Since the beginning of the year much has happened in our lives and in the church. Naty and I have had the opportunity to be directly involved in the work of serval charities in the city that are doing some wonderful work. One is called Light Into Europe. They are a Christian charity that focuses on helping those with severe handicaps; the blind, mute and deaf. We have been excited about helping them. This has also helped open an important door for outreach into the international community here in the city. There are approximately 400 individuals and families from the expat community that have directly been involved with their work. As we have helped, we have had the opportunity to build many bridges for outreach into many of their lives.
On Our Way To A Light Into Europe Event
We continue to work with another organization called the Refuge Center as well. They focus primarily on helping orphaned and abandoned children here in the city. We are excited about the work they are doing as well. We would ask you to pray for both organizations and ask that God will make them fruitful as they minister to each and their tangible needs. Also, pray that God will make them fruitful in light of eternity as well, as they have many opportunities to share the gospel with each.
In February we hosted our annual couples night out, February 14th. This is a night for the couples of the church to get together and celebrate God's faithfulness in their lives. This years event was a big success as well. We were most excited by the fact that several unbelievers attended this event this year as well. Pray that God will continue to keep doors for the gospel open to these who attended.
The Couples Night Out
In March we had our annual Weekend Away as a church in the Romanian Mountains. This once again was a great time of fellowship, encouragement and refreshment for all who attended. This year Jonathan Moore-Crispin who was the assistant pastor at the International Church a year or so ago, returned to give the morning message on Sunday morning while we were there. There were a few guests that did come and participate. We were excited by this because they were exposed to the gospel during our time there. Please pray for these that they might continue to seek Christ. Pray that God will bring them to the place where they trust Christ as well.
Having Fun At The Weekend Away pt. 1
Having Fun At The Weekend Away pt. 2
Jonathan Sharing The Morning Message
About the middle of March the Ladies of the church went away for their annual retreat. Many commented afterward that this was one of the best retreats they had ever had. There were women from many countries and different walks in life that came together simple to exalt Jesus Christ. I believe most said they wished the retreat could have lasted longer. Below are a few snapshots from this encouraging event to the women of the International Church.
The Ladies Growing Together In Prayer
During the Ladies Retreat Naty Lead Them In Worship
As a church we have been preparing for the Easter season for some time now. The middle of March we began a series called ID = Discovering Our Identity In Christ. If you would like to listen to one of our services, please click on the following link to watch and listen. (International Church - March 11, 2018) At the end of the service Naty and the worship band concluded the service by singing about the love of God. Finally, the first of April we celebrated the Resurrection of Jesus Christ at the International Church. This years celebration was a bit different from others in the past. This year immediately after the service we hosted an Easter meal for all who attended. We were thrilled by the success of this event. Not only were there many who came to worship with us, but many of our guests also stayed and ate lunch with us as well. Please pray for those who heard the gospel for the first time.
Sharing With The Congregation Easter Sunday
The Children Enjoyed Celebrating The Resurrection
The Easter Meal pt. 1
The Easter Meal, pt. 2
Finally, we want to thank each of you once again for your partnership in the work of ministry here in Romania and Moldova. We have been blessed tremendously by each of you through the years and we pray that God is rewarding you in the same rich way that you have blessed us and so many others here through the years. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13
