All six of returned to Chisinau in time for a 5:00 worship and Bible study with the church.
We are exhausted and longing for sleep. Tomorrow promises to be another busy day. Sleep will be sweet. Good night and God bless.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
The close of the 2008 Conference
The 2008 edition of the All Moldova Bible Conference drew to a close today amidst shouts of joy and tears of parting. We had nearly 50 precious souls in attendence and all appeared to listen well and participate with enthuasism.
Our conference was draw to a close with two wonderful lessons. Sid spoke of following Jesus all the way, even to the cross. Steve spoke on the great apostacy when men turned their hearts from God.
At the close of the conference, we shared all the generous gifts that were provided by various Christians in the States. It was inspiring to see the joy with which these simple gifts were received.
As we closed the conference, all six of us were exhausted, but it was a most pleasnant exhaustion. No one had held back and expended every ounce of energy in teaching the Bible and sharing the good news of the love of Jesus.
Daniel Byers added: Having the Christians together and interact together help build momentom and they had an opportunity to see the faith of others in action. The conference helped build their faith. It was a bit like Elijah finding the 7000 prophets who had not bowed the knees to Baal. The conference provided another opportunity to share the Gospel with folks that otherwise we would not have had the chance to reach. The benefit of having the ladies alomng changed the whole dynamics between the teachers and the Christians. Connie and Emergine helped to help break down the baarriers that otherwise would have existed between the men teacher and the saints.
Praise God for His blessings on the conference.
Our conference was draw to a close with two wonderful lessons. Sid spoke of following Jesus all the way, even to the cross. Steve spoke on the great apostacy when men turned their hearts from God.
At the close of the conference, we shared all the generous gifts that were provided by various Christians in the States. It was inspiring to see the joy with which these simple gifts were received.
As we closed the conference, all six of us were exhausted, but it was a most pleasnant exhaustion. No one had held back and expended every ounce of energy in teaching the Bible and sharing the good news of the love of Jesus.
Daniel Byers added: Having the Christians together and interact together help build momentom and they had an opportunity to see the faith of others in action. The conference helped build their faith. It was a bit like Elijah finding the 7000 prophets who had not bowed the knees to Baal. The conference provided another opportunity to share the Gospel with folks that otherwise we would not have had the chance to reach. The benefit of having the ladies alomng changed the whole dynamics between the teachers and the Christians. Connie and Emergine helped to help break down the baarriers that otherwise would have existed between the men teacher and the saints.
Praise God for His blessings on the conference.
Two New Sisters!!
To God be the glory, great things He has done! By the close of today, we have two new sisters in the body of Christ.
Diana, the translator from Balti, agreed to personal studies with Ernestine and Connie. They studies yesterday and again tonight. She is a very bright young lady who h as translated for other teams of Americans. Yesterday was the first time she agreed to study one-on-one with anyone. Ernestine and Connie did a great job in leading Diana through the final stages of her questions. We went to a nearby sauna where Daniel baptized her into Christ. What a joy the evening was and how the sisters from Balti rejoiced.
Upon our return to the Institute, we were informed that Ira, a young lady from Benderi also was interested in being baptized. Serghei spent several hours studying and talking with her. Alexander, from Benderi, had been giving this young lady English lessons using the Bible as the textbook. I think that there must have been more Bible study than English study. The entire church at Benderi spoke with Ira and determined she did know enough and knew what she was doing. Due to Alexander’s ill health and Serghei feeling poorly, Steve agreed to baptize her.
Connie and Ernestine wondered if their accompanying us on this trip was worth the expense. I’ll leave the answer to you. How much value can we attach to a soul? We have been blessed to enjoyed their company. The sisters in Moldova have had their hearts stirred to love them and grow in love for one another as they watch their example and listen to their teaching. Connie and Ernestine are valuable members of our team and have contributed to the Lord’s work immeasurably.
Two new sisters. Let us blend our voices with angelic choirs who rejoice over two lost souls that have now been found.
Diana, the translator from Balti, agreed to personal studies with Ernestine and Connie. They studies yesterday and again tonight. She is a very bright young lady who h as translated for other teams of Americans. Yesterday was the first time she agreed to study one-on-one with anyone. Ernestine and Connie did a great job in leading Diana through the final stages of her questions. We went to a nearby sauna where Daniel baptized her into Christ. What a joy the evening was and how the sisters from Balti rejoiced.
Upon our return to the Institute, we were informed that Ira, a young lady from Benderi also was interested in being baptized. Serghei spent several hours studying and talking with her. Alexander, from Benderi, had been giving this young lady English lessons using the Bible as the textbook. I think that there must have been more Bible study than English study. The entire church at Benderi spoke with Ira and determined she did know enough and knew what she was doing. Due to Alexander’s ill health and Serghei feeling poorly, Steve agreed to baptize her.
Connie and Ernestine wondered if their accompanying us on this trip was worth the expense. I’ll leave the answer to you. How much value can we attach to a soul? We have been blessed to enjoyed their company. The sisters in Moldova have had their hearts stirred to love them and grow in love for one another as they watch their example and listen to their teaching. Connie and Ernestine are valuable members of our team and have contributed to the Lord’s work immeasurably.
Two new sisters. Let us blend our voices with angelic choirs who rejoice over two lost souls that have now been found.
Day 2 - Conference
One by one the brethren came with their conference book and asked us to autograph them. It was a humbling experience for it was the six of us who should have been seeking their autographs. We are nothing more than imperfect vessels into which the Lord has trusted His truth.
Our morning dealt with the church in prophecy. Sid spoke from Isaiah 50 to describe the Lord’s ideal disciple. I followed with prophecies dealing with the character of kingdom citizens. Dan drew the morning to a close with a lesson on the peaceful nature of the kingdom.
Vacily, the preacher in Tiraspol, has agreed to speak at the next conference. Alexander, the preacher in Benderi, has also agreed to speak. We have also asked Serghei Vinocurvo has been invited to speak. What wonderful growth! We are seeing signs that indicate that the Christians in Moldova are maturing. Imagine next year – each days keynote speaker being a Moldovan! Great progress has been made.
Our translators, 1 & 2 Peter, have been wonderful men with which to work. Today, 2 Peter brought has 8 month pregnant wife who stayed and listened all day. Also, 2 Peter spoke of the meatiness and depth of our lectures. Both of our translators are listening as well as translating. We have given them some serious things about which to think.
In the afternoon Sid presented an inspiring lesson on the service of Jesus as a model for our discipleship. It was a wonderful lesson and well received by the brethren. We had our last break-out sessions with Daniel teaching lessons on men as fathers, husbands, and leaders in the church.
Our morning dealt with the church in prophecy. Sid spoke from Isaiah 50 to describe the Lord’s ideal disciple. I followed with prophecies dealing with the character of kingdom citizens. Dan drew the morning to a close with a lesson on the peaceful nature of the kingdom.
Vacily, the preacher in Tiraspol, has agreed to speak at the next conference. Alexander, the preacher in Benderi, has also agreed to speak. We have also asked Serghei Vinocurvo has been invited to speak. What wonderful growth! We are seeing signs that indicate that the Christians in Moldova are maturing. Imagine next year – each days keynote speaker being a Moldovan! Great progress has been made.
Our translators, 1 & 2 Peter, have been wonderful men with which to work. Today, 2 Peter brought has 8 month pregnant wife who stayed and listened all day. Also, 2 Peter spoke of the meatiness and depth of our lectures. Both of our translators are listening as well as translating. We have given them some serious things about which to think.
In the afternoon Sid presented an inspiring lesson on the service of Jesus as a model for our discipleship. It was a wonderful lesson and well received by the brethren. We had our last break-out sessions with Daniel teaching lessons on men as fathers, husbands, and leaders in the church.
2008 Conference - Day 1
With the excitement befitting family reunion, brethren from four Moldovan cities greeted one another with hugs, kisses and smiles. What a wonderful way in which to begin the 2008 Moldovan conference. There were smiles; lots of laughter; and joy all around. Our brethren greeted one another and welcomed us Americans with the kindest of hospitality. It was a heart-warming beginning to our conference. In preparation for the conference Steve, Sid and Daniel worked hard carrying supplies and making sure they had been distributed. To facilitate note-taking and serious study, we provided each person with a note pad and pen.
There were many emotional moments. A older sister from Balti came up to hug Sid and with halting English said, “I love you.” That was not an isolated event. I was especially moved by the concern expressed by many brethren over my health and expressions of joy that I was able to return. Among the shouts of joy a few tears were suppressed as we observed and received the joy of our brethren.
After a few minutes of singing, I had the blessing of opening the 2008 conference. I spoke from Luke 13 on the desire of Jesus to gather the people together under the safety of His wings. It seemed to be well received even when I spoke of the possibility of bring tears to the eyes of our Savior by rejecting His call.
After that lesson we entered into break-out sessions with Dan and Steve speaking to the men and Connie and Ernestine speaking to the ladies. The ladies studied the woman’s role in the church with Steve and Dan presenting lessons on the role of man in creation. Sixteen men were present for the men’s break-out session. Among the Moldovans men from three congregations were represented.
After and enjoyable supper together, we returned for a period of singing. Following the singing, we entered into a question/answer session. Each question was submitted in writing giving us a few minutes to collect our thoughts before speaking. I took the first question (an easy one) giving the rest of the team time to begin formulating their answers. Questions were submitted on a wide range of topics. Among the questions were ones involving the nature of repentance, the nature of the kingdom heaven and earth, should every one teach, should we drink blood and what was the last work that Jesus did before the crucifixion.
During the q/a session, Connie and Ernestine conducted a private study with Diana the translator from Balti. She is an extremely sweet and intelligent young lady. She is interested in spiritual matters and searching for truth. Please pray for Diana’s search for truth.
A total of 43 people attended the conference.
We are now grabbing a few hours of rest before beginning a very long and difficult day tomorrow. God be praised for the day He placed into our hands.
There were many emotional moments. A older sister from Balti came up to hug Sid and with halting English said, “I love you.” That was not an isolated event. I was especially moved by the concern expressed by many brethren over my health and expressions of joy that I was able to return. Among the shouts of joy a few tears were suppressed as we observed and received the joy of our brethren.
After a few minutes of singing, I had the blessing of opening the 2008 conference. I spoke from Luke 13 on the desire of Jesus to gather the people together under the safety of His wings. It seemed to be well received even when I spoke of the possibility of bring tears to the eyes of our Savior by rejecting His call.
After that lesson we entered into break-out sessions with Dan and Steve speaking to the men and Connie and Ernestine speaking to the ladies. The ladies studied the woman’s role in the church with Steve and Dan presenting lessons on the role of man in creation. Sixteen men were present for the men’s break-out session. Among the Moldovans men from three congregations were represented.
After and enjoyable supper together, we returned for a period of singing. Following the singing, we entered into a question/answer session. Each question was submitted in writing giving us a few minutes to collect our thoughts before speaking. I took the first question (an easy one) giving the rest of the team time to begin formulating their answers. Questions were submitted on a wide range of topics. Among the questions were ones involving the nature of repentance, the nature of the kingdom heaven and earth, should every one teach, should we drink blood and what was the last work that Jesus did before the crucifixion.
During the q/a session, Connie and Ernestine conducted a private study with Diana the translator from Balti. She is an extremely sweet and intelligent young lady. She is interested in spiritual matters and searching for truth. Please pray for Diana’s search for truth.
A total of 43 people attended the conference.
We are now grabbing a few hours of rest before beginning a very long and difficult day tomorrow. God be praised for the day He placed into our hands.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Wednesday Evening
Final preparations are being made for the conference that begins tommorow afternoon. We have all been frantically scurrying around packing bags and getting our goodies ready to go. I do not know if we will have internet access at the Institute or not so I thought I would add another quick note tonight. Do not be surprised if you do not hear from till Saturday or Sunday.
Tonight we met with the church in Chisinau for another study from Rev. 2. Tonight it was my priviledge to lead a study in a study of Thyatira. It was the largest crowd we have had so far with two ggod prospects. One young girl, Tatiana, was back again tonight. Turns out she knows Ira and had not seen her in years. Also, we had an English speaking visitor, Elizabeth, who had attended some last year. In addition, both Anna and Serghei fathers were present. The discussion was very lively. I am amazed at how the saints have grown in Bible knowledge. That is encouraging.
Hope to log on and tell you more tomorrow.
Tonight we met with the church in Chisinau for another study from Rev. 2. Tonight it was my priviledge to lead a study in a study of Thyatira. It was the largest crowd we have had so far with two ggod prospects. One young girl, Tatiana, was back again tonight. Turns out she knows Ira and had not seen her in years. Also, we had an English speaking visitor, Elizabeth, who had attended some last year. In addition, both Anna and Serghei fathers were present. The discussion was very lively. I am amazed at how the saints have grown in Bible knowledge. That is encouraging.
Hope to log on and tell you more tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
It is cool and rainy again today. It has been dedicated to conference preparation. Notes are being finished, bags are being packed, and “heads” are being prepared. The cold bug has hit our group. My nose has been running for a few days and now it seems to have struck Daniel as well. Today’s mission for Dan and I is to regain our strength and clear our sinuses.
Yesterday was a cool, rainy day in Chisinau and was somewhat reflected in our work. Preparations needed to be made for the conference which could not be made due to the director being too busy to receive us. Connie and Ernestine worked themselves to a frazzle organizing the teaching materials at the church flat. There are many resources there, but they are had to use because they are hard to find. For hours the ladies, the stars of this trip, sorted flannel graph material with amazing patience.
Last night we resumed our lessons on the seven churches of Asia with Sid and Steve tag-teaming for the lesson. Sid presented a brief background of the city of Pergamum that proved helpful. Steve lead the class in a rather lengthy discussion of the church at Pergamum. We had a lively class with great discussion. The saints in Chisinau presented some great questions and enjoyed the interaction and exchange of ideas. Together we pooled our backgrounds and knowledge to collectively seek answers.
We had two visitors last night. Irenea is a blind lady who seeks truth as much as light. She listens quietly and respectfully. The other visitor was Tatiana. She came as the result of a visitor (from Sunday) inviting her. She was not invited by a member but a visitor. Remarkable.
This morning we (the six of us) had a good oblong-table discussion on the conference and the work in Chisinau. Attempts were made to clarify our vision for the conference and how to best use our last week in Chisinau.
Tonight, Daniel and I will tag-team on a discussion of Thyatira.
I look forward to sharing with you exciting stories of God’s work during the conference. Have a great study tonight. We will be with you in heart and spirit.
Yesterday was a cool, rainy day in Chisinau and was somewhat reflected in our work. Preparations needed to be made for the conference which could not be made due to the director being too busy to receive us. Connie and Ernestine worked themselves to a frazzle organizing the teaching materials at the church flat. There are many resources there, but they are had to use because they are hard to find. For hours the ladies, the stars of this trip, sorted flannel graph material with amazing patience.
Last night we resumed our lessons on the seven churches of Asia with Sid and Steve tag-teaming for the lesson. Sid presented a brief background of the city of Pergamum that proved helpful. Steve lead the class in a rather lengthy discussion of the church at Pergamum. We had a lively class with great discussion. The saints in Chisinau presented some great questions and enjoyed the interaction and exchange of ideas. Together we pooled our backgrounds and knowledge to collectively seek answers.
We had two visitors last night. Irenea is a blind lady who seeks truth as much as light. She listens quietly and respectfully. The other visitor was Tatiana. She came as the result of a visitor (from Sunday) inviting her. She was not invited by a member but a visitor. Remarkable.
This morning we (the six of us) had a good oblong-table discussion on the conference and the work in Chisinau. Attempts were made to clarify our vision for the conference and how to best use our last week in Chisinau.
Tonight, Daniel and I will tag-team on a discussion of Thyatira.
I look forward to sharing with you exciting stories of God’s work during the conference. Have a great study tonight. We will be with you in heart and spirit.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
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Steve and Daniel in Benderi/Tiraspol
I asked Steve to write a brief summary of their work in Tiraspol/Benderi. Here is what he wrote. To God be the praise.
Steve and Daniel left Chisinau on Thursday, April 10th to work for 3 and ½ days with the saints in these two churches. These two churches used to be together under the sponsoring oversight of an American institutional congregation and one strong willed individual. However, through the work of Serghei Corcimaru and several visiting American brothers a few individuals from the city of Tiraspol made a decision not to continue in this sponsoring arrangement. As a result of their decision they now meet in the flat of Vera and Vicili in Tiraspol. Vera and Vicily are so kind that they gave up their two room flat for us so Steve and Daniel would have a place to stay. We found this small group of 5 adults and two children to be zealous for the Lord and striving to gain more knowledge of the word of God. Even though they are small they are mighty in the faith and we were very uplifted by them. Vicily the preacher was so kind to give up his time of teaching the saints there so that we could teach. He is a very good student of the Bible and has a wonderful and kind heart. We were very edified by them and we pray that we edified them. They were very pleased with our lessons pertaining to growing in the faith while being aware that there are hindrances to our faith that Satan will lay before us. We were able to have studies with them every day and the time we spent in Tiraspol was very profitable for both the congregation there and Steve and Daniel.
Steve and Daniel also worked with the group in Bendari. This group has had its share of challenges. First of all, they were established through the efforts of some in the institutional church. They were taught that they would be under the oversight and control of an American congregation and their representative. This congregation then solicited funds from other American congregations like them to raise the funds to build a very beautiful facility that is one of the nicest facilities in that area. They have had to endure a strong willed local preacher who dictated to them what the American overseer wanted and controlled them with American funds sent to them and brought over twice a year by the American representative. Through the enduring efforts of Serghei C. and visiting American brethren of the non-institutional belief the saints here have studied the arrangement they have been serving in. A major breakthrough occurred about a year ago when there was a local preacher change. The new preacher is an older Russian man by the name of Alexander. He has many personal issues with the government in Russia and lives in danger because of these issues. He is a victim of the Chernobyl accident years ago. Through all of this he has most sincere heart to do what God wants him to do. The congregation took a step to mark three ladies who were being very divisive and trying to hinder this group from studying the truth about church organization found in the New Testament.
Steve and Daniel were able to meet with this group in the building provided them by the American congregation sponsoring them. They enjoyed long discussions with them about Scriptural oversight and the autonomy of the local church. After a 3 and ½ hour question and answer period on Saturday this group of great hearts decided to break down the barrier of unscriptural organization and do what they should do to separate themselves from the American church and representative oversight. Serghei Corcimaru whom they all have a great respect for had been prohibited by the American representative to speak and teach in this building. The congregation made a decision on that Saturday that this was the last strong hold, the last “order” and “command” that they needed to “disobey” from the American representative and they would be out of his oversight. Through discussions with them it was decided that Steve and Daniel would arrange for Serghei to speak at their worship service the next day. This was done and the start of a new era for the church in Bendari has begun.
This great decision does not come without tremendous sacrifice and cost. The local preacher has a flat or an apartment in the upstairs of this building that is part of his compensation. He is in danger of not only losing his living quarters but he also is in danger of losing his financial support. More than likely this will occur in just a short period of time. Then the congregation and the preacher will both have to find new quarters. This will not be easy. This congregation is one that has the zeal and wants to have the knowledge so they will never stray from the Lord again. We pray that they are able to contain their zeal and search and study God’s word to gain the knowledge.
The 3 and ½ days in Tiraspol and Bendari area were great days that the Lord blessed Steve and Daniel with and we pray that the congregations there benefitted from their visit as much as they did in visiting.
Steve and Daniel left Chisinau on Thursday, April 10th to work for 3 and ½ days with the saints in these two churches. These two churches used to be together under the sponsoring oversight of an American institutional congregation and one strong willed individual. However, through the work of Serghei Corcimaru and several visiting American brothers a few individuals from the city of Tiraspol made a decision not to continue in this sponsoring arrangement. As a result of their decision they now meet in the flat of Vera and Vicili in Tiraspol. Vera and Vicily are so kind that they gave up their two room flat for us so Steve and Daniel would have a place to stay. We found this small group of 5 adults and two children to be zealous for the Lord and striving to gain more knowledge of the word of God. Even though they are small they are mighty in the faith and we were very uplifted by them. Vicily the preacher was so kind to give up his time of teaching the saints there so that we could teach. He is a very good student of the Bible and has a wonderful and kind heart. We were very edified by them and we pray that we edified them. They were very pleased with our lessons pertaining to growing in the faith while being aware that there are hindrances to our faith that Satan will lay before us. We were able to have studies with them every day and the time we spent in Tiraspol was very profitable for both the congregation there and Steve and Daniel.
Steve and Daniel also worked with the group in Bendari. This group has had its share of challenges. First of all, they were established through the efforts of some in the institutional church. They were taught that they would be under the oversight and control of an American congregation and their representative. This congregation then solicited funds from other American congregations like them to raise the funds to build a very beautiful facility that is one of the nicest facilities in that area. They have had to endure a strong willed local preacher who dictated to them what the American overseer wanted and controlled them with American funds sent to them and brought over twice a year by the American representative. Through the enduring efforts of Serghei C. and visiting American brethren of the non-institutional belief the saints here have studied the arrangement they have been serving in. A major breakthrough occurred about a year ago when there was a local preacher change. The new preacher is an older Russian man by the name of Alexander. He has many personal issues with the government in Russia and lives in danger because of these issues. He is a victim of the Chernobyl accident years ago. Through all of this he has most sincere heart to do what God wants him to do. The congregation took a step to mark three ladies who were being very divisive and trying to hinder this group from studying the truth about church organization found in the New Testament.
Steve and Daniel were able to meet with this group in the building provided them by the American congregation sponsoring them. They enjoyed long discussions with them about Scriptural oversight and the autonomy of the local church. After a 3 and ½ hour question and answer period on Saturday this group of great hearts decided to break down the barrier of unscriptural organization and do what they should do to separate themselves from the American church and representative oversight. Serghei Corcimaru whom they all have a great respect for had been prohibited by the American representative to speak and teach in this building. The congregation made a decision on that Saturday that this was the last strong hold, the last “order” and “command” that they needed to “disobey” from the American representative and they would be out of his oversight. Through discussions with them it was decided that Steve and Daniel would arrange for Serghei to speak at their worship service the next day. This was done and the start of a new era for the church in Bendari has begun.
This great decision does not come without tremendous sacrifice and cost. The local preacher has a flat or an apartment in the upstairs of this building that is part of his compensation. He is in danger of not only losing his living quarters but he also is in danger of losing his financial support. More than likely this will occur in just a short period of time. Then the congregation and the preacher will both have to find new quarters. This will not be easy. This congregation is one that has the zeal and wants to have the knowledge so they will never stray from the Lord again. We pray that they are able to contain their zeal and search and study God’s word to gain the knowledge.
The 3 and ½ days in Tiraspol and Bendari area were great days that the Lord blessed Steve and Daniel with and we pray that the congregations there benefitted from their visit as much as they did in visiting.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Connie & Ernestine in Balti
Here is the entry from Connie & Ernestine. Read & enjoy.
We arrived in Balti at noon on Thursday and stayed there until after the Sunday services returning with Sid and John to Chisinau. The ladies already assembled for our first lesson and seemed eager for us to be there. Though we had planned for 3 days of study when we suggested a class before the men arrived on Sunday, they were quite willing. The average attendance each day was 7 not counting the translator or ourselves. Diane, the translator, was extremely efficient and is willing to have a one on one study while we are at the conference. Diane will also help translate at the conference. The ladies were very spirited in their singing. There was no problem singing. In fact, we taught one another new songs. In the Bible classes we were glad to hear their comments and discussion. The church has met for 8 years in Vera’s house.
We found the ladies to be very open in their show of love for us. Some shared family pictures with us.
We stayed with Eugenia who was very gracious and wanted so much to please. When walking in the city or riding on a bus, she was very protective. Although we did not speak the same language, it was not a hardship on any of us. Not only did we enjoy our stay with her, we think she enjoyed it also.
We found Balti to be a very impoverished city where its people have difficulty in providing their needs foregoing any extras.
Our stay in Balti was more rewarding than either of us expected. We learned quickly to love these dear sisters in Christ.
Connie and Ernestine
We arrived in Balti at noon on Thursday and stayed there until after the Sunday services returning with Sid and John to Chisinau. The ladies already assembled for our first lesson and seemed eager for us to be there. Though we had planned for 3 days of study when we suggested a class before the men arrived on Sunday, they were quite willing. The average attendance each day was 7 not counting the translator or ourselves. Diane, the translator, was extremely efficient and is willing to have a one on one study while we are at the conference. Diane will also help translate at the conference. The ladies were very spirited in their singing. There was no problem singing. In fact, we taught one another new songs. In the Bible classes we were glad to hear their comments and discussion. The church has met for 8 years in Vera’s house.
We found the ladies to be very open in their show of love for us. Some shared family pictures with us.
We stayed with Eugenia who was very gracious and wanted so much to please. When walking in the city or riding on a bus, she was very protective. Although we did not speak the same language, it was not a hardship on any of us. Not only did we enjoy our stay with her, we think she enjoyed it also.
We found Balti to be a very impoverished city where its people have difficulty in providing their needs foregoing any extras.
Our stay in Balti was more rewarding than either of us expected. We learned quickly to love these dear sisters in Christ.
Connie and Ernestine
Monday, April 14, 2008
Good afternoon. I'm sorry that I did not submit a posting for yesterday, but by the time I had time I was too tired to type. For all three teams, yesterday was a blessed day.
Sid and I rode up to Balti with Serghei Vinicurvo for worship with the church there. The road to Balti is filled with pot holes, ruts and obstables. It is not that far, but as slowly as one has to drive it is quite a distance. Upon arrival in Balti we were warmly greeted by the sisters. These are a special and dear group of sisters. Sid did the talk for the Lord's Supper (about a 20 minute talk) and I preached on the reasons for Paul's joy as expressed in Philippians. Because time was issue, we did not get to stay and socialize with the sisters. Shortly after the close of worship,we headed back to Chisunau and another 2 1/2 hour drive.
Connie and Ernestine has a class before we arrived. Their impact upon these ladies cannot be captured in words. I have asked them to write a summary of their time in Balti and that will be included in a future post.
Serghei Corchmaru drove down to Benderi and met with the saints there. He joined Steve and David who spoke in Tiraspol at 8:30 and then Benderi about 11:00. The faith and commitment to truth among these brethren is amazing. Alexander, the local preacher in Benderi, was their translator and became a much beloved brother. The brethren in Benderi have made a clean and final break from their institutional sponsors. Praise God for the power of His Word and the faith of these brethren.
Next week the whole team will head to Benderi to conduct and entire day of Bible lessons. Connie and Ernestine will tag-team teaching the women. The other four of us will tag-team the men.
We all met back together in Chisinau later Sunday afternoon. Steve had forgotten to take his key, so he and Daniel stood outside for over an hour while Sid and I came with the key. It was great to be back together and share stories. We tripped over each other and we excitedly shared our memories and victories. But, soon it was time to head to worship in Chisinau.
After worship, we walked to Green Hills for a supurb meal and a time to unwind and relax. Steak, tocana, mamalygia was all around the table.
This morning all six of us went to the Teacher's college. We were expecting a general discussion of American culture. The teacher wrote the word "Beelzebub" on the board and wanted information on it as they had run across it in Milton's works. That opened the door and the next 80 minutes we had one of the best Bible studies any of us had ever had. A hand full of girl students questioned us about the existence of God, good -vs-evil, why we should be concerned about God, how can we express love for God, etc. Sid did a great job filling in the "scholarly" material. The students were well-behaved, mannerly and obviously interested in our discussion. We have been invited back, but I am not sure of the day. I went relunctantly, but repented as soon as we excited the school. It the best Bible study I have ever had at a university in Moldova.
Later, I haope to fill you in on the work in Balti and Benderi/Tiraspol. Stay tuned. Thanks for reading.
Sid and I rode up to Balti with Serghei Vinicurvo for worship with the church there. The road to Balti is filled with pot holes, ruts and obstables. It is not that far, but as slowly as one has to drive it is quite a distance. Upon arrival in Balti we were warmly greeted by the sisters. These are a special and dear group of sisters. Sid did the talk for the Lord's Supper (about a 20 minute talk) and I preached on the reasons for Paul's joy as expressed in Philippians. Because time was issue, we did not get to stay and socialize with the sisters. Shortly after the close of worship,we headed back to Chisunau and another 2 1/2 hour drive.
Connie and Ernestine has a class before we arrived. Their impact upon these ladies cannot be captured in words. I have asked them to write a summary of their time in Balti and that will be included in a future post.
Serghei Corchmaru drove down to Benderi and met with the saints there. He joined Steve and David who spoke in Tiraspol at 8:30 and then Benderi about 11:00. The faith and commitment to truth among these brethren is amazing. Alexander, the local preacher in Benderi, was their translator and became a much beloved brother. The brethren in Benderi have made a clean and final break from their institutional sponsors. Praise God for the power of His Word and the faith of these brethren.
Next week the whole team will head to Benderi to conduct and entire day of Bible lessons. Connie and Ernestine will tag-team teaching the women. The other four of us will tag-team the men.
We all met back together in Chisinau later Sunday afternoon. Steve had forgotten to take his key, so he and Daniel stood outside for over an hour while Sid and I came with the key. It was great to be back together and share stories. We tripped over each other and we excitedly shared our memories and victories. But, soon it was time to head to worship in Chisinau.
After worship, we walked to Green Hills for a supurb meal and a time to unwind and relax. Steak, tocana, mamalygia was all around the table.
This morning all six of us went to the Teacher's college. We were expecting a general discussion of American culture. The teacher wrote the word "Beelzebub" on the board and wanted information on it as they had run across it in Milton's works. That opened the door and the next 80 minutes we had one of the best Bible studies any of us had ever had. A hand full of girl students questioned us about the existence of God, good -vs-evil, why we should be concerned about God, how can we express love for God, etc. Sid did a great job filling in the "scholarly" material. The students were well-behaved, mannerly and obviously interested in our discussion. We have been invited back, but I am not sure of the day. I went relunctantly, but repented as soon as we excited the school. It the best Bible study I have ever had at a university in Moldova.
Later, I haope to fill you in on the work in Balti and Benderi/Tiraspol. Stay tuned. Thanks for reading.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Greetings. The saints in Moldova salute you.
My report for Saturday, April 12 will be brief, not because nothing happened, but because I want Steve to summarize the work in Benderi.
Sid and I had a lazy morning filled with sleeping and laundry. Actually, it is 9:30 pm and the dryer is still running. After a leisurely lunch and a short nap, we had a study with Serghei and Anna.
I have not heard for the gals today, but I am sure that I will have a great deal to write tomorrow night summarizing the work and experiences.
Steve and Dan have had a historic day in Benderi. The brethren have completely broken all ties with their sponsers and have invited Serghie C. to preach for them tomorow. That is huge as the sponsering church refused Serghei entrance into the building.
More tomorrow. God bless.
My report for Saturday, April 12 will be brief, not because nothing happened, but because I want Steve to summarize the work in Benderi.
Sid and I had a lazy morning filled with sleeping and laundry. Actually, it is 9:30 pm and the dryer is still running. After a leisurely lunch and a short nap, we had a study with Serghei and Anna.
I have not heard for the gals today, but I am sure that I will have a great deal to write tomorrow night summarizing the work and experiences.
Steve and Dan have had a historic day in Benderi. The brethren have completely broken all ties with their sponsers and have invited Serghie C. to preach for them tomorow. That is huge as the sponsering church refused Serghei entrance into the building.
More tomorrow. God bless.
Friday, April 11, 2008
The Lord has blessed us with a good day! (11:00pm, Friday, April 11, 2008)
The sun did come out; the rain never fell, but the blessings feel liberally. I will try to relate what Steve & the girls have reported.
BALTI- The ladies are doing GREAT WORK & have broken through barriers no one else have been able to break down. They have quickly broken through and have a beautiful relationship with the sisters at Balti. Connie & Ernestine both presented two lessons a piece today. Four more lessons are planned for tomorrow. In addition, they have an appointment for a private study with their translator. Their translator, a young lady, has been exposed to much Bible teaching having translated for other teams in the past. But, Connie & Ernestine are the first ones to get her interested in a private study. Please pray for this young lady and this class.
Tiraspol/Benderi - I had a long phone conversation with Steve this evening and he was excited about what they accomplished today. They presented two lessons a piece in Benderi & Tiraspol. While in Benderi they received an invitation for all six of us to return the week after the conference to conduct separate classes for men & women. The brethren in Tiraspol have expressed interest in attending also. Steve was impressed with the attitude and faith of Alexander, the formerly institutional preacher in Benderi. The American "sponsor" is to return in September. Alexander expects that at that point they will loose the use of their meeting house. In addition he will loose his residence and all of his support (Ithink that is close to $300 @ month not counting residence). He has great faith in God & his brethren. He knows his needs will be met even though he has no idea how God will do this work.
Chisinau - Sid and I had a busy day in Chisinau. We spoke to a class of college students and invited all of them to attend our Bible studies. The professor has all of them write down the address. I do not know if any one will come, but inviting is all we can do since we can't drag them there. Later in the day, we accompanied Ira to the orphanage where she taught a Bible class. She did a great job. This is one zealous and hard working young lady. Tomorrow she is traveling to a village to teach Bible class. We would like to accompany her, but the distance is great enough that she won't return to Chisinau until Sunday afternoon (Don't worry. The church doesn't assemble for worship until 5:00). Tonight Sid and I tag teamed on a lesson on the Lord's letter to the church in Ephesus in Rev. 2. I presented the historical background and Sid did the exposition of the text. He did a great job and had wonderful class participation.
After class, Serghei V. (Aka Serghei 2 or Serghei the driver), Ira and their girls joined us for pizza at Andy's Pizza. This was one of the first these young girls (ages 5 & 3) had evern been to a resturant. Melissa has her first exposure to pizza. Needless to say, she is not fond of pizza.
The best part of supper was our conversation with Serghei & Ira. I cannot say enough about this good couple and how valuable they are for the church in Chisinau. Serghei may never be a preacher or teacher, but he would make a great elder some day. He has good insight into what is holding them back and keeping the church from growing. He & Ira are commited to doing all they can do to help the church overcome laziness and get serious about growing. They live nearly one hour from where the church meets, yet they clean the building, check on the sick, & Ira teaches the children's class. They are disappointed and concerned that the brethren do not enjoy a close relationship outside of worship. They said that what we were doing (eating and laughing with them) was what the Christians needed to do - build a relationship.
I'll keep you reading for hours if I report all that is in my heart, but I will close for now. Please, there are urgent spiritual needs that must be met within all four churches - won't you partner with us by joining us in prayer?
BALTI- The ladies are doing GREAT WORK & have broken through barriers no one else have been able to break down. They have quickly broken through and have a beautiful relationship with the sisters at Balti. Connie & Ernestine both presented two lessons a piece today. Four more lessons are planned for tomorrow. In addition, they have an appointment for a private study with their translator. Their translator, a young lady, has been exposed to much Bible teaching having translated for other teams in the past. But, Connie & Ernestine are the first ones to get her interested in a private study. Please pray for this young lady and this class.
Tiraspol/Benderi - I had a long phone conversation with Steve this evening and he was excited about what they accomplished today. They presented two lessons a piece in Benderi & Tiraspol. While in Benderi they received an invitation for all six of us to return the week after the conference to conduct separate classes for men & women. The brethren in Tiraspol have expressed interest in attending also. Steve was impressed with the attitude and faith of Alexander, the formerly institutional preacher in Benderi. The American "sponsor" is to return in September. Alexander expects that at that point they will loose the use of their meeting house. In addition he will loose his residence and all of his support (Ithink that is close to $300 @ month not counting residence). He has great faith in God & his brethren. He knows his needs will be met even though he has no idea how God will do this work.
Chisinau - Sid and I had a busy day in Chisinau. We spoke to a class of college students and invited all of them to attend our Bible studies. The professor has all of them write down the address. I do not know if any one will come, but inviting is all we can do since we can't drag them there. Later in the day, we accompanied Ira to the orphanage where she taught a Bible class. She did a great job. This is one zealous and hard working young lady. Tomorrow she is traveling to a village to teach Bible class. We would like to accompany her, but the distance is great enough that she won't return to Chisinau until Sunday afternoon (Don't worry. The church doesn't assemble for worship until 5:00). Tonight Sid and I tag teamed on a lesson on the Lord's letter to the church in Ephesus in Rev. 2. I presented the historical background and Sid did the exposition of the text. He did a great job and had wonderful class participation.
After class, Serghei V. (Aka Serghei 2 or Serghei the driver), Ira and their girls joined us for pizza at Andy's Pizza. This was one of the first these young girls (ages 5 & 3) had evern been to a resturant. Melissa has her first exposure to pizza. Needless to say, she is not fond of pizza.
The best part of supper was our conversation with Serghei & Ira. I cannot say enough about this good couple and how valuable they are for the church in Chisinau. Serghei may never be a preacher or teacher, but he would make a great elder some day. He has good insight into what is holding them back and keeping the church from growing. He & Ira are commited to doing all they can do to help the church overcome laziness and get serious about growing. They live nearly one hour from where the church meets, yet they clean the building, check on the sick, & Ira teaches the children's class. They are disappointed and concerned that the brethren do not enjoy a close relationship outside of worship. They said that what we were doing (eating and laughing with them) was what the Christians needed to do - build a relationship.
I'll keep you reading for hours if I report all that is in my heart, but I will close for now. Please, there are urgent spiritual needs that must be met within all four churches - won't you partner with us by joining us in prayer?
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Friday, April 11, 2008
The sun rises again -- well almost. It is rather cloudy today. Recall the hot shower awaiting me yesterday? Well, the hot water had been tunred off by the city & it was a "Granny Grace Bath" in the sink. We hope the flat's water heater is turned on today.
I heard from Steve last night and things went well in Benderi/Tiraspol. He was especially encouraged by Bro. Alexander's attitude and heart. He is the preacher in Benderi and has made the commitment to sever his ties with the sponsoring church in America regardless of the cost. He is prepared to loose his support and find a new place in which to worship. Steve seemed very impressed by Alexander.
I did not hear from the ladies yesterday so I do not how things went with them. Their cell phone must have been either turned off or in the bottom of a purse.
Sid and I had what I pray was a productive study with Nic yesterday. He is a young Christian struggling with alcoholism. We talked very straight with him and he seemed genuinely contrite. I pray so.
Sid and I had a class with the church in Chisinau last night. Sid gave a very l-o-n-g lesson on how to study the Bible especially the epistles. He did a great job. The brethren seemed to appreciate it and listened closely. Today we are following up with the beginning of a study of Revelation 2 & 3. The brethren were given assignments last night. I pray they take them seriously.
Today, Sid and I are going to Moldova State University to speak at 10:30; the orphanage at 2:00; & a study with the church at 6:00. It should be a full day, but a productive day.
Please keep our work as well as all six of us in our prayers.
I heard from Steve last night and things went well in Benderi/Tiraspol. He was especially encouraged by Bro. Alexander's attitude and heart. He is the preacher in Benderi and has made the commitment to sever his ties with the sponsoring church in America regardless of the cost. He is prepared to loose his support and find a new place in which to worship. Steve seemed very impressed by Alexander.
I did not hear from the ladies yesterday so I do not how things went with them. Their cell phone must have been either turned off or in the bottom of a purse.
Sid and I had what I pray was a productive study with Nic yesterday. He is a young Christian struggling with alcoholism. We talked very straight with him and he seemed genuinely contrite. I pray so.
Sid and I had a class with the church in Chisinau last night. Sid gave a very l-o-n-g lesson on how to study the Bible especially the epistles. He did a great job. The brethren seemed to appreciate it and listened closely. Today we are following up with the beginning of a study of Revelation 2 & 3. The brethren were given assignments last night. I pray they take them seriously.
Today, Sid and I are going to Moldova State University to speak at 10:30; the orphanage at 2:00; & a study with the church at 6:00. It should be a full day, but a productive day.
Please keep our work as well as all six of us in our prayers.
It's Finally Quiet
Good morning! It is late Thursday morning and the flat has grown silent. The ladies (Connie & Erestine) have left for Balti being driven by Serghei Vinocurvo. Steve & Daniel have left for Benderi & Tiraspol being escorted by Serghei Corchimaru. Please keep them, their safety, and their work in your prayers.
The plans that Sid & I have in Chisinau are a bit fluid. We are trying to arrange a personal study with Nic; if that doesn't work out we will study with Serghei & Anna before giong to a 6:00 pm study with the church. Sid is planning on beginning a study of how to study the Bible for yourself which will lead to a study of the seven churches of Asia.
Last night, Connie & Ernestine were pressed into service teaching a children's class with no more than 5 minutes notice. They did a great job. On some levels, those gals are showing us fellers up!
Smells like shower time for me. I will write more later today. If Ihear fromt he ladies 0r the other fellers I will update you on their work.
Have a great and blessed day!
The plans that Sid & I have in Chisinau are a bit fluid. We are trying to arrange a personal study with Nic; if that doesn't work out we will study with Serghei & Anna before giong to a 6:00 pm study with the church. Sid is planning on beginning a study of how to study the Bible for yourself which will lead to a study of the seven churches of Asia.
Last night, Connie & Ernestine were pressed into service teaching a children's class with no more than 5 minutes notice. They did a great job. On some levels, those gals are showing us fellers up!
Smells like shower time for me. I will write more later today. If Ihear fromt he ladies 0r the other fellers I will update you on their work.
Have a great and blessed day!
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Wednesday, April 9th
The sun has set on our first full day of work in Chisinau. The Lord has been good to us and blessed us with good health, beautiful weather, and incredible hospitality.
We woke up early, went back to bed and finally began to stir around 8:30. Connie and Ernestine prepared a wonderful breakfast of ham, eggs and toast that served as lunch as well. It is a genuine blessing to have them with us. Not only do they add class to our group, but their good cooks!
After cleaning up (long hot showers) we took a walk through the city center. For those familiar with Chisinau, we walked from the Central Cathedral, through the artist park and on to the Unic department store. I am amazed by the proliferation of Western goods in Chisinau.
Serghei and Anna invited all six of us for supper this evening. Their hospitality was humbling. They do not have room for company in their tiny flat, yet with great joy they opened their flat. Anna had a wonderful supper prepared with way too much food. I would not be surprised if they spent nearly the equivalent of half a month’s food budget or more on the meal. Anna served compote (a type of fruit juice diluted by water) that her mother had prepared. The peach compote was exceptionally tasty. Their daughter, Vicky, was so adorable and sweet. She clearly enjoyed having Americans in her home. She knew more English than all of us together knew Russian.
We had our first meeting with the church in Chisinau tonight. It was the fulfillment of a long awaited dream to embrace and be embraced by the sisters and brothers. Tonight was the sixth anniversary of Lubia’s baptism. I had the privilege of baptizing her and being present for her “new-birth day” was a genuine thrill.
Tonight I presented a lesson on the importance of counting our blessings as an antidote to our troubles. It was well received by the brethren. Thinking they were only listening to and enjoying my lesson, Connie and Ernestine were pressed into service to teach a children’s class. It gave them a good welcome to Moldova.
Tomorrow we split up with Connie and Ernestine going to Balti and Daniel and Steve going to Tiraspol.
Sid and I will stay in Chisinau. We have a class with Serghei and Anna followed by a meeting with the church. As well Serghei is arranging a meeting with a young man who is a Christian, but struggling mightily with alcoholism. Please pray that we will have the wisdom to choose the right words and compassion to help him with his troubles.
Thank you for following our trip and for your prayers.
We woke up early, went back to bed and finally began to stir around 8:30. Connie and Ernestine prepared a wonderful breakfast of ham, eggs and toast that served as lunch as well. It is a genuine blessing to have them with us. Not only do they add class to our group, but their good cooks!
After cleaning up (long hot showers) we took a walk through the city center. For those familiar with Chisinau, we walked from the Central Cathedral, through the artist park and on to the Unic department store. I am amazed by the proliferation of Western goods in Chisinau.
Serghei and Anna invited all six of us for supper this evening. Their hospitality was humbling. They do not have room for company in their tiny flat, yet with great joy they opened their flat. Anna had a wonderful supper prepared with way too much food. I would not be surprised if they spent nearly the equivalent of half a month’s food budget or more on the meal. Anna served compote (a type of fruit juice diluted by water) that her mother had prepared. The peach compote was exceptionally tasty. Their daughter, Vicky, was so adorable and sweet. She clearly enjoyed having Americans in her home. She knew more English than all of us together knew Russian.
We had our first meeting with the church in Chisinau tonight. It was the fulfillment of a long awaited dream to embrace and be embraced by the sisters and brothers. Tonight was the sixth anniversary of Lubia’s baptism. I had the privilege of baptizing her and being present for her “new-birth day” was a genuine thrill.
Tonight I presented a lesson on the importance of counting our blessings as an antidote to our troubles. It was well received by the brethren. Thinking they were only listening to and enjoying my lesson, Connie and Ernestine were pressed into service to teach a children’s class. It gave them a good welcome to Moldova.
Tomorrow we split up with Connie and Ernestine going to Balti and Daniel and Steve going to Tiraspol.
Sid and I will stay in Chisinau. We have a class with Serghei and Anna followed by a meeting with the church. As well Serghei is arranging a meeting with a young man who is a Christian, but struggling mightily with alcoholism. Please pray that we will have the wisdom to choose the right words and compassion to help him with his troubles.
Thank you for following our trip and for your prayers.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
We have arrived!
It is now 5:45 am and I am awake. As shocking as that may be, I really am awake.
We arrived in Chisinau on schedule yesterday at about 5:30pm Chisinau time. We had a three + hour delay in New York while Delta atempted to fix the fuel system of the plane. After several hours we were shuttled to another plane and finally took off. The flight over was uneventful which is what we wanted.
We were met at the airport by Serghei Corchmaru and Serghie Vinocurvo along with the gentleman from whom we are renting a flat. It was a pleasant and joyous arrival. After thinking I would never see Moldova again I am grateful to the Lord that He has made this trip possible.
After we settled into our flat (which by the way is VERY nice) we gave Connie, Sid, Ernestine & Daniel their first taste of grocery shopping Moldovan style. They all seemed convinced that it was a bit different. Our cart was by far the thoroughly stuffed cart in the store. The grocery is located just a short walk from our flat. I know you will be amazed (Diane may faint) but I actually enjoyed the walk.
We made our first contacts last night. We met an American , teaching English at an elementary school here and he along with his Moldovan wife expressed interest in coming to study. Also while going to McDonalds we met two Americans working with the Peace Corps. One of them a delightful young lady, invited Sid and & to visit in her village and teach Bible classes. We are making further contact via email and pray that these contacts materialize and lead us to good and honest hearts.
Supper last night was McDonalds. We wanted to try Green Hills, my favorite Moldovan resturant, but as late as it was I was afraid it would be too crowded and smoky. We may try it later for lunch today.
Steve has gone back to bed; Sid and I have cleaned up and had our first hot shower; Connie is working at the kitched table while Daniel and Ernestine, the luckiest of the bunch, are still sleeping.
Our work begins in earnest later today. We have been invited to Serghei and Anna's at 4:00 pm and then have a study with the church in Chisinau tonight. I am scheduled to speak on Counting our blessings as an antidote to whinning. I will post later and let you know how our first study goes.
I will sign off for now. Thank you for your prayers and interest.
We arrived in Chisinau on schedule yesterday at about 5:30pm Chisinau time. We had a three + hour delay in New York while Delta atempted to fix the fuel system of the plane. After several hours we were shuttled to another plane and finally took off. The flight over was uneventful which is what we wanted.
We were met at the airport by Serghei Corchmaru and Serghie Vinocurvo along with the gentleman from whom we are renting a flat. It was a pleasant and joyous arrival. After thinking I would never see Moldova again I am grateful to the Lord that He has made this trip possible.
After we settled into our flat (which by the way is VERY nice) we gave Connie, Sid, Ernestine & Daniel their first taste of grocery shopping Moldovan style. They all seemed convinced that it was a bit different. Our cart was by far the thoroughly stuffed cart in the store. The grocery is located just a short walk from our flat. I know you will be amazed (Diane may faint) but I actually enjoyed the walk.
We made our first contacts last night. We met an American , teaching English at an elementary school here and he along with his Moldovan wife expressed interest in coming to study. Also while going to McDonalds we met two Americans working with the Peace Corps. One of them a delightful young lady, invited Sid and & to visit in her village and teach Bible classes. We are making further contact via email and pray that these contacts materialize and lead us to good and honest hearts.
Supper last night was McDonalds. We wanted to try Green Hills, my favorite Moldovan resturant, but as late as it was I was afraid it would be too crowded and smoky. We may try it later for lunch today.
Steve has gone back to bed; Sid and I have cleaned up and had our first hot shower; Connie is working at the kitched table while Daniel and Ernestine, the luckiest of the bunch, are still sleeping.
Our work begins in earnest later today. We have been invited to Serghei and Anna's at 4:00 pm and then have a study with the church in Chisinau tonight. I am scheduled to speak on Counting our blessings as an antidote to whinning. I will post later and let you know how our first study goes.
I will sign off for now. Thank you for your prayers and interest.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Here are two news articles that chronicle the "Moldovan misery." I inclue these not to solicit sympathy or hero status for those us making this trip, but to help you understand some of the problems our brethren are facing. Read, but don't enjoy!
Filthy and freezing on the Moldovan campaign trail
By Mark Ames, 23/Feb/2007
I'd only been in Moldova for two days and I was already reaching the end of my rope. Getting a visa was a hellish waste of time, and I'd been crudely followed by two feckless cops since landing in the capital, Chisinau. My distinctly Soviet hotel was a circus of phone-in whores, dweebish Peace Corps missionaries and aging American perverts cashing their Social Security checks on desperate Moldovan ladies before Bush kills the program off for good, leaving them stuck forever in the sexual desert of America.
After a bad night's sleep and an early wake-up call, it took us nearly two hours to drive just 40 kilometers from Chisinau to Getlova. The roads were flooded with mud, pocked with holes and designed to take the most roundabout possible route between two points. Geometry apparently is not one of Moldova's strengths. The fog was thick over the hilly countryside, a brown, terminal landscape of lifeless grapevines and mud....The results were predictable: Moldova is now the poorest nation in Europe, its industry totally destroyed, its population in catastrophic decline, its bureaucracy riddled with corruption. Its only function is to make other poor European countries feel good about themselves. Moldovans are at the bottom of the East European heap. Ukrainians laugh at them in order to feel better about their own wretchedness. Even Albanians are grateful that they aren't Moldovans. Moldova is not only the poorest nation in Europe--it is the most miserable place I have ever visited. The country survives on remittance, corruption, and the sale of human flesh. 1 million of Moldova's roughly 4 million citizens live abroad to earn money. Entire villages are emptied of 16-to-35 year-olds. The women are famous for stocking the West's and Russia's brothels and highway tochkas, as well as the striptease bars and "adult entertainment centers" in Turkey and Cyprus. Moldovan men provide cheap manual labor in Portugal, Spain and Italy, competing with Albanians and North Africans.
New book lists Moldova as world's unhappiest country
By Karen Ryan, 07/Jan/2008
CHISINAU (Tiraspol Times) - If you are looking for happiness, don't make a detour to Moldova. The country, which holds the dubious honor of being the poorest in Europe, is now officially also the unhappiest.
A new book by American author and journalist Eric Weiner categorizes Moldova at the least happy place on the face of the planet. The book, The Geography of Bliss, surveys countries around the globe with happy populations. For comparison, it also includes the most miserable country in the world: Moldova.
" - Moldovans are truly miserable," says the book's author, Eric Weiner. "It's a relatively poor country on the edge of a rich neighborhood, and that's Europe. Once they had the pride of being part of the Soviet empire, and now they're not part of anything."
Mark Ames, another American journalist, agrees." - Moldova is not only the poorest nation in Europe - it is also the most miserable place I
Filthy and freezing on the Moldovan campaign trail
By Mark Ames, 23/Feb/2007
I'd only been in Moldova for two days and I was already reaching the end of my rope. Getting a visa was a hellish waste of time, and I'd been crudely followed by two feckless cops since landing in the capital, Chisinau. My distinctly Soviet hotel was a circus of phone-in whores, dweebish Peace Corps missionaries and aging American perverts cashing their Social Security checks on desperate Moldovan ladies before Bush kills the program off for good, leaving them stuck forever in the sexual desert of America.
After a bad night's sleep and an early wake-up call, it took us nearly two hours to drive just 40 kilometers from Chisinau to Getlova. The roads were flooded with mud, pocked with holes and designed to take the most roundabout possible route between two points. Geometry apparently is not one of Moldova's strengths. The fog was thick over the hilly countryside, a brown, terminal landscape of lifeless grapevines and mud....The results were predictable: Moldova is now the poorest nation in Europe, its industry totally destroyed, its population in catastrophic decline, its bureaucracy riddled with corruption. Its only function is to make other poor European countries feel good about themselves. Moldovans are at the bottom of the East European heap. Ukrainians laugh at them in order to feel better about their own wretchedness. Even Albanians are grateful that they aren't Moldovans. Moldova is not only the poorest nation in Europe--it is the most miserable place I have ever visited. The country survives on remittance, corruption, and the sale of human flesh. 1 million of Moldova's roughly 4 million citizens live abroad to earn money. Entire villages are emptied of 16-to-35 year-olds. The women are famous for stocking the West's and Russia's brothels and highway tochkas, as well as the striptease bars and "adult entertainment centers" in Turkey and Cyprus. Moldovan men provide cheap manual labor in Portugal, Spain and Italy, competing with Albanians and North Africans.
New book lists Moldova as world's unhappiest country
By Karen Ryan, 07/Jan/2008
CHISINAU (Tiraspol Times) - If you are looking for happiness, don't make a detour to Moldova. The country, which holds the dubious honor of being the poorest in Europe, is now officially also the unhappiest.
A new book by American author and journalist Eric Weiner categorizes Moldova at the least happy place on the face of the planet. The book, The Geography of Bliss, surveys countries around the globe with happy populations. For comparison, it also includes the most miserable country in the world: Moldova.
" - Moldovans are truly miserable," says the book's author, Eric Weiner. "It's a relatively poor country on the edge of a rich neighborhood, and that's Europe. Once they had the pride of being part of the Soviet empire, and now they're not part of anything."
Mark Ames, another American journalist, agrees." - Moldova is not only the poorest nation in Europe - it is also the most miserable place I
Trip Quickly Approaching
Our trip to Moldova is only 3 weeks away (atleast as I write this post). The excitement among our group is growing and I trust among the Moldovan brethren as well. As final preparations are made I solicite your prayers. The success of this endeavor is reliant upon God's blessings not our skills or wisdom.
As you make petition to our Father, may I make one personal request? The past year was not a knd one to me health-wise. While I have the approval of all my doctors, I am still in need of your prayers. Please remember my health in your prayers. If you ever saw the inside of a Moldovan hospital you would understand some of my concerns!!
I am grateful for the understanding and support of my wonderful wife. She would rather I stay home and is not relishing the time alone, but she understands how important this work is to me and how much the Moldovan brethren mean to me. May God bless her for her understanding.
As you make petition to our Father, may I make one personal request? The past year was not a knd one to me health-wise. While I have the approval of all my doctors, I am still in need of your prayers. Please remember my health in your prayers. If you ever saw the inside of a Moldovan hospital you would understand some of my concerns!!
I am grateful for the understanding and support of my wonderful wife. She would rather I stay home and is not relishing the time alone, but she understands how important this work is to me and how much the Moldovan brethren mean to me. May God bless her for her understanding.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Gentrys in Moldova
You can follow John Gentry's trip to Moldova at his blog site. The URL is http://blog.HaveBibleWillPreach.com. I laughed till I had tears in my eyes as I read his post detailing his fist trip to Transnestria. Read & enjoy!!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Preparing for April 2008 trip
The "Steve Niemeier" group is quickly completing plans for their trip to Moldova in April 2008. Connie and Ernestine Byers have worked diligently preparing material to study with the ladies in Balti and the ladies at the conference. Steve and Daniel have given diligent thought and prepartion for their lessons for the church in Tiraspol as well as the conference. Even Sid and I have prepared and made plans for aggressive work in Chisinau.
If our plans come together we will split up for 5 days and then come back together to make preparations for the conference. We will have nearly 1 week after the conference to follow up as we see the needs.
As far as I know this is the largest group of workers to ever travel to Moldova together. It will be one of the first times that women have made prepartion to teach in Moldova. We hope to reach out to a village to investigate the possibilities of spreading the Gospel even farther in Moldova. In addition, we hope to set a fire for evengelism within the hearts of the Moldovan brethren.
We have booked a flat in Chisinau via the internet. If it is a nice as the pictures presented, it should be a nice place. It is in the center of the city and just around the corner from McDonalds!
As time for our trip draws closer I hope to share more of our plans and to use this blog to keep folks updated as the trip unfolds.
John Smith for:
Steve & Connie Niemeier, Daniel & Ernestine Byers, Sid Latham
If our plans come together we will split up for 5 days and then come back together to make preparations for the conference. We will have nearly 1 week after the conference to follow up as we see the needs.
As far as I know this is the largest group of workers to ever travel to Moldova together. It will be one of the first times that women have made prepartion to teach in Moldova. We hope to reach out to a village to investigate the possibilities of spreading the Gospel even farther in Moldova. In addition, we hope to set a fire for evengelism within the hearts of the Moldovan brethren.
We have booked a flat in Chisinau via the internet. If it is a nice as the pictures presented, it should be a nice place. It is in the center of the city and just around the corner from McDonalds!
As time for our trip draws closer I hope to share more of our plans and to use this blog to keep folks updated as the trip unfolds.
John Smith for:
Steve & Connie Niemeier, Daniel & Ernestine Byers, Sid Latham
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