Overcomers NZ 2018 web by Mission Without Borders International

2018

We are an international Christian organisation serving the spiritual, educational, emotional and material needs of those suffering poverty or oppression. We respect the dignity of the individual to help build selfsufficiency and a sustainable future. We serve people without regard to their religion or ethnic background. Our work is focused on Eastern Europe: Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania and Ukraine. 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

Dear Friend, In this magazine, we lay before you the lives of some of those who have come across our paths, in need and in want of help. The challenge is to see every needy person, every hurting family, every depressed community, as potential overcomers. If we only look at the darkness, we see nothing. But if we carry even a small light, the darkness retreats and we begin to get an idea of what our loving God wants for them: people coming out of the shadows of poverty, shame and despair and into new hope and new lives.

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

Contributors/Photographs: Elizabeth Wilks, Andrew Wilks, Liz Clarke, MWB staff writers. Design: Karen Power, Australia Printing: Roe Print Services, PO Box 78190, Pegasus 7648 ÂŠ 2018 Mission Without Borders (N.Z.) Bank accounts for online payments: General donations and sponsorships 06 0185 0122206 12 Bibles and literature 06 0185 0122206 25 Cover Photo: A little girl from a sponsored family in Romania.

As this magazine goes to print, our Eastern European friends are celebrating their Easter. And while Easter can mean many things, to those who have encountered Christ, it means two life-changing facts: the Cross and the Resurrection, the two most important events in the God-story of human salvation and redemption. A time of great hope. And as you turn the pages of this magazine, know that you have had a part in the good changes that you can see taking place in peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives, moving from downtrodden or addicted to overcoming. Thank you for helping us hold out that light of hope to those living in the darkness of despair in Eastern Europe. On behalf of the many thousands who have been helped and my Mission colleagues in Eastern Europe and around the world, God bless you.

NZ Director Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

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 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).

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

4-5 Updates from the Field Managers 6

Building a Church in an Atheist city

Pastor Timotei’s story

Reliving the Horror

Grappling with PSTD

Love and Hope in the Midst of War

Soup Kitchens/Community Centres/Prison Care

10 Summer Camp Stories 2017

Scholarships - Vocational Training

Making dreams come true

Child Sponsorships

Children Waiting for a Sponsor

StreetMercy

Hope and pain on the streets of Chişinau

Seeds of Hope

The life-changing gift of a greenhouse

“Every night I pray that she will return”

16 Winter Rescue

Not afraid of Winter now

Christmas Love Boxes

The joy of preparing and receiving the Christmas boxes

Family Sponsorship

Overcoming alcoholism through prayer

19 Families Waiting for a Sponsor 20-21 Operation Cover Up

News and information about the knitting project

22 New Zealand Activities

Latest news and happenings

OVERCOMERS 2018

Bulgaria Dear Friends, Bulgaria remains the poorest country in the EU. The motto of the recently begun Bulgarian Presidency is: United We Stand Strong. Unfortunately, our nation is divided. Many young ones go abroad because they don’t believe the country will change. They leave behind an ageing population. Last year it was reduced by almost 1% to 7 million. Every fifth person lives in poverty. Only God has a different perspective, He says, “I am making everything new!” Indeed, our hope is directed to Him who is the only one who can change the lives of the people we help. We continue with the development of our two communities in Krupnik and Gotse Delchev in the south-west. Our After-school classes are gaining recognition from teaching professionals, and some beneficiaries found employment after finishing their training courses. We plan to build more greenhouses and pig farms to help our families achieve a certain level of self-sufficiency. Our work with the disabled, orphans, the homeless and the prisoners is very important to us. In all these places we are serving the Saviour. There is still much work to be done but we trust the Lord to guide us. May God bless you all. Sarkis Ovanesyan, Manager

Romania Romania has been part of the EU for 10 years, but not much has changed. With high unemployment and inflation, people are going abroad to find work. Others go on strike and protest. Placards usually say: “We want a hope and a better future for our children”. Even in such desperate conditions, we know that God is with us and together with all our worldwide supporters we can bring hope to those who are discouraged. During 2017, we had the privilege to help thousands of children and hundreds of struggling families. We continue to run 3 different Community Projects. A laundry facility for families. A greenhouse, where beneficiaries can grow their own food. A bakery, for people to bake their own bread 3 times a week. 200 students received scholarships and about 1,000 children went to Summer Camps. December is an exciting month for us. Everyone worked hard to pack and distribute over 7,000 Christmas Love boxes. No-one complains because our efforts bring much joy and new hope to those we care about. A tangible way to show Jesus’ love. From our team and all those we look after, thanks so much for your support and prayers. Alexandru Danilenco, Manager

Albania We are grateful to our support countries and we’re particularly thankful to God for all our sponsors and donors – without them we could accomplish very little. Last year we had 85 new enrolments, making a total of 321 families. 25 young people received university scholarships. 12 Self-sufficiency projects were started and 69 families became self-sufficient. 2018 will be a difficult year for Albania - the political situation is very tense. The main political parties put their own interests first. They’re involved in corruption and trafficking scandals. The deplorable legal system keeps Albania’s future with the EU pending. All this makes MWB’s presence here more relevant than ever. This year we’re focusing on our new centre on the outskirts of Durres and the ex-swamp areas. We will continue to challenge the “sit and wait” or “surrender” mentality that prevails and is difficult to change. As we face the challenges that lie ahead, we rely on each other and of course on God’s grace. We can’t do anything alone; things are only possible when we work together, as it says in 1 Corinthians 12:1-27. God bless, Monika Qeremi, Manager

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Poland Germany

Moldova

We don’t look back at 2017 with regret for missed opportunities, but we look forward with expectant hope for 2018. We pray that the Mission will continue to be a blessing and a guiding light to the living Christ this year. ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matt 25:41 Kind regards, Tudor Lungu, Manager

Ukraine Dear Friends, It’s been 25 years since the Mission first started working in Ukraine. Our motto has always been the same: “Reaching people for Christ” and it is woven throughout all our programmes and projects.

Hungary

We faced the usual challenges: using funding wisely, building fruitful relationships and overcoming the difficult economic, political and spiritual environment we work in. Support from the local churches is vital for the ongoing effectiveness of our work here in Moldova.

Austria

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Thanks to our supporters we’ve continued to help our needy in many ways. We take care of over 6000 children and adults in our sponsorship and community-based programmes.

Ukraine

Slovakia

2017 was another year of political and economic uncertainty. People are tired of the lack of jobs, expensive living costs and ongoing poverty. Young people are fleeing the country in great numbers. Because of these hardships it’s our joy to help connect our beneficiaries to the source of all hope and love – Jesus Christ.

Czech Republic

Slovenia

Romania

Croatia

Bosnia & Herzegovina

Crimea

Sea of Azov

Serbia Montenegro Macedonia

Kosovo

Bulgaria

Albania

Bosnia-Herzegovina The migration of refugees throughout the world last year is reminiscent of the time of conflict and escape from our own war. And now our countrymen are fleeing again to various “promised lands”, because of hopelessness and lack of jobs. At least 5% of the population has left the country over the last three years. Even so, 2017 was a wonderful year with lots of victories behind us. Our Soup kitchens and Eldercare ministries are becoming more appreciated throughout the country by local and national officials and the media. Last year it was 500 years since the Protestant Reformation and churches nationwide organised events to celebrate. Bosnia is the least evangelised country in Europe, but believers, though few, are strong in faith. Both the families we serve, and our team, who are brave and tireless, have a tremendous passion to see the restoration of our nation. Though it’s difficult, we trust that the One who has started the good work in and around us to fulfil His promise. Our mission is not about barely surviving, but it’s about making people’s lives better. Thank you for your part in bringing change and hope into their lives. God bless,

Ukraine’s war-torn economy has been plunged into Dalibor Kojic, Manager crisis following the EuroMaidan Revolution and the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Mission made two relief trips to East Ukraine last year. We drove trucks full of food, furniture, clothing, mattresses, roofing materials and 2000 Christmas boxes for needy families. The items were distributed through our local partner churches in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts. As always, we continue to bring relief and help to children, families, the elderly and refugees. This year we will continue to support 500 poor families and around 7000 children living in 50 State Homes. Summer Camps continue to make a tremendous impact on children’s lives. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we sent 800 children to camp last year - the same number is planned for 2018. With God’s help and our generous supporters, we’ll continue to reach out to those in need. We value your prayers for Ukraine and for our work here. May God richly bless you. Mykola Bohdanets, Manager OVERCOMERS 2018

Building a Church in an Atheist City Pastor Timotei’s Story

Pastor Timotei

“Keep your head up! Keep your head up!” Pastor Timotei can be heard saying to a child in need of encouragement at the Mission’s After-School project. “I know what it is like to suffer as a child, to experience grief, poverty, confusion and heartache. So, I’ll never stop supporting children in this city and telling them about God’s love.” Pastor Timotei’s parents died when he was a child and he had to live in an orphanage. “I was angry at God for letting this happen but I realise now that He was preparing me for what I am doing now.” Aged 18 he went into the army and then afterwards, he got married. “After I got married I felt terribly alone, not physically, but spiritually. I had an out of body experience where I saw myself alone on judgment day. I cried out to Jesus to help me as I felt so exposed. That evening I still went to a bar with some friends, but as I sat there with a beer, I realised it was the last place I wanted to be.” When the Iron Curtain collapsed and the Revolution swept across Romania in 1989, Pastor Timotei moved to the city of Victoria. Known as the atheist city, all religion was banned, even the Orthodox church. “When I heard about this atheist city, I just knew I had to go there and tell the people about God and that passion has never left me. When I arrived, a 6

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Visiting a family//After-school class with MWB Coordinator Pastor Radu (left)

local shopkeeper asked me why I’d come. I told him and he just laughed and said, ‘Buy a beer and relax”. He started to build an evangelical church out of nothing. “There was no knowledge or fear of God here at all. I was persecuted many times in all kinds of ways. In the beginning, I started distributing Bibles and people burnt them in front of me. Once, when I was baptising a teenage girl, her mother burst into the church shouting and swearing, waving a knife in her hand. As she approached to try and stab me, I was filled with an indescribable feeling of calm. I put my arm around her even as she continued to swing the knife and we walked out of the church together to talk. Today, I’m still in touch with her.” Ten years ago, Pastor Timotei launched a Soup Kitchen at the church in partnership with the Mission in response to the huge needs in the city. This year, Pastor Timotei was appointed as an independent councillor for the local council and highlights unemployment and access to education as key problems in the city. “Please keep praying for us. The challenges are there but there’s also much joy. We hope that our supporters are encouraged by what is happening here. Put simply, we couldn’t do it if it wasn’t for them.”

Reliving the Horror

Grappling with PTSD

Many childhoods ended abruptly with the Bosnian War of 1992-95. Jasmir, now 41, was only 15 when the war began. “In a matter of days, my life and the lives of those around me were changed forever. I didn’t know what war was and how devastating it would be. For three and a half years all we heard were the sounds of gunfire and explosions. I’ll never forget the images of my friends being shot and wounded.” “I survived the war without being physically injured – but I was psychologically affected. But there wasn’t the time or the means to deal with it because I had to find work to provide for myself and later for my wife too.” But the trauma of the past caught up with Jasmir when his daughter was born. “Her birth was a joyful event, but it also triggered a deep anxiety of not being able to meet all her needs. Something within me snapped.”

Jasmir

“Whenever I closed my eyes, I relived my dreadful experiences of the war. I couldn’t control my behaviour and I suffered horrific flashbacks, nightmares and insomnia. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Taking medication and talking with my doctor helped a lot but still I felt as though I was only just surviving,” Jasmir explained. Drazan Jarak, our Family Coordinator enrolled the family into the sponsorship programme and soon heard all about the family’s problems. Jasmir’s wife, Izeta, 35, had her own history of trauma that she was struggling to overcome, plus she desperately needed someone to talk to about a recent miscarriage.

PSTD

“It’s been a privilege to work with the family. Both parents have experienced terrible life trauma and we’ve just had to listen, comfort and encourage them. It’ll be a long journey towards recovery but with support and God’s healing love they’re beginning to experience a happier, Around 400,000 people in Bosnia suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Over 4,000 war veterans have taken their own lives. A large part of the civilian population is still living with the war’s psychological consequences those who were imprisoned, assaulted and displaced.

Jasmir and Drazan

freer life. Their cow has been a source of food and income for them, plus they’re hoping to dig a well soon,” Drazan shared. “When I asked the Mission for help to buy some food for our cow, I couldn’t have dreamt about all the other support we would receive. I can’t describe what it means to have someone to count on and the positive effect it’s had on our lives,” Jasmir exclaimed.

Jasmir’s family

OVERCOMERS 2018

N AI

S RI

Love and Hope in the Midst of War

R K U

Yana, 60, lives in a town caught in the conflict zone. For 4 years there’s been a fragile balance between life and death. Both young and old keep dying with no prospect of peace. “At the start of the war, missiles constantly hit the houses. It was too dangerous to go outside so we stayed indoors for weeks, often without power or water. We ran out of food and only survived with the help of our neighbours,” Yana recalls. The local church continues to do everything possible for those suffering here. The Mission distributed 2,000 Christmas parcels and other aid to the needy last year, including Yana’s family. She is very thankful for this ongoing support. Yana’s husband lies bedridden due to a spinal injury in a tiny bedroom in their rundown house. Holding Yana’s hand and looking into her eyes, he exclaims, “Here is the love of my life!” Suddenly, the gloomy surroundings seemed unimportant in the light of this strong, invisible connection between the two. Danylo and Maksym, Yana’s two grandsons, live with them. “Before the war, the boys’ parents divorced and their father went abroad. Their mother remarried and took her sons to another town in the occupied zone away from us.” Yana begins to cry, but Maksym her grandson, tells her: “Don’t cry, Granny. Everything is okay now.” “Unfortunately, their mother died of cancer, and because of their step-father’s ill-treatment I decided to bring them here to live,” Yana shares. “When Granny entered the war zone to take us back, she was risking her life,” Maksym exclaims. Maksym accompanied our coordinator to the church youth group. “You know, I even liked my step-father in a way and I feel sorry for him. He tried to teach me to be strong by never crying. That’s how I did it. I didn’t cry when I said goodbye to him.” Many people are experiencing the heartache of leaving behind families and homes in the war zone. The trauma of war often provides us with the opportunity to share about the love of God and His constant presence with them. 8

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Soup Kitchens/Community Centres “I wouldn’t have made it without you” “My son was in a coma for 10 days. When I went to see him in the hospital, I was shocked – there were tubes everywhere,” relates 73-yearold widow, Roza. Roza lives with her son Bisser, 55, in Gotse Delchev, a beautiful town in southwestern Bulgaria where the unemployment rate is 50%. Roza receives a tiny pension and Bisser, whose wife left him, has been unemployed for five years. When he had a stroke, his horrified mother found him lifeless in his bed. Roza comes from a Muslim background but had become a Christian 20 years ago after her daughter became ill and the Imams couldn’t heal her. A local Christian group heard about the situation and prayed; her daughter was healed and became a Christian.

Bisser at the Soup Kitchen

“Those difficult days were filled with fear, but I had the prayer support of the church and the comfort of the Soup Kitchen Coordinator. I prayed fervently to God to give my son back. One day the miracle happened – Bisser came out of the coma. I was so thankful to God,” Roza shares. Their Muslim neighbours warned her that Bisser might still die so she should prepare for his funeral. But instead of listening to them, she focused on God. “In the Soup Kitchen when we would share about having faith in God, Roza would drink in every word,” Yliana, the Soup Kitchen Coordinator, comments. Gradually, Bisser began to talk, walk and eat. His improvement happened without any therapy. “This experience has changed my life. It made me think about death and where I was going to spend eternity. The love and care shown by the Christians helped me to understand how much God loves me,” Bisser shares. Now Bisser loves to pray and read the Bible and tells everyone about the miracle God did for him. “Without the love and food from the Soup Kitchen, I don’t know how I would have survived. I wouldn’t have made it without you. Thank you so much.”

Prison Care “I was in prison and you visited me” Matt 25:26 Partnering with other Christian groups, MWB ministers to inmates in Bulgaria and Romania and supplies Prison Care packs of needed hygiene items, clothing, shoes and Bibles. In Romania, MWB also runs a sewing course for women with life-skills training and facilitates family contact.

Romania

Care packs, Bulgaria

Bulgaria

OVERCOMERS 2018

Summer Camp Stories 2017 “It still feels like it was a dream. Good food, friends, great games and swimming. There was plenty of food, not just bread, but also cake and fruit. During the day we played, sang and learnt about life and God. I learnt new songs – ‘Hula-hula Hallelujah’. I forgot about home and its problems.” Amarilda comes from a very poor family in Albania.

“Summer Camp gives us the chance to feel like children again. The lessons taught me many things about God. Now I want to behave better and not envy others. I also know that God can take care of us and our families. Also, I know that Jesus has prepared a place for me in heaven.” Trayana, an orphan, who lives in an unhappy situation with a relative in Bulgaria.

“I wanted to hide under my bed and stay at camp for one more week. I enjoyed it so much and hope that I can come back next year. I loved swimming in the pool and eating mashed potatoes with butter. It was like spending a holiday by the sea. I learned about God, that He is with me and will help me.” Daniela, Moldova (father is an alcoholic).

“My mother deserted us, but in some ways, it’s okay because she used to yell at me and even beat me. At Summer Camp I made a lot of friends. We’d go for long walks and talk about everything. It was lots of fun and I was very happy until I had to leave, then I felt like crying.” Ela, Romania.

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Noa’s face shone with excitement going to Summer Camp. He loved playing in the sea and shouted: “Look at me everyone, look at me.” He took part in the creative workshops and received a ‘best friend’ award. For ten days he was made to feel very special. Noa has learning difficulties. His mother died 2 years ago and his father suffers from PTSD and ill health due to the Bosnian war.

Scholarships - Vocational Training Making Dreams Come True “My name is Ketjona and I was born in Berat, Albania, 22 years ago. I grew up in a family of eight. I am the only one who has been offered a scholarship. My family is poor and finances are a constant struggle. My grandparents cannot afford any medicine and my parents haven’t been able to find work abroad On finishing secondary school, I had no money so any further education would have been just a dream. With much difficulty and sacrifice, my parents managed to cover my expenses for the first year of my studies but the struggle was too much. The scholarship changed everything. Now I have just finished my second year at the University of Medicine in Tirana where I am focusing on General Nursing. My goal is to finish my studies successfully and be good at what Jesus has chosen for me. I hope to make a better future for my family and repay their sacrifices. Your support has helped my family survive and provided me with an opportunity I never thought I would have. You have strengthened our faith in God. Thank you so much.”

By supporting a disadvantaged teenager in Eastern Europe through our Scholarships and Vocational Training programme, you will help to change a life, a family and a community. Scholarships may include tuition fees, transport costs, school supplies, accommodation and food.

Ketjona when she was first enrolled with MWB with Family Coordinator, Sonila Sinaj

Email nzadmin@mwbi.org or phone us 0800 469269 for more information.

OVERCOMERS 2018

Child Sponsorship

“Every night I pray that she will return”

Rusalina with her aunt and cousins

“The time we spent together was precious. After she left, I cried until my head hurt,” Rusalina, 12, says. Rusalina lives in a small village in south-eastern Moldova. Her mother, like many other parents, left the country in search of work. The first time she left, she didn’t return for six years, but last summer she managed to visit. “We talk by phone when possible. She said she was going to make it for New Year but she didn’t arrive,” says Rusalina Rusalina’s father abandoned her mother when was pregnant. Her grandmother, in whose care she remained, died last year. She now lives with her aunt and uncle and their three children. “Of course, we would like to hear from Rusalina’s mother more often. She works as a maid in Russia, but she earns very little. She sends home a small package from time to time,” Rusalina’s aunt, Ecaterina shares. Their home reflects their difficult circumstances: a dark, windowless living room, crumbling walls and worn furniture. Their village looks half-deserted. Many old houses are desolate, the newer ones or those under construction are locked up – their owners gone abroad. About 1,600 of the

2,665 people in the village have left. “Our neighbours across the road have gone to Russia, and in the house behind us the mother has gone and left her children with their grandmother,” Ecaterina says. Rusalina is a lovely girl and a great help to the family – but there is always a longing in her eyes. “It’s good to be with my aunt, but who can be more precious than my mother? Every night I pray that she will return. I ask her all the time when will she come home.” However, each time it is the same vague reply – so for now, all Rusalina has is her photo. When children like Rusalina are supported through our Child Sponsorship programme, besides going to summer camp, they have the opportunity to attend the Mission’s afterschool classes. Rusalina loves the learning activities. She also receives a hot meal and plays with her friends. Quietly eating her meal, Rusalina shares, “I like coming to the centre with my friend from school. The meal is tasty, the people are kind and loving. We play, sing songs, colour in and learn about God. There are interesting magazines full of poems, songs and stories about Jesus. When I have a problem, I’ve learned to pray - God hears and helps me.”

Sponsorship brings so much HOPE to these left-behind and forgotten children 12

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It takes only $45 a month to change a life forever. To become a sponsor simply:

• Fill out the sponsorship coupon on the back page or • Ring 0800 469 269 or • Email us at nzadmin@mwbi.org or go to our website www.mwb.org.nz/sponsorship and complete the online form

Become a sponsor today - it will change their lives and yours!

Diana (12), Moldova

Larisa (10), Romania

Yulia (8, deaf), Ukraine

Evghenii (9), Moldova

Andrei (13), Romania

Olexiy (6), Ukraine

OVERCOMERS 2018

StreetMercy

Vasile

Hope and Pain on the Streets of Chişinau

It’s minus 17 degrees in the city of Chişinau, Moldova, one of Eastern Europe’s poorest cities. It’s the most vulnerable time of year for the homeless, who, as well as having to survive the bitter cold, face hunger, depression, rejection, addiction and the many dangers of living on the streets. On days like this, people wander the streets alone with their heads bowed low. Some collect plastic bottles before disappearing into abandoned basements or doorways before night falls. Their lives are filled with hopelessness, but for one homeless man, Vasile, there is a familiar but different story. “There are many dangers in living a homeless life and you feel insecure all the time,” Vasile says. He’s been living on the streets since his youth and became involved with crime, ending up in prison for 15 years. While there he was given a Bible and it changed his life. Despite finding faith, Vasile found himself on the streets again when he was released.

Enjoying a hot meal

“I was ‘adopted’ by the Mission and the church. They give me warm food five days a week and have found me some work doing cleaning and odd jobs.” Today, Vasile is doing alright and has found a small place to live. “I am thankful for what I have, especially for the warm boots. I consider myself a happy man despite all my failures in life. But mostly I’m happy because I have Jesus and that after all that I have done, I am forgiven.” Stories like Vasile’s are the exception rather than the rule in Chişinau where there are hundreds more homeless men, women and children desperately in need of help. 14

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Doing some odd jobs

Seeds of Hope

The Life-changing Gift of a Greenhouse “I was 17 when I gave birth to our first son and a month later my husband went to prison. I was alone and had nothing,” Andreea tearfully shares. Her husband Laurentia had been unemployed and with a new baby to support he impulsively took part in a robbery, but was caught and sent to prison. “Everybody told me to leave him, but I wouldn’t.” “For nearly four years I worked hard picking blueberries, not just to feed my son, but also for the bus fare to visit the prison 70km away. I was determined that one day my family would be together again.” In a small Romanian town where only 1,000 out of 7,000 are employed, it’s hard enough for anyone to get a job, let alone an ex-convict. So, despite being free, life for the family was now even harder than before. Over the past year MWB has worked with the local church to launch the Greenhouse project which gives 10 struggling families a plot of land to develop so they can learn new skills and provide for themselves. Andreea and Laurentia were the first couple to be enrolled into the greenhouse project. “You are the only ones who have given me a chance,” Laurentia tells

us. “It feels good to be trusted. I’ve had so much rejection, it means so much to me. You have accepted me and my past.” Today, you will find Andreea and her small son walking home from their plot of land with a bag of fresh vegetables. Despite the poverty, as you step into their clean and tidy one roomed house with Andreea preparing a meal, there is an atmosphere of love. Andreea sums it up,“The past few years have been a big trial for us but our love has become stronger through it all. I’m a fighter; I had to fight. All I want for the future is for us to stay together and

Andreea and Laurentia and their sons

for our children to have more opportunities than us. We’re struggling to make a better life for them, but this project is a huge help.” “The mentality of hopelessness is our biggest obstacle here. Every struggling family believes that the only solution is to leave and go elsewhere. There are no guarantees that they will find a better life, so we encourage parents to pull together and work hard to change their situation. This project provides them with the start and the opportunity they need to do that.” - Pastor Timotei (See page 6 also).

Working in the Greenhouse

OVERCOMERS 2018

Not Afraid of Winter Now

The Dubceac family with Mission Coordinator Andrei (at left)

“All week I had been asking myself and God, ‘How are we going to survive the winter?’ Seeing our small pile of branches by the front door get smaller, I became increasingly fearful – it was all the firewood we had and it was growing colder each day,” explained Cristina, mother of five. The Dubceac’s family home hadn’t been heated properly for days. It was so cold inside you could see your breath. Cristina would soon be taking their youngest daughter, Vica (2), to hospital for ongoing treatment for hydrocephaly and she was worried about how her family would cope in her absence. Then one day, the family (now all Christians) received a call from the Mission’s Coordinator Andrei telling them that there would be a delivery of goods. As the back doors of the van opened, the family looked at one another in amazement, unable to believe that all this firewood was for them. They eagerly unloaded it and Alexandru, the father, immediately lit a fire in the stove. “Mum, will we sleep today without hats and gloves?” asked Ciprian, warming up his small hands over the heating stove. After that, Andrei brought in bags of clothing footwear for the family. “All this for us, too? Let the winter come! Now I’m not afraid that my children will be cold!” Cristina exclaimed. The boys tried on the boots and coats with much excitement, jumping and shouting, “This is for me!” “No, it’s for me because it’s smaller!” “I look like Spiderman. I like this so much!” “Finally, I have warm gloves and I can build a snowman outside without Mum asking all the time, ‘Isn’t it too cold?’” Ema, the older girl, shyly whispered in her mother’s ear, “Look at this black coat, Mum. This is just what I wanted! And the warm boots – they’re so nice and fashionable!” “What can be better for a mother than to see her children warm and happy. I love them so much!” said Cristina with tears in her eyes. “For me, as the head of the family, seeing my family happy means everything to me. Because we have all we need for the winter, we can use our savings for Vica’s hospital stay. We are very thankful to the Mission and to all those people who care about our needs and the needs of other families like us. One day we hope to become self-sufficient and to help others,” Alexandru said. 16

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Christmas Love Boxes

The Joy of Preparing and Receiving the Christmas Boxes

Volunteers preparing Christmas Love boxes (Elena at right)

Each year the Mission staff and volunteers in Bulgaria prepare and distribute over 2,000 Operation Christmas Love boxes for destitute families, children and the elderly. Packing begins in November. Many volunteers are from clubs for the elderly, supported by the Mission. Several have health issues or disabilities, but they still happily join the team. One volunteer, Elena, is unable to use her right hand. “I’ve been coming for five years now. When I pack the boxes, I think about the people who will receive them. My husband and I are both disabled and receive a small disability pension, but there are those who are in worse situations than us. That’s why it’s a joy to help them,” she explains. Another volunteer, Nedyalka, adds: “It’s my second year helping. I really like the positive atmosphere and the good relationships in the team. By offering to help in preparing the boxes I feel useful.” One family who received boxes lives in southern Bulgaria. Snezhana and her husband Asen have three young children and haven’t been employed for years. The Mission’s Coordinator, Emil Metodiev, visited them one day, carrying two Christmas boxes through the deep snow to their isolated home. “This is the first time that someone has cared about us. People who aren’t our relatives have given us food with no strings attached. We could never afford these extra treats so this is the first time our children have tasted them. These parcels are a means of survival. They are a real treasure to us. We’ve never had so much food all at once in our home,” Snezhana shares. “For us Christmas has always been a traditional holiday with a simple meal. Nothing else. But from Emil we heard the Christmas story of Jesus – and now we know that Christmas is a celebration of the day when He was born to become the Saviour of mankind,” Asen said. “Families like these feel our love and care and are very thankful for what they receive. It makes them feel accepted and special and opens the door for us to share about the true meaning of Christmas.” - Emil Metodiev, Coordinator. OVERCOMERS 2018

Family Sponsorship Overcoming Alcoholism through Prayer

Florin, now a changed man

“When I got there the father was livid. He was cursing and screaming,” Ilie, one of the Mission’s Romanian Coordinators recalled. “I asked the children to go to another room and the parents to sit down. Then I started calmly to tell them about how Jesus can change lives. At one point, the father jumped up and grabbed an electrical wire from the ceiling and threatened to electrocute his wife. That night he needed money to pay off his debts and buy even more alcohol; he believed his wife had hidden his money. “After some more outbursts, he finally calmed down and allowed me to pray for him. As soon as we finished, he grabbed his wine bottle and rushed outside. I followed and watched as he poured the drink out on the ground and swore to never drink again.”

Florin and his family when they first became sponsored

ease through the monthly food and hygiene parcels. The family were also supplied with clothes, shoes, and new furniture. His children went on their first holiday ever to Summer Camp, even though they still had concerns about their mother’s safety being left alone with their father. Three months later Florin promised Ilie that he never wanted to drink again and that he wanted to start going to church. “He needed God,” Ilie says. “He’s now part of a fellowship group where he feels accepted and loved. Three years have passed and he is a different man. He’s not drinking and he has finished building a house which he couldn’t do when all his money was spent on alcohol. “Every day I feel such hope for the future,” Florin exclaims.

For years Florin, the father, had struggled to raise his family in rural Romania, and the worse it got, the more he drank. “I was here, but I was never here,” he shares. “I even drank during the night, always keeping a bottle under my bed. When I woke up, I would drink. I hated everyone. My neighbours were my enemies and my children would run and hide from me. Everywhere I looked I saw people staring in judgement, making me feel guilty.” After becoming enrolled in the Sponsorship programme, Florin’s financial burdens started to

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Florin, his wife and son

Families waiting for sponsors It takes only $45 a month to change a family’s life forever. To become a sponsor simply:

• Fill out the sponsorship coupon on the back page or

• Ring 0800 469 269 or • Email us at nzadmin@mwbi.org or go to our website www.mwb.org.nz/sponsorship and complete the online form

Become a sponsor today - it will change their lives and yours!

The Varga family from Romania struggle to make life easier for their children. The father works as a labourer even though he suffers from severe back pain. They need support.

The Angelov-Stefanova family from Bulgaria live in one small room. The family are in desperate need of help, surviving on the father’s minimal factory wage.

The Crutarciuc family from Moldova live poor circumstances. The father often goes abroad to work in Russia. Though the parents work hard, it’s not enough to meet their needs.

The Hysollari family is from Albania. The father is a builder and the mother is a seamstress. With sponsor support we hope to provide them with the tools and job opportunities to improve their life.

The Kuchmich family from Ukraine, is a poor Christian family. They live with an aunt in her house. The father works in construction; the mother is unemployed.

The Manjgafic family is from Bosnia. Both parents work hard and have recently become Christians. The father collects scrap-metal but hopes to build a greenhouse on their plot of land. The mother is president of the local Roma association.

OVERCOMERS 2018

Greetings dear friends, When I was considering what to write, the word Peace came to mind. Life certainly has it’s twists and turns, often unexpected. There is so much peace in accepting what is. This relates especially to my ongoing health issues. Peace is tranquillity, calmness, restfulness and contentment. Mother Teresa said, ‘Peace begins with a smile’. Those of you who knit or create for others will know the peace and contentment from doing something for others less fortunate. In coming together in our groups, we are each doing our bit to foster relationships between different people and groups, which leads on to peace in the wider community and the world. Sadly, we have lost three of our co-ordinators recently. Bev Cullingford, who was the Thames Coordinator, and a special friend. Bev worked tirelessly to make Operation Cover Up so successful in her area. She travelled to Eastern Europe twice visiting the work of the Mission there. Also, Irene Downes from Havelock North and Thea Hillebrand from Beach Haven in Auckland passed away. Unfortunately, I didn’t meet Irene in person, but felt I knew her through our phone calls. Thea I did meet and she had willingly helped for many years. They will all be sorely missed. I apologise for my lack of communication at times due to ill health, but hope I’ll be more ‘hands on’ again soon. Thank you so much for what you’ve done and are doing to make Operation Cover-Up so worthwhile and special. I truly do appreciate it more than I can say. Liz Clarke National Coordinator

Photos: clockwise from left: Matamata 90 year olds, Shirley Wallace and Shirley Pettigrew//Margaret Morritt, the late Beverley Cullingford, Thames Mayor Sandra Goudie, Andrew Wilks//Blenheim ladies – Hazel Crouchley (left) and friend // Cynthia Low , Rangiora.

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

A HUGE THANK-YOU to all those who helped with the Operation Cover Up project last year.

Bulgaria

Albania

Bulgaria

Albania

Getting involved For information on knitting patterns, local Coordinators, or gatherings please contact: North Island: Liz Clarke, Ph (07) 378-9171 South Island: Alison Jarvis, Ph (03) 688-0680

What is needed in 2018 Knitted items for children and adults (ages 2 years and above - no babywear please): • • • •

jumpers cardigans socks 3-piece sets of hat & gloves (or mittens) & scarf

Blankets or quilts need to be large size – please see “Preferred blanket size”. Non-knitted items: • • • •

Hygiene items (soap, flannel, stick deodorant, toothpaste, tooth brush, hair comb or brush) shoes for children and adults toys stationery (exercise books, notebooks) ALL ITEMS MUST BE NEW, PLEASE, NOT SECOND-HAND.

Funds for shipping costs

We need your help to cover these costs. Each container costs over $16,000 to get to the Field Countries so as a guide we ask for a donation of $4.00 per blanket. Payments over $5.00 qualify for a tax rebate receipt (name and address are needed). Payments can be made: • in cash (to your local coordinator) • by cheque (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

Preferred blanket size

Blanket size: 160cm x 140cm. 7 strips measuring 160cm in length make a blanket. Use size 8 (4mm) needles. Cast on 40 stitches and knit in garter stitch (plain knitting) to 160cm in length. Larger 160cm x 160cm blankets are also appreciated. For more information, see Facebook or contact a local Coordinator.

OVERCOMERS 2018

Introducing a new team member We have a new part-time staff member based in our Auckland office. From mid May, Andie Davies will help us get the message out especially in the wider Christian community that good things are happening in Eastern Europe. Andie’s main focus will be to help us reach a wider audience through churches, social media and community events.

2018 Supporters Tour

Leaving a Legacy

Our next Kiwi supporter tour to Eastern Europe will during September-October. While places are taken for this group, let us know if you would like to join a future tour group or would like to visit your sponsored child or family as part of a private trip.

Over the years the Mission has been blessed to be the recipient of generous gifts by our supporters in their wills. If you would like to make provision for a legacy gift, please contact us for our “Leaving a Lasting Legacy” brochure. We are also happy to discuss your intentions, if guidance is needed.

Fundraising Idea - book for sale Our Whitby Operation Cover Up Knitting Coordinator, Jocelyn Murray-Currie, has recently published her third book, God’s Heart for the Poor. She has generously made signed copies available for sale through the Mission at $10 plus postage, with all proceeds going to the Mission. The book makes a great resource for personal or group study, or for preparing a sermon – and a great gift. Order your copy by phoning us on 0800 469 269 or go to our web site mwb.org.nz/Shop.

We remain humbled by the selfless and creative ways our supporters raise funds to support our work. Church events, mission offerings, garage sales, sales of produce or baking, foreign coin collecting, craft sales, are just a few. Thank you so much to everyone who has been involved in their community to raise support and awareness of the needs in Eastern Europe. 22

MISSION WITHOUT BORDERS NZ

Yes! 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: 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 (if any) and CRI as the payer reference and OC18 as the code or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org) Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Credit Card Number

Exp ______ /______

Name on Card_________________________________ Signature______________________________

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Yes! 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: 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 (if any) and F2F as the payer reference and OC18 as the code or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org) Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Credit Card Number

Exp ______ /______

Name on Card________________________________ Signature______________________________

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Yes! I would like to help Project I would like to give to:_____________________________________________________ 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: 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 (if any) and Donation as the payer reference and OC18 as the code or email confirming these details to nzadmin@mwbi.org) Cheque (payable to Mission Without Borders) Amex Visa Mastercard Credit Card Credit Card Number

Exp ______ /______

Name on Card_________________________________ Signature______________________________

Donate online www.mwb.org.nz

OC18

Yes! I would like to sponsor a Child ($45 per month) 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 two-monthly Bridge of Prayer. Please send me information about leaving a gift in my Will 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.

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----------------------------------------------OC18

Yes! I would like to sponsor a Family ($45 per month) I would like to sponsor a family through your Family to Family programme. Moldova

Ukraine

Romania

Albania

Bosnia

Name

Bulgaria

Supporter Number

Address Postcode Phone

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

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Yes! I would like to help

OC18

My gift details are on the reverse. Name

Supporter Number

Address Postcode Phone

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

Donate online - www.mwb.org.nz