Nzovercomers 2015 by Mission Without Borders International

2015

overcomers

Annual Magazine of Mission Without Borders New Zealand

MISSIONWITHOUTBORDERS Mission Without Borders is an international Christian organisation, founded in 1960, dedicated to serving the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those suffering the effects of poverty or persecution. Overcomers is published by Mission Without Borders (N.Z.) a charitable trust registered under the Charities Act CC37218 Contact Details: Freephone: 0800 469 269 Phone: 09 309 6969 Editor: Andrew Wilks Send all correspondence to The Editor, Overcomers, PO Box 56264, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446 Email: nzadmin@mwbi.org Website: www.mwb.org.nz www.facebook.com/ MissionWithoutBordersNz Contributors/Photographs: Andrew Wilks, Liz Wilks, Liz Clarke, Andrea Treasure, Lynley Hansen, MWB Field staff. Design: Karen Power, Australia Printer: Broderick Printing & Design Ltd Glenfield, Auckland © 2015 Mission Without Borders (N.Z.) Bank Accounts for Online Banking: General donations and sponsorships 06 0185 0122206 12 Bibles and literature 06 0185 0122206 25 Cover Photo: The girls from this Romanian family are experiencing a positive change in their family (page 12)

From the Director’s Desk Dear Reader, Despite living the farthest from Eastern Europe of any of our 11 supporter countries in the West, New Zealanders have never seen distance as a barrier to reaching out to those in need. The generosity in giving of time, talents, gifts of handmade and other items, money and sponsoring of children and families, suggest a warmth of heart and wealth of compassion. This is very much so in the case of those who have been able to visit their sponsored family or child. Several who have accompanied me to Ukraine, Moldova, Romania or Albania, have spoken of the deep effect on their lives of meeting families, children, elderly, mission staff, church pastors and volunteers. Afterwards, all have shared their experiences with family, friends, church or knitting circles. Some have become our “MWB Ambassadors” and speak to groups about their visits. In 2015, I plan to take another group of supporters to Ukraine and Moldova. Ukraine has regularly been in the news since November 2013. Some 6000 people have died through the war including those lost on downed Malaysia Airlines flight MH17. Thousands more have been injured, lost homes and livelihoods, or are refugees. Moldova has its own struggles and has no shortage of families, children and the elderly desperately needing help and hope. Our visit is to tell them that people care, even those on the other side of the globe. We serve a loving God, who values people not by outward appearance or material wealth or position, but by their potential. Prisoners, the homeless, institutionalised children, neglected elderly, young people with no hope of further education, those who feel disempowered, useless or unlovable, those needing food and clothes or a visit: all of them are able to experience God’s love in practical ways that tell them that change is possible. Hope for permanent, positive lifechange truly is Good News for the poor. We thank God for people like you who support our work with gifts and prayer. You encourage us to keep on going. Be encouraged yourself by the stories in this magazine of lives being changed, and remember, you play a vital role in what we do. Thank you and warm regards

Andrew Wilks NZ Director

Overcomers magazine is published annually and distributed to everyone on the Mission Without Borders NZ mailing list. Extra copies are also available free of charge on request for distribution to interested groups, such as church Missions groups, craft and knitting circles, schools and youth groups. If you would like more copies, please telephone the office on 0800 469 269 (AK 309 6969). 2

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Contents 4

StreetMercy

Soup Kitchens and Prison Care

Child Sponsorship

Scholarships - Vocational

Summer Camp

Profile of an Overcomer

Feeding Body and Soul

Helping the neglected survive

A Better Future for Dumitru

Receiving An Education

Snippets from a camp in Moldova

Disability is no barrier

10 Families in Crisis The Ahmetovics

11 Emotional Support

The Search for a Deeper Love

Seeds of Hope

Helping families help themselves

13 Winter Rescue

Like Bread from Heaven

Profile of a Coordinator

Being a Family Coordinator is a great blessing

15 Family Sponsorship

Two Kiwi Sponsors share

16 Field Updates

Recent reports from our field country directors in Albania, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania and Ukraine

20 Operation Cover Up

A letter from Liz Clarke, information and Thanks from the children and families helped

22 New Zealand Activities

News and ideas from around New Zealand about Kiwis getting involved

OVERCOMERS 2015

StreetMercy Feeding Body and Soul

Victor (29) and Dimitrina (23) have been StreetMercy beneficiaries since 2013. From very young they both were abandoned and raised in orphanages. They always patiently wait for their turn to be given the daily soup and bread. Dimitrina is mostly blind which makes her dependent on Victor. She has two children, one in living in a foster home, the other in an orphanage. They want to get married, find a job and get the boys back but Victor has no identity card which makes it impossible. They used to live in an underground sewerage pit close to a busy boulevard. Harry Kouyoumdjian, the Mission’s co-ordinator, shares. “I saw something I would never forget. Among the sewerage pipes, two metres under the ground in a space of four square metres, they

had made something like a bed and a small table! Their only belongings a few kitchen utensils and some hygiene items! I have never seen them dirty or dishevelled. Also I was impressed by the way they spoke. I never heard them swear or blaspheme, so typical of many homeless people living on the street! They were eager to hear about God’s love for them and His word. They talked about their plans and dreams for the future and we discussed ways that they could be achieved. Then we parted with a prayer in front of the open sewerage pit.”

Street Mercy 2014 Statistics In 2014, Mission Without Borders served an incredible 54,000 hot meals to almost 2000 beneficiaries. This would not have been possible without your help.

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Soup Kitchens A Place for Everyone The MWB soup kitchens in Eastern Europe are at the heart of the community. In addition to nutritious food, they offer children, families and the elderly things like friendship and outings, medical care, English and computer classes, counselling and support, Bible classes, entertainment, delivery of meals, arts and crafts, distribution of blankets, shoes and clothing. Mission Without Borders is running 21 soup kitchens in cooperation with local churches spread over our six field countries, with five in Bulgaria, serving a total of over 176,000 meals last year.

Prison Care

Hope for the Forgotten Ones

Mission Without Borders helps prisoners in Bulgaria, Albania and Bosnia by visiting and distributing much needed ‘Prison Carepacks’. Each pack contains toiletries and hygiene items and confectionery. Clothing, shoes and Bibles are also given when we can. Men’s and Women’s prisons are visited. BELOW: Bulgarian prison inmates with MWB Director Sarkis Ovanesyan (front row, 2nd from left)

BELOW: Inmate happy with his carepack

OVERCOMERS 2015

Child Sponsorship A Better Future for Dumitru WE NEED SPONSORS We have children who need sponsors. To sponsor a child, please fill out the coupon on the back page.

Dumitru is a 12 year old Romanian boy who lives with his parents and his three younger siblings. The family live in a poor area of Suceava. They have no running water or sewerage. Most of his father’s meagre wage is spent on medication for his mentally ill mother, and finding enough to eat each day can be a challenge. They were introduced to the Mission three years ago. All the children are now sponsored and the family receives regular deliveries of food, clothing, shoes, school supplies, toys, furniture, and medicine. Dumitru doesn’t have a lot of friends because they are Roma gypsies, ‘second class citizens’. After school he has little time for homework because he has so many jobs to do – chopping firewood, feeding the horse and cleaning the stalls,

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

collecting eggs, washing the clothes by hand etc. He is well-behaved and hardworking. He loves sport and his dream is to become a forester when he grows up. Dumitru has attended the Mission’s Summer Camps three times. Camp has been the highlight of the year for him as he never goes on holiday. Every Saturday Dumitru is the first to arrive at the Mission’s children’s outreach meetings. He’s a quiet boy and it’s been difficult for him to share what he is feeling. One MWB Coordinator said “Dumitru has struggled with a life of hardship and poverty. His mother’s mental condition is also another burden for him. The biggest change I have seen in his life is that he is becoming more open during our

counselling time together and with the other volunteers. He is starting to talk about his problems and his questions about life. We want to help him because he is a good boy and he has great potential. Unfortunately, life is hard, even for his parents and they are not able to support him emotionally. But he is learning that there is a God who cares about him and loves him deeply and has only good things in store for him.” “Dumitru is a boy who has been made to grow up too quickly. He has a good heart and we truly hope and pray that his life will greatly improve and he will experience what it means to be a child with no worries”.

Scholarships-Vocational Receiving an Education brings joy to the whole family

Acquiring an education is a must to break the cycle of poverty and unemployment. In 2011 Alexandra from Romania, graduated from high school and passed the entrance exam for University, where she hoped to study her favourite subjects, Romanian and English. Unfortunately, the joy of being accepted was overshadowed by her family’s inability to pay for her tuition. She hadn’t received a scholarship and fees for the first year alone were over NZ$1100. However, because of the generous giving of an overseas supporter to fund a scholarship, Alexandra’s first year fees, her books and travel were all covered. Then, because of her good exam results the University offered her a scholarship for the next semester. The Mission continued to support her throughout her three years of study.

clothes... I cannot provide for their future. Praying is the only thing we can do. God has used Mission Without Borders in a powerful way in our lives. Like me, she has diabetes so she got tired and weary from commuting. But it didn’t stop her studying hard for every exam. Alexandra’s scholarship was not just for her - it was for all of us! I am so proud of her. My Alexandra – my teacher!” her Dad exclaimed. Alexandra told us, “Without help from the Mission I wouldn’t be where I am today. Now I hope to find a job in a business or become a teacher. I want to help my family and thank them for all they have done for me. I am grateful that there were so many people involved in my life and in my education. I owe them all so much. May God bless them.”

Alexandra graduated in June 2014 and she is now qualified in both Romanian and English literature! Her father told us the impact on the family.“As a father, I am unable to support my family and that is my greatest sorrow. Also, I cannot provide for food or

OVERCOMERS 2015

Summer Camp A Snippet from a camp in Moldova From the end of May until July last year, summer camps were held in the north and the south of Moldova. The camp programme includes lots of good food, fun and friends, chapel services, sport, competitions, drama, and counselling. The children have tasks to perform and a good standard of discipline is expected. The sleeping quarters, the bathrooms, toilets, and dining area are kept clean and tidy. Many children say they had never eaten such tasty food. One of the leaders who came to help at summer camp was a lady called Roza P. She was Anatoly Kirillov’s teacher 35 years ago and had taken care of him while he was living in a State Children’s Home. Anatoly is now Moldova’s Field Manager (see page 18). It was a wonderful, joyful reunion after 30 years. The seeds of her love and input from all those years ago had borne much fruit. At the end of camp everyone enjoyed receiving a special gift. Leaving camp is a sad time for both the children and leaders. Summer camp is not just about doing interesting activities, but more importantly about forming strong friendships and being loved and cared for. As Mission workers, we are blessed to have the opportunity to serve these children. Our greatest joy is to see them respond to God’s love which makes all the difference to their behaviour and outlook in life.

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

During the rest of the year the Mission runs other programmes such as: Bible Correspondence Courses; Emotional Support groups; educating young people about avoiding the dangers of human trafficking; and outings on the Dream Bus to the museum, zoo and McDonalds.

Profile of an Overcomer Disability is no barrier for this Summer Camp volunteer

Ylinka with orphanage children at Summer Camp

Ylinka’s life is typical of the disabled in Bulgaria – minimal government support and no help from relatives and friends. Despite her poor health, including diabetes and multiple conditions that cause her mobility difficulties, she wants to help others. She tells us why: “I had a brother who died from viral meningitis at the age of 14. That was a great tragedy for my mother and me. Since then, I love children very much. That is why I am involved with the children’s Summer Camp organised by MWB Bulgaria and try to help wherever I can.” Ylinka is 57 and has been a member of a MWB Bulgaria Disabled Citizens’ Club for many years. She separated after a violent relationship 20 years ago. Her mother died four years ago and she now lives alone. “My mother was my friend and I often feel lonely.” Ylinka’s disability pension is just NZ$123 per month. In Bulgaria if you have a physical disability, you are of no use. “I cannot find a job. No one wants me – only at a place for making paper bags – they offer me work once in 5 months and I make paper bags. For 100 pieces I get about NZ$3.00.” Actually, she is very skilful and makes wonderful things for the children at our summer camp (see picture at left). “I have three wonderful grandsons and they love spending time with me.” Because of her, they all came to the last Summer Camp organised by MWB Bulgaria. During the school year, they also attended the fortnightly children’s meetings at the Mission’s office. “When I am alone at home or with my grandsons, I love singing the songs we learnt at the Summer Camp.” Every year Ylinka serves on the team that packs our Christmas parcels, and Prison CarePacks. She also takes part in every event organised by the Mission. “My grandmother was the first to tell me about faith in God. She would say: ‘Ylinka, help people - that is the only thing that will endure, everything else will disappear.’ I believe in God, I read the Bible and pray. He is the one that has kept me until now despite all my illnesses. And I believe that He will not abandon me.”

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

OVERCOMERS 2015

Families in Crisis Hope for a Better Future

The Ahmetovics from Mostar, Bosnia (pictured), are one of many families supported through the Families in Crisis project. Unemployment is the main reason why this family cannot move forward. This family of five, including a grandmother, share one room of a house, living together in a tiny lounge area with only a stove and a table. Living on the outskirts of the city, life is difficult without any kind of transportation. During the Coordinator’s last visit, it became obvious they were in a desperate situation. The Mission provided them with new mattresses, furniture, food, hygiene items and clothes. Dominik, the father, was also given a bike so he could easily ride to a landfill to find some scrap metal to sell. The grandmother, Nafija, with tears streaming down her face said: “We couldn’t dream of having such beautiful new things like you have given us. Thank you so much! We struggle each day just with providing food, not to mention everything else. And this hurts. It hurts when you get up and there’s no food to give to your children. There are days when I wish I was dead. It breaks my heart to see my son and his family facing so many hardships, yet we just want to live a normal, decent life.” Dominik continues: “I don’t know how we are going to make it. I try to be a good dad and provide for my family, but I’m broken. You are a ray of light. You give me hope for a better tomorrow. As long as I see that there are good people like you, I have hope that we’re going to make it.¨

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

OVERCOMERS 2014

Emotional Support The Search for a Deeper Love stay home for a longer time when the baby is born. Both parents want to give their children a good education, to love them and become a ‘normal’ family. Keeping the children dressed, fed and sent off to school is a constant struggle for Lucica but she says God is looking after them. We are a happier family now. “Every night I pray with my children, I talk to them about the events of the day and I kiss them good night. Each one of them is important to me, just as I am important in the eyes of God. I want them to feel that they are loved and to know how to love others.”

The lack of meaningful relationships when growing up can lead to a lifetime of desperately searching for love to fill the void within. A few years ago we visited a family that had not long after they had enrolled with the mission. We found Lucica, the mother crying. Between sobs she shared: “I feel so lonely that I can hardly stand it. I want to mean something to someone but no one cares about me. My parents and I were never close, and when I got married I thought everything would change. I had two relationships before this one, and the one I have now isn’t much better. I don’t remember the last time anyone smiled at me or wanted to spend time with me. My heart is empty and I don’t know why I feel like crying all the time.”

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Lucica (33) had children from three different fathers. Now she was expecting her 11th child. After many conversations, counsel and prayer about her problems and profound grief, Lucica began to understand how much Jesus loved her and that He would always be there for her. Both Lucica and her husband Nicolae (37) are now Christians. The family still have their problems but life is much easier with God on their side.

Having a relationship with God makes it easier for them to relate to each other. It is our goal that all families enrolled in the programme learn how to grow in relating in both these ways.

It took time for Nicolae to accept Lucica’s children from her previous relationships, but now the children call him Dad. A few months ago, Nicolae went to Germany to do farm work. He sends money home and calls every week. On the day he calls, all the children stand by the phone waiting to talk to him. He will

OVERCOMERS 2015 11 11

Seeds of Hope Helping Families to help themselves

The Beza family with MWB Coordinator (at left). Their Seeds of Hope boxes have provided enough fruit and vegetables for them to eat, preserve, freeze and even sell so they can survive the winter months ahead.

The Beza family from Romania have been enrolled in the Mission’s Family to Family programme for five years now. Nicolae and Maria, have three daughters and two sons. Nicolae works occasionally as a bricklayer but his passion is agriculture. Because Maria is deaf and doesn’t keep good health, Nicolae looks after the family and only has temporary work. Mr Beza enjoys teaching his children how to garden. The moment they received the ‘Seeds of Hope’ box of seed packets, he said to one of his sons: “David! Bring me the tools! We need to plant these straight away! It was great to see the family working together. “If only you knew how much all these seeds mean to us. We are so thankful for them. It is like a present from heaven. It is very hard for me to provide for such a large family but it is incredible how God always provides for us. It is great that my children love my cooking and never complain about it,” Mr Beza shared. After three months our MWB Co-ordinator visited them again. The family had worked very hard and the results were incredible! They had built a simple greenhouse and their garden had produced eggplants, red peppers, onions, carrots, cauliflower, spinach, beans, herbs, tomatoes and fruit. They had even enough to sell, which would enable them to buy much needed items for winter such as warm clothes, firewood and school supplies. “We would have starved without the garden. These are hard times for everyone, especially for unemployed people in rural areas. You only have what you grow and the seeds would have been too expensive for us to buy. Thank you on behalf of my family for this great box of seeds. It’s such a blessing for us!”

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE PART OF THIS GREAT PROJECT? $25 will buy one parcel of good quality seeds for a family in our Family to Family Programme Please use the coupon on the back , call to make a credit card donation on 0800 469269, or go online www.mwb.org.nz – thanks for your support! 12

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

OVERCOMERS 2014

Winter Rescue Like Bread from Heaven

Above: Warm, happy children

The Stan family in Romania were enrolled with Mission Without Borders just over a year ago. Christian and Ionela have six children aged from 3 to 14 years. Both are unemployed so the only income is the children’s state allowance of (NZ$87 a month). Christian does occasional paid work for his neighbours using his horse and cart.

“God has always provided for us and we have nothing really to complain about. The Mission’s deliveries make such a difference to our lives. Just receiving these shoes and warm clothes and blankets, makes our day. We know there are many people like us in the world and we do not expect to be the only ones helped, but we appreciate everything.”

They live in a two-roomed house which is poorly furnished. The concrete floor is covered with old pieces of dirty carpet. One of the rooms doubles as a kitchen. There is no bathroom and only an outside toilet. They are not connected to the town water or gas supply. They use wood to heat the house during winter-time but when it runs out they use rags or whatever they can find. A local woodsman sometimes allows Christian to collect wood to help keep his family warm. Mr Stan told us,

The children’s shoes are old and broken, so they were delighted to receive new ones. Each family member received a beautiful blanket to help keep them warm. Ionela said, “It’s only God’s grace that the children didn’t get ill from the freezing temperatures. It could have been almost impossible for me to buy them any medicine.” The Stan family still struggle but remain positive and have hope that their situation will change for the better. They always say that “The Mission is like the bread from heaven for us” (Images from left) The family’s house// Mr and Mrs Stan // The family with MWB Coordinator (at right)

OVERCOMERS 2015

Profile of a Coordinator Being a Family Co-ordinator is a Great Blessing rewarding when I see women and children who are happy, not just for receiving material support but also for being given the opportunity to come to know Jesus. It is exciting to see changes in the way the families live, think and behave.

“My name is Arjana Spahija, I am 43 years old, married with two children. I’ve worked for Mission Without Borders in Albania since 2007. 1993 was a difficult year for me. I had been lying paralysed in bed for months. Because the doctors said there was no hope of recovery I was very depressed. My husband had become a Christian the year before and a lot had changed. I went with him to church one day and together with the pastor and his wife prayed for my healing. God did a miracle: He healed me! Straight away I gave my life to Jesus and promised Him that I would serve Him from that day on. As a Co-ordinator I visit 35 families and 85 children around Durres who are enrolled in the mission’s Family to Family Sponsorship programme. It’s

One particular family stands out. Their sponsor’s contribution had greatly helped to not only improve their living conditions but their emotional and spiritual well-being. Their two children, who are now teenagers, attend high school and are achieving good grades. One day their daughter came to me and said: “It is true, miracles do happen.” “Why?” I asked. “I wasn’t going to go to school this year but the encouragement and love you have given me have really helped me,” she replied, with tears rolling down her cheeks. I was deeply touched by this. It helped give me the motivation and strength to continue to do all I can in my role as a Family to Family Co-ordinator. I love Psalm 40:2: “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand”. One day I called out to God for help and He answered me and because of this I am aware of the cries and the despair of many other people in need. God is working in the lives of families, pulling them out of the pit of sadness, pain, violence, hunger and tears and putting their lives on the rock, which is Christ. Verse 3 says: “He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord.” Praise God that in places like Durres, we are seeing the fulfilment of this wonderful scripture.”

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

OVERCOMERS 2014

Family Sponsorship The Neli Family - now Overcomers

by Andrea Treasure

”I have supported the Neli family from Albania – Grandma Fiqerete and her grandson, Gerald, for 3 years, along with three other NZ supporters. $45 a month, some love gifts given as special projects, much prayer and a supporters’ tour visit in 2013 to see these two special people has culminated in an enriching and fulfilling friendship. Fiqerete is a dear lady who has lovingly brought Gerald up from a very young age. He is an exceptionally bright and engaging young man, who is currently studying Economics & Marketing at University. As he now has part time work and is able to support them both, they have been withdrawn from the Mission’s family sponsorship programme. This brings with it both a sense of sadness but also encouragement that they have finally ‘made it’. It has been a privilege to part of this amazing family who have faced many struggles, yet now they are Overcomers. I will continue to pray for my two special friends and leave them in God’s loving hands. PS If you are thinking of doing the 2015 Supporters tour, sign up today. You will be a changed person by being part of this amazing opportunity.”

Sponsor visit to the Petrescu Family

by Lynley Hansen

“It was a privilege to visit my sponsored family in Romania last year. Mum, Dad and their three little girls 7, 5 and 15 months were eagerly waiting for us. They live with four other families in the same house sharing the kitchen and bathroom. It used to be an outhouse. Each family has their own room to live in. A nicely tiled furnace provides wonderful warmth for the harsh winter conditions. A cot is at the end of the bed is waiting for the new baby to be born in February. It was tragic to hear how the mother had slipped on the ice causing her to lose one of the twins she was carrying. The father has bad back problems and had rods inserted some years ago. Near tears, he told me how he lay on his back in hospital in pain for 10 days until money was ‘found’ to pay for the surgery. At a glance I could see that this family will need help for some time. Driving away with a warm invitation to return, I have no reason to doubt that my sponsorship IS making a difference. I know it is for I have seen it.” WE NEED SPONSORS We have families who need sponsors now. To sponsor a family, please fill out the coupon on the back page.

OVERCOMERS 2015

Field Updates We asked each of our Field National Managers to highlight one area of their work in 2014 where they saw good fruit from their teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s labours; and then to say what their main challenge or focus is for 2015.

Albania Good fruit from 2014: It is not easy to work effectively in a dysfunctional country where the wealth gap is growing shockingly, where the younger generation lacks perspective and opportunities, and where almost 90% of the people interviewed during a survey about emigration admitted that they would leave the country if given the opportunity. Despite this, we can rejoice because we have seen the fruits of our ministry. Helping sponsored families is our main programme. Our help is not material only: we strive to help them understand that they should want to help themselves as only then help from others will really work. For several years now we have been focusing on helping families become self-sustainable. It is not an easy task, but we take one step at a time. In 2011 seven families were helped with qualifications, tools and supplies that contributed to help them acquire or practise a trade or profession, making them more independent. The number has grown steadily each year and we are delighted to share that in 2014, we helped 26 families start the process of taking their first steps towards a more solid future. Focus or challenges for 2015: To expand our ministry and the network of local partners, local churches, into the more remote corners of Albania. These areas are poor and the climate is harsher; the churches are small and young, but the need is great. With our experience and resources we shall do our best to aid the inhabitants of these areas through the local churches. This will help the churches grow stronger and become a voice in their communities. Sincerely, Monika Qerimi National Manager

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Bosnia Good fruit from 2014: I would like to mention that 2014 was an extremely difficult year for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The collapse of our economy resulted in protests in February 2014, with people setting State buildings on fire and after that the police making large-scale arrests. As that was coming to an end, Nature got wild and we had floods. Nearly half of the country suffered additional poverty on top of everything else. But in the midst of all of that tragedy with the help of the Missionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supporters and the grace of our Lord Jesus, we were able to provide for all families in our projects and also for many people who suffered from the floods. We experienced a lot of joy in sharing with those in need and they expressed gratitude for the goods received and more than that: that they were not forgotten. We were privileged to be Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s instruments of hope.

Belarus

Russia

Poland Germany

Ukraine

Czech Republic Slovakia Austria

Hungary

Slovenia Croatia

Moldova Romania

Sea of Azov

Bosnia Bulgaria

Serbia and Montenegro

Albania

Macedonia

Bulgaria Good fruit from 2014: Bulgaria is the poorest country in the EU. More than 1.5 million Bulgarians live in poverty (population 7.1 million). In Bulgaria the biggest problem is that 40% of the employed people (who out-number unemployed two to one) also live in poverty. So what can we say about those that have no job?! Yes, the country is in a mess politically and economically but that is one result of the spiritual poverty we live in and lack of any Christian and moral values. That is what we as a Mission and Christians can try to change. It was wonderful that we continued and even strengthened the family sponsorship programme during 2014. Last year, 17 sponsored families reached self-sufficiency through breakthrough projects we implemented. We succeeded in helping these families to buy animals (pigs, goats, hens), finish their houses, and even provide a chainsaw for firewood. Thus we hope those families will carry on managing independently to meet their needs.

Focus or challenges for 2015: The focus of our work is at the same time a challenge. We want to see more sustainability in the lives of our beneficiaries. That means work, job, business. It is hard to think that way when every other person is talking just about the harsh reality of life here and wants to leave the country. I hope we will make small steps as an example of creating a secure base for the lives of those we serve, in order to contribute to the Kingdom of God and to the benefit of all the people of Bosnia-Herzegovina

Focus or challenges for 2015: For 2015 we pray that the Lord of the harvest will send out devoted workers (volunteers) into His harvest field. We hope to be even more effective in our ministry among homeless and inmates (prisoners). It is really an open door God has given to us. We want to help homeless to be selfsufficient and prisoners to be integrated again in the community. I believe God can multiply the small and the weak and make them big and strong for His glory.

Sincerely,

Dalibor Kojic National Manager

Sarkis Ovanesyan National Manager

OVERCOMERS 2015

Moldova Good fruit from 2014: How wonderful is our God that continues to bless richly our country through our international supporters. The end of 2014 bore the fruit of a special collaboration between MWB Moldova and the local churches through providing necessary resources for developing a strong relationship with people in communities where there is no help â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and no hope. Many families that dreamed of building a brighter future for their children were helped to bring their visions to life by getting the tools and basic support to implement their business ideas. The goal is always to help them gain dignity and live independently of our help. Focus or challenges for 2015: Our 2015 main focus is to increase the impact of existing work among children and families and to enhance the connection of families with our supporting team, to help build a well-equipped church that will always be there when they are needed, even after the families start their self-sufficient life independently from MWB. Our prayer is to excel through unity in our common goal of Reaching people for Christ! May God bless you and we thank you for your support for all of us in implementing our goals! Sincerely, Anatoly Kirillov National Manager

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Ukraine Good fruit from 2014: One of the highlights was Summer Camps. Despite the war in the east of Ukraine and economic difficulties, we were still able to send nearly 1000 children to our five camps. There, children could immerse themselves into the atmosphere of love and care and forget about the war and related fears. Another thing that I think was very valuable is that we could be involved in helping many refugees displaced from the East who came to live in the Rivne region. Also, with the participation of the local churches, we were able to bring and distribute 2000 Christmas Love food parcels, clothing and roofing materials for the suffering families in the east of Ukraine (mainly in Slovyansk town).

Belarus

Russia

Poland Germany

Ukraine

Czech Republic Slovakia Austria

Hungary

Slovenia Croatia

Moldova Romania

Sea of Azov

Bosnia Bulgaria

Serbia and Montenegro

Albania

Macedonia

Romania Good fruit from 2014: In summary, changed life destinies through scholarships support. MWB Romania is targeting a most underprivileged group, where educational opportunities are minimal. The socio-economic environment here in Romania does not allow education for this large number of needy people. (Level of poverty – 40 % (2014) according to the National Statistics Institute.) The chance of education we are able to offer to these overlooked children or teens, is in fact THE ONLY CHANCE they will get for their future job and general means of survival. This is why in collaboration with the local churches, we aim for a total life-changing impact in their lives on both plans spiritual and educational. The responses from the students are always words like these: “If it weren’t for your support, I would have had to give up school as my parents cannot pay for the monthly fees given the fact that we barely manage with the living costs at home.” and “Thank you! - God bless you!”

Focus or challenges for 2015: We anticipate a very hard period for Ukraine. The economic crisis is getting worse and it’s clear that without the help of the international financial community we are doomed. UN officials talk about at least five million Ukrainian people who as a result of war will need humanitarian help in Ukraine. With God’s help and our generous sponsors in 2015, we want to help at least some of them – providing assistance to the Rivne-based refugees who came from the East of Ukraine as well as carrying on sending trucks to the East. Then of course we plan to continue helping our enrolled 500 sponsored families and nearly 8000 sponsored children. These are our biggest goals and challenges for 2015. Sincerely, Mykola Bohdanets National Manager

We are delighted to name this as The Highlight of our team’s work. Focus or challenges for 2015: Given the difficult conditions, in 2015, we are focusing on the key communities where we work, with a big focus on an increased effectiveness of our support through some more projects from 2015 onwards. 2015’s challenges? We have a big area to cover and a small team to do it with, so we are determined to channel the resources we are offered in the best most effective way, so that, as until now, many if not all, of our beneficiaries will know that GOD IS LOVE. Sincerely, Jimmy Macavei National Manager

OVERCOMERS 2015

Operation Cover Up Greetings to all our dear friends If I’d had known way back in 2000 what Operation Cover Up would achieve in 15 years, I would have had trouble believing it. It’ s been absolutely amazing how this project has mushroomed; it has literally blessed thousands of dear folk both here and in Eastern Europe. When I think of how it all started - I couldn’t knit, I wasn’t healthy, not good at bookwork, but I gave God what I had. It is like the biblical story of feeding the 5000. Blessing and using the little I had. A heart for the poor and needy! And He has done the rest using thousands of kind-hearted folk. I had a picture of myself on a tandem bike – I was sitting on the back holding my legs out to the side and laughing as we went down the road, up and down hills, just really enjoying the ride. Operation Cover Up has been like the ride on the tandem for me. I have seen many wonderful sights whilst riding along, felt the breeze of God’s love and laughed at the way prayers have been answered time and time again. Thank you all so much for everything you have personally done to make the project so successful and to have sent around 110,000 blankets and hundreds of thousands of other beautiful items to Eastern Europe is truly miraculous. We couldn’t have achieved what we have done without every single one of you. Blessings, Liz Clarke National Coordinator PS Sadly we lost two stalwarts among our men supporters last year Maurice Wells of Christchurch (who machined up nearly 900 blankets); and Jim Coster of Tauranga (a great baler - pictured in action below).

Matamata knitters

(Images from left) Jim Coster of Tauranga (right) and his baling team // Maurice Wells // Mother and daughter Coordinator team Elisabeth van den Berg and Elaine Border at their Nelson region’s display // Heather Stuart and Beth Wilson at their community Talent Day fundraiser, Riverton

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR KNITTERS AND COORDINATORS FOR THEIR WONDERFUL HELP

PREFERRED BLANKET SIZE The finished article, whether squares or strips, must be 160cm x 140cm. 7 strips measuring 160cm in length make a blanket. This is a good idea as it saves time when sewing up. Strips are knitted on old size 8 (4mm) needles. Cast on 40 stitches and knit stripes or blocks of colour in garter stitch (plain knitting) to 160cm length. For more information, contact a local Coordinator or check our Facebook page.

Getting involved

Funds for shipping costs

If you would like to know who your nearest coordinator is, knitting patterns, or information on gatherings please contact: North Island Coordinator: Mrs Liz Clarke, Phone (07) 378-9171 South Island Coordinator: Mrs Alison Jarvis, Phone (03) 688-0680

The Mission needs help to cover the costs of the project including freight and shipping the knitted goods to Eastern Europe. One shipping container costs over $16,000 to get to Romania or Moldova so as a guide we ask for a donation of $4.00 per blanket. Payments over $5.00 qualify for a tax rebate receipt (your name and address are needed). Payments can be made: • in cash (to your local coordinator) • by cheque made out to Mission Without Borders, PO Box 56264, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446 • by direct deposit or online banking payment to Mission Without Borders ANZ Bank account: North Island: 06 0185 0122206 04 South Island: 06 0185 0122206 05

What is needed • K nitted, crocheted and handmade woollen blankets and other clothing items • Items for sewing, embroidery, knitting and craft activities • Bed linen, towels, personal hygiene items

ALL ITEMS MUST BE NEW, PLEASE, NOT SECOND-HAND. No sleeveless “fish n chip” baby jumpers please. For more details, please contact a knitting Co-ordinator before you start.

Operation Cover Up is now on Facebook: facebook.com/MWBNZOCU For photos, patterns, information, stories - please visit and “Like Us” OVERCOMERS 2015

New Zealand Activities Great Fundraisers We know of some creative and successful fundraising that our supporters have been doing around the country. Money raised has gone to buy tools or seeds for families to help them become self-sustaining, pay for tools for an orphanage, for children to go to summer camp, or fund sponsorships. All sorts of ideas: cakes and preserves stalls, chocolate trufflemaking, garden parties, selling quilts or hand-sewn “art” or toiletry gift packs for Christmas, or running stalls in a shopping mall and even having a “Christmas Love parcel” float in a Christmas parade (Thanks Jenny, Murray and team from Wanganui). Ranui Baptist Church features MWB and Operation Cover Up (pictured Glenys Jensen OCU), on its Missions Sunday and raises money to support Romanian teenagers’ education. If you have done something, let us know and send us a photo so we can share it and encourage others.

MWB Ambassadors We have a growing number of reps who have visited one or more of our field countries and can talk to you or your group about our work. Judy Osborne, Hamilton (pictured left in our Romania warehouse with a Cover Up jersey) and Lynley Hansen, Christchurch (at right) are the latest to join the team. Please call us at the office if you would like to arrange a talk or visit.

YOUR FINAL WORD Leaving a Legacy - Changing Lives Forever If you would like to make a gift that continues beyond your lifetime, you can include Mission Without Borders in your Will. We recommend you consult with your solicitor or other professional adviser to make sure your wishes are clear. A sample wording is as follows: “I give, free of all duties and charges, to Mission Without Borders (N.Z) to be used for its work where it is most needed: The sum of $____________________________OR _________ percent of my residuary estate OR _________ (description of property or assets)”

If you or your adviser would like to discuss your wishes, please contact us on 0800 469 269 or email nzadmin@mwbi.org. If you decide to leave something to us, please let us know so that we can thank you now!

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

SUPPORTER TOUR 2015 COUNTRIES:

We are offering a tour for supporters and sponsors to Ukraine and Moldova for 2-3 weeks at the end of September 2015.

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the tour is to visit the projects of Mission Without Borders in those countries and to allow sponsors to visit their sponsored child or family.

COSTS:

It is only possible to give a rough estimate of costs of about $6,500 to $7500 for this trip, which should cover all flights, food, accommodation and internal travel.

Places are limited. To register your interest, please contact our office as soon as possible by email or telephone so that we can send you an application and information.

I would like to sponsor a Child ($45 per month).

Please see over for my details. I enclose my first sponsorship pledge of $________ by the following method.

Payment Options: Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Exp ______ /______

Credit Card Number

Name on Card_________________________________ Signature______________________________ I wish to make regular automatic payments from my credit card/bank account. Please send me an Authorisation Form to complete and return. (An Automatic Payment form can be downloaded from www.mwb.org.nz/giving) Direct Deposit to our bank account: Mission Without Borders Bank: ANZ Account Number: 06 0185 0122206 12 (Please use your name, supporter number and CRI as the payer reference or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org)

----------------------------------

-----------------------------------------------

I would like to sponsor a Family ($45 per month).

Please see over for my details. I enclose my first sponsorship pledge of $________ by the following method.

Payment Options: Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Exp ______ /______

Credit Card Number

Name on Card_________________________________ Signature______________________________ I wish to make regular automatic payments from my credit card/bank account. Please send me an Authorisation Form to complete and return. (An Automatic Payment form can be downloaded from www.mwb.org.nz/giving) Direct Deposit to our bank account: Mission Without Borders Bank: ANZ Account Number: 06 0185 0122206 12 (Please use your name, supporter number and F2F as the payer reference or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org)

----------------------------------

-----------------------------------------------

I would like to give to help (project) _______________________________. I enclose my payment of $__________. I would like to give a general donation of $__________ to your ministry and work. I would like to give a monthly donation of $__________ to your ministry and work. Please see over for my details. Payment Options: Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Exp ______ /______

Credit Card Number

Name on Card_________________________________ Signature______________________________ I wish to make regular automatic payments from my credit card/bank account. Please send me an Authorisation Form to complete and return. (An Automatic Payment form can be downloaded from www.mwb.org.nz/giving) Direct Deposit to our bank account: Mission Without Borders Bank: ANZ Account Number: 06 0185 0122206 12 (Please use your name, supporter number and Donation as the payer reference or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org)

Donate online at our website www.mwb.org.nz

0315

Yes – I would like to help change lives in Eastern Europe! I would like to sponsor a child through your Child Rescue International programme. Moldova Boy

Ukraine

Romania

Girl

Name

Supporter Number

Address Postcode Phone

I would like to receive your newsletters and Bridge of Prayer. POST TO (no stamp needed): Freepost Authority Number 229442 Mission Without Borders, PO Box 56264, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446

For more information please freephone 0800 469 269 OR phone 09 309 6969.

---------------------------------

----------------------------------------------0315

Yes – I would like to help change lives in Eastern Europe! I would like to sponsor a family through your Family to Family programme. Moldova

Ukraine

Romania

Name

Albania

Bosnia

Bulgaria

Supporter Number

Address Postcode Phone

I would like to receive your newsletters and Bridge of Prayer. POST TO (no stamp needed): Freepost Authority Number 229442 Mission Without Borders, PO Box 56264, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446

For more information please freephone 0800 469 269 OR phone 09 309 6969.

---------------------------------

----------------------------------------------0315

Yes – I would like to help change lives in Eastern Europe! My gift details are on the reverse. Name

Supporter Number

Address Postcode Phone

I would like to receive your newsletters and Bridge of Prayer. POST TO (no stamp needed): Freepost Authority Number 229442 Mission Without Borders, PO Box 56264, Dominion Road, Auckland 1446

For more information please freephone 0800 469 269 OR phone 09 309 6969.

Donate online at our website www.mwb.org.nz