CONNECT January – March 2022
agazine M
BUILDING
Kingdom
THE
James Vaughton in the Balkans Engaging young people in mission University mission outreach Heart Cry Prayer Diary
EDITORIAL
I will build My church has finally approved legislation that recognises the small alliance of evangelical churches. There had been concern that only Orthodox churches would be approved as places of religious activity. The church is growing, and scores of people are coming to faith. There are many exciting new church plants needing accommodation. Bible schools are springing up, yearround humanitarian projects require suitable amenities. TEN is providing support and working collaboratively with its partners. Read about these developments on page 10. We’ve lots of news to share and progress to report. We are seeing new initiatives taking shape. UK supporters are giving generously towards our work. The TENteach online English classes have completed a successful pilot. A new missions course, For the Nations, has enabled young people in UK churches to meet online with young Christians in Eastern Europe. We hope you enjoy this edition of Connect and do get in touch regarding matters of interest.
The Balkan and East European nations are renowned for their splendid cathedrals, spectacular domed orthodox churches and grand mosques complete with minarets. Once hidden underground and meeting in secret to avoid the police, evangelical churches have emerged over the last thirty years to occupy their own buildings; converted apartments, rented halls, public libraries, former coffee shops. In many rural areas, there are no buildings for the church to use as meeting places. Families often struggle to keep a roof over their heads. During the warmer months, many church gatherings take place outdoors, but in the winter there is the need for shelter. Even in the cities, churches often find it difficult to rent facilities, especially where the owners are either devout Orthodox or Muslim. We were thrilled to hear that the new government in Montenegro
TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK Registered office: 23 Apex Court, Woodlands, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4JT Tel: +44 (0)117 961 5161
Email: info@ten-uk.org
transformeuropenetwork
Web: ten-uk.org
transform_europe_network 2
TEN Magazine written and produced by the TEN team. Design by Simon Petherick Graphic and Web Design. Transform Europe Network (TEN) is the operating name for Eurovangelism. Registered in England and Wales as a charity (no. 1140592) and company limited by guarantee (no. 7507682).
Contents
Welcome I love the time between Christmas and New Year. A pause. An opportunity to look back and consider, to think and pray about God’s plans for the year ahead. At TEN we are encouraged by the year that has passed, despite the challenges related to the pandemic, and we're also very excited about the coming year. We’re looking forward to celebrating 30 years of Harvest for the Hungry! Whilst we anticipate new opportunities, there are also those prospects we do not yet see. During my visit to the Balkans in the autumn, it was encouraging to include meetings with several young leaders who have a sense of God’s call on their lives. We are beginning to consider how we develop relationships with younger, upcoming leaders in Eastern Europe. Please pray that God will shine his light on the path we should take. In the UK we anticipate the launch of TENteach, following the trial run a couple of months ago. We also plan to roll out For the Nations—our new resource to encourage an understanding of God’s plan for the world and our part in that plan to help build links with partners. As ministries continue to develop, please pray that our partners in Europe will know God’s leading in the coming year. There is political uncertainty for nations like Bosnia and Herzegovina (see p.12). Pray especially for those delivering leadership and theological training in North Macedonia, Albania, Romania and Kosovo where new leaders will be equipped for ministry in 2022. Please pray that many lives will be transformed in 2022. Thank you for continuing to co-work with TEN and our partners in the year ahead. Although we may not see all that 2022 will bring, we seek to trust Him who holds the year ahead.
James Vaughton, CEO, TEN
4 My visit to the Balkans James Vaughton 6 TEN Snippets 10 Building for the Kingdom 11 Granny Slobodanka 12 Prayer Focus Bosnia & Herzegovina (BiH) 13 Heart Cry Prayer Diary January – March 20 Engaging young people in mission 21 University mission outreach 22 TEN Snippets 24 A letter of gratitude from the mother of an addicted man 26 TENteach update 27 Thank you Via Egnatia & WinterHelp
Harvest for the Hungry 30th Anniversary will be launched in Bristol on Wednesday 27th April, 2022. More details to follow. Contact: info@ten-uk.org
Cover photo: Baptism of Timoteh, via Marino Mojtic, Skopje
3
My visit to the Balkans James Vaughton shares highlights of his recent visit to the Balkans.
I have not been to the Balkans for two years and with the virus, lurking like a bully who has faced a setback and trying to make a comeback, I headed to Albania. I was greeted at Tirana Airport by the smiling faces of Hervin Fushekati and Erion Cuni and whisked off to visit Erion’s church and have lunch. I met TEN friends; Fetije at Riverbank Church, Edijola and Gjeorgji from Mission Possible Albania and Turi and Noku. Ignoring childhood advice, I talked with strangers too.
The hotelier in Tirana met my need for a cup of tea one afternoon and fascinating conversations with new ISTL lecturers from Hungary, a young Albanian couple watching football and missionaries from El Salvador were enlightening. As we visited a museum in the mountain town of Kruje, Hervin, ever the tourist guide, (as well as church and theological college leader) told the story of Skanderbeg, a Christian Albanian hero. Mountains were our constant companions as we drove through Albania on into North Macedonia. Erion broke the journey for me to meet new TEN connections, Ardit and Ranja. They are ISTL students sacrificially giving themselves to ministry in rural borderlands. I was picked up in North Macedonia by Petre Petrov, leader of the Evangelical Church in North Macedonia. We stopped by the exquisite Lake Ohrid in Struga and met with local pastors, Emil and Vesna. Over four days we drove through apple orchards, vineyards, tomato plantations and tobacco farms.
SERBIA MONTENEGRO
TIRANA
KOSOVO
PRISTINA
NORTH MACEDONIA Bitola
ALBANIA
GREECE 4
Ragged smiling children and ramshackle houses reminded me of the partners' commitment to love those forgotten by most. I had a wonderful day with the partners in Bitola, North Macedonia and then it was south to Gevgelio where I was again struck by the commitment of those serving God in these nations. Zoran, and his son Mile and wife Katerina were building a campsite as they fulfil their call to share the love of Jesus. Travelling north again, we paused in Radovish where Robert and Krasi are planting a church. On to Shtip for the night and then to Kumanovo and Skopje before meeting Artur Krasniqi at the Kosovo border. We took the route the British army took in 1999 to Pristina. My stay in Kosovo allowed me to meet the team at Fellowship of the Lord’s People Church and visit their amazing work through Mercy Ministries. I was taken to the second-hand clothes shops that helps sustain the ministry and presented with a new shirt. A visit to a densely populated Roma community in Pristina where narrow streets, ragged smiling children and ramshackle houses reminded me of the partners' commitment to love those forgotten by most. The Mercy Ministries team were there to give out food parcels. After a visit to the Illyria Bible School I was taken to the House of Hope in Milosheva, where Alban, another young visionary, told me of his plans for a new youth ministry in Kosovo. For nine energetic days, I was blown away by the commitment of marginalised Christians, caught off
guard by stunning views, delighted by great food, enchanted by the telling of stories, struck by the kindness of strangers, shocked by the poverty I saw, surprised by the toothless smiles grinning amidst that same poverty and wondered at the generosity of Transform Europe Network partners. It was such an encouragement to see how you as a supporter, TEN and our partners co-work for the Kingdom in the Balkans.
Photo: Second-hand clothes shop in Pristina helping to sustain Mercy Ministries
5
s t e p p i n S TEN
Project Romanian Rescue (PRR) Marian Serban God has blessed us this year, against all adversity. We are grateful to our Lord God for all His faithfulness. Despite the restrictions imposed by COVID, PRR was able to organise all sorts of activities, almost like in the good times, before the virus hit. During the summer holidays, the children in our care were able to visit the Aquarium, Dolphinarium, animal reservation, gondola in Constanța city, Dino Park in Neptun resort, Aquapark and circus in Eforie Nord resort. They also had a tour of Mamaia resort on the double decker bus, excursion to Medgidia town, a visit in Siminoc village, a train journey to Mangalia town where we visited a stud horse farm. Two of these outings were sponsored by two friends of our project. We are grateful to you for praying for us and encouraging our efforts for His Kingdom.
Adding Life to Every Day Emanuel Hospice, Romania At Emanuel Hospice we cannot add days to the lives of our patients, but we can add life to days! Under this programme, thirty children who are diagnosed, or have a family member diagnosed with a serious incurable disease, benefit from personal interventions to improve their quality of life. Kevin, aged ten, is a hospice patient diagnosed with bone cancer. His father died suddenly last year because of heart disease. He takes part in the programme both as a patient and as a bereaved child. He is pictured with Estera, the social worker who leads the project.
6
TEN’s new Partner Advisory Group After a year of planning, on 4th November we held our first Partner Advisory Group. Partners attended from Croatia, Serbia, Albania, Romania, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, representing different churches and ministries. We invited them to speak into our strategic intention to connect with
more partners over the next few years. It was encouraging to hear their ideas and how they will be able to help us significantly in doing so. We are committed to hearing the partner voice as much as possible as we move forward. Please pray for this group that God will work through it to help TEN play its part in God’s Kingdom plans.
ISTL Graduation, Albania In October we celebrated the graduation of 30 students. It was thrilling because last year we didn’t celebrate any graduation since the covid-related rules didn’t allow it. We had missed the feeling of sending ministers to the field, spiritually and theologically matured. The most thrilling moment was the one when some of the students were sharing their testimonies of how ISTL has helped them and their ministry to grow
spiritually. For many of them, even their way of thinking had changed during their time at ISTL, indeed the perspectives that teachers bring to some classes throughout the years challenge their ways of thinking. One of the students, Erion Xhaibra, couldn’t keep his tears from falling while testifying how great God had been during the time he attended ISTL—and we are sure God will continue to show His goodness to him.
7
English Camp for Kids Banja Luka Christian Fellowship Church, Bosnia & Herzegovina During the summer, we had a team of four volunteers join us from the US. While they were here in Banja Luka, one of the things that they did was to run a wonderful English Camp. They used a method where they taught completely in English (with a smattering of translation here and there). It is amazing how much English the kids picked up during the week of the camp. Each day built on the other, and at the end of the programme the children knew how to introduce themselves, count, identify colours and recognise different animals, and most importantly the names of all the snacks that they had during the week. To get the snack, the children
had to ask for it in English—from healthy snacks such as apples and carrots to biscuits and chocolate, they learnt those words pretty quickly! The children came both from our sponsorship project and from the children’s home. We got to spend time with some of the kids that we haven't been able to see much of because of Coronavirus.
A remarkable answer to prayer Rock of Ages, Romania Rock of Ages ministry in Romania reached out to help a former inmate build a new house for his destitute family living in a shelter of plastic and cardboard. Having spent what little he had to lay a foundation, the husband felt he had no option but to travel abroad to seek employment. In a dramatic answer to prayer, and with perfect timing, God miraculously provided all the resources and people required to help build and furnish their new home.
8
Renewal Conference Centre Sofia Baptist Church, Bulgaria The Covid pandemic has impacted the business tenants who rent space in the centre and several of them have been forced to vacate. Also the number of conferences hosted in the past 12 months has been very small with no prospect of bookings yet for 2022. The church was able to hold a national family camp bringing churches and families together, including non-Christian spouses. Young people and teenagers welcomed the opportunity to develop their relationships within a Christian context. Please pray for Tedi and Didi and their team as they lead the church and oversee the conference centre. There are hopes of developing music and media ministry and training up of new leaders. Bulgarian Partners Trustees are seeking one or more new trustees of mid-career age or younger to join the board. Email Geoff Wallis, jandgwallis@gmail.com
Jovica Bacvanski Montenegro After being in Montenegro for 22 years, most of those years the church was almost invisible to our country. However, after 33 years and much praying, the government of Montenegro finally changed. A new political grouping came to power. Finally the government recognises both large and small churches. They invited representatives from the six registered evangelical churches of Montenegro and several other faith communities. For the first time in the history of this country our voice was heard. They offered to help us with some finances in the future and possibly with the pension for the church leaders. We now have the responsibility to be the prophetic voice to them, to bless them and to influence them the way the Lord will show us. Please pray for better and continuous contact between us. 9
Building for the Kingdom Increasingly, TEN is engaged in supporting partners in obtaining and developing buildings for their church to gather. In Brijanje, Serbia, we have worked with Pastor Danijel to establish a church plant. It has faced local opposition from the Orthodox Church but praise God that they are now able to gather in their new building. In Struga, North Macedonia, TEN in partnership with International Cooperating Ministries, has helped the Evangelical Church complete the payment for their building. This means that more of their locally raised funds can be used for frontline ministry. In Tinca, Romania, Pastor Gavril has been busy completing an extension to the church. They have seen so much growth that they have had to grow the building to fit everyone in! In Gotesti, Moldova, Pastor Ruslan Telpiz is doing some much needed work to renew the roof and insulate the walls of the church. All of which
will help maintain the building and keep it warm during the colder months. Most recently of all, TEN has had the opportunity to support Arben Bedulla in Albania to buy a bungalow that will become the home for a new church plant in the village of Zvezde. We praise God for the way he has brought together TEN, International Cooperating Ministries and the vision of our partners to see this happen. Behind each story is incredible commitment and sacrifice. Please pray that works will be completed, and for the Kingdom to grow in these towns and villages across Eastern Europe and the Balkans. To find out how you can help, contact james.vaughton@ten-uk.org. Left: Evangelical Church, Struga, North Macedonia Right: Extended church building, Tinca, Romania
10
Granny Slobodanka by Antonija, homeless ministry team in Novi Sad, Serbia
Granny Slobodanka, for whom we have been providing care, has recently passed away. It is almost a year ago since Branko found this dear lady living in horrible conditions. Her home was an abandoned house without electricity or heating. She had no food, no warm clothes and was unwell with diabetes. We wrote a post on our social media about this elderly lady and many people responded. It was an incredible month when I personally was convinced that there are still so many empathetic, good, caring, loving people who were willing to help. Within a few days we gathered enough money for several months’ rent and found a suitable place for Slobodanka to stay. It completely changed her life. Granny Slobodanka was a goodnatured woman with great sense of humour and always laughing. We always brought her breakfast and gave her something sweet. She was as happy as a child. However, early one morning when I went in with her breakfast, I saw her crying. She suffered deeply for her family which had abandoned her. Another team member, Georgina would come every Saturday and spend time with Slobodanka, give her a bath and then they would talk and pray for hours. That was very important to Slobodanka. As time went by and as a result of her illness, she would lose track of time and become forgetful, even of us. Dementia began to take its toll.
Eventually, Slobodanka was placed by social workers into a residential care facility. She lasted just two more months. Her heart stopped and she slipped into eternity. We are comforted by the thought we did all we could and will always cherish the beautiful memories of time spent with our dear Granny Slobodanka. Please pray for the homeless ministry team in Novi Sad, Serbia. 11
Prayer Focus: Bosnia & Herzegovina (BiH) In 1992, Bosnia and Herzegovina declared independence following the breakup of Yugoslavia. Three and a half years of war followed soon after, as the three main ethnic groups— Croats, Serbs and Bosniaks—fought each other. On 14th December 1995, the Dayton Peace agreement brought an end to the bloodshed. But as with all wars, scars were left, some physical, some emotional and they are still felt today. We can only imagine what these people have been through. Today, the peace agreement is under real threat. BiH is a country with a complex political structure. All three ethnic groups have leaders who shape the country’s politics. Each group has become increasingly more concerned with the advancement of their own group, rather than that of the country as a whole, and the fear of another war has become very real. Tensions are at their highest peak since peace was declared. To make matters worse, BiH is experiencing high levels of Covid-19. The economy is suffering due to the pandemic but also because there is a trend for people of working age to migrate abroad to seek better opportunities. This in turn, has directly impacted the church. Despite the best efforts of faithful Christians to share the gospel, church leaders are seeing little growth. Pastor Dragan Nedic of Sarajevo Evangelical Church writes, “Our churches are in most of the cases smaller than twenty years ago.”
Please pray for: » The political situation and that all the people of BiH would remember that peace is far better than war. » Covid-19 cases to decrease, for the virus to stop spreading, for those infected to be healed and for support for the struggling healthcare system. » The economy. » Our partners, Sinisa Stojkovic and Ljiljana Banicek in Banja Luka; Slavko Hadzic, Dragan Nedic and Tomislav Dobutovic in Sarajevo and Dario Kapin in Zenica and Derventa. » Spiritual revival and for Christian leaders to be equipped and encouraged as they see lives transformed by the gospel of Christ— the gospel of peace. Article written by Naomi Greenwood, TEN 12
ry C
HEART Prayer requests from across Europe January – March 2022
ten-uk.org/pray
— JANUARY 2022 — SERGHEI MIHAILOV MOLDOVA 1 Please pray for the speedy recovery of health for two members of our Beginning of Life team following recent operations. 2 Praise God for the 90 teens from neighbourhoods who are coming every Sunday to the outreach club, that we call Urban Teens. The teens get help with homework and meet with a leader for Bible study.
DUSAN & MIRJANA BEREDI SERBIA
11 Pray that Emanuel Hospice team will be able to accomplish their mission of providing in the spirit of Christian love and compassion a better quality of life to their patients. 12 Pray for Cristi, nurse Dana’s husband, diagnosed with advanced cancer, he started chemotherapy in November after having surgery in Bucharest.
SLAVKO & SANJA HADZIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 13 Pray for the training of preachers which Slavko is facilitating in the local church in Zenica city and for students of the theological seminary in Croatia. 14 Pray for Slavko as he plans to speak at two international Mission Weeks (evangelistic events for students at universities). Pray that Covid restrictions will not prevent these events.
3 We are organising a youth conference this week for young people from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia. This is the first time we have done something like that. Pray for guidance and blessing.
NESA & VESNA RADEKA SERBIA
4 This month the Royal Rangers ministry (Christian scouts) from our church will have winter camps for children and teenagers. Pray for blessings over these events.
15 Please pray for Serbia, for Christians, and churches to stand for the protection of unborn babies.
MARINELA ROTARIU ROMANIA
16 Pray for the encouragement of pastors and leadership of different evangelical churches to organise the Sanctity of Human Life Day in their churches. (From 16th to 23rd of January 2022.)
5 Pray for the new employed clinical team who care for hospice patients (adults and children) in disadvantaged rural communities. 6 Pray for nurses Ramona and Alexandra who will start their training to specialise in palliative care.
ALEX & MILENA VALKANOVI BULGARIA
7 Pray for Titus who starts a part-time job as a fundraising manager.
17 Please pray that we would find a suitable construction company to repair the roof of the church building.
8 Please pray for Dan who starts his part-time job at the hospice as an administrative manager.
18 We value your prayers as we plant a new church in the city of Vetren.
9 Pray that Emanuel Hospice will obtain the building authorisation before the start of February.
19 Pray that God would move powerfully among the young people in our region and across the country.
10 Pray that it will be possible for Emanuel Hospice to recommence the building works at the new Centre this Spring.
MARIAN & IONICA ŞERBAN ROMANIA 20 Join us in prayer for spiritual victory in our work with the children at Project Romanian Rescue and the families we assist. 21 Pray that God would help us to be good stewards of the material and financial resources of our work at PRR. 22 We are planning for PRR’s 25th anniversary later in the year. Pray for God to guide us in all the preparation. 23 We have a constant need for funds to maintain our care of the children. Thank God for every person and agency that gives to PRR.
ROUMEN & MARIANA IVANOV MISSION POSSIBLE BULGARIA 24 Pray with us this month as Mission Possible Bulgaria commences a new literacy project for Roma children aged 7–12 years who have remained illiterate due to the constraints of the pandemic. 25 Please pray for the volunteer teachers as they are trained to support the R literacy project. 26 Please support our work with mothers who receive boxes of clothes for their newborn children as part of our efforts to encourage them to take care of their children. 27 Because of our different projects, the Mission Possible team often travels to various churches in the country, meeting with large groups of children and adults to distribute food, clothing and provide education. Please pray to God for their spiritual and physical protection.
DANIEL & IRINKA STRACINSKI MONTENEGRO 28 Please pray for our church team as we take part in street evangelism in the city of Bar. 29 As we deliver food boxes to poor families, please pray that God’s spirit will touch people’s lives.
30 We plan to host more special events for couples to promote the Biblical values of love and marriage. Pray for God’s blessing on all who take part. 31 We hope to resource a new project to record an audio version of the New Testament in Montenegrin aimed at young people who never read books.
— FEBRUARY 2022 — 1 The economy offers very few regular job opportunities. Please pray for us as we explore the possibility of starting new, small businesses. 2 Your prayers would be appreciated for my widowed mother in Serbia who lives alone and has health issues. 3 Please pray for our travels as a family with a young child as we visit my mother in Serbia during the winter months.
MIRCEA & RONELA CRISTIAN ROMANIA 4 At Rock of Ages we urgently need to hold a national conference for all our coordinators due to the problems of travelling and meeting others during the pandemic restrictions. Please pray that the conference will take place soon and be well-supported financially. 5 Pray that prisoners taking part in the correspondence programmes will come to faith. 6 The coronavirus continues to impact Romania. Please pray for the protection of all our team and their families. 7 We rejoice to see the many new opportunities that God is opening up for Rock of Ages. We thank God for his divine provision to meet the increased costs of the ministry.
ICO & JAGODA MATULIĆ CROATIA 8 The youth winter camp, Jesus' scouts will take place in Gorski Kotar region. Pray for the team, the response of the youth, the funds to cover the expenses. 9 Please keep praying that the home-based prayer group in the town of Korcula will grow as new people show interest and respond to the Gospel. 10 Pray for the Teen Challenge Croatia ministry to progress. We have an opened a coffee house in the city of Split. 11 Pray for the team that takes food every Saturday night to the homeless on the streets of Split. 12 Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit upon the whole team and the director of Teen Challenge Croatia, Pastor Ico Matulić. 13 We have planted a new church in Orebić. Please pray for the Coneys, a married couple from our church, who live and serve there. 14 We arrange mission trips to the island of Lastovo. Two members of our church go there regularly. Pray that God will open the door for them to witness and share the Gospel.
19 Pray for Rainbow Rehab Centre. For the guys in rehabilitation, the leaders of the centre, our funding and business. Hundreds of boys and girls die from heroin in Serbia. May God guide us to help as many of them as possible. 20 Pray for the online ministry of the church in Novi Sad. We have developed several programmes and more people from the church are following it. Pray that we will be efficient in our work.
NESA & VESNA RADEKA SERBIA 21 Please pray that our clients at the Pregnancy Care Centre facing unplanned pregnancies will have hearts open to hear the gospel message. 22 Pray for the women in our NEST Maternity home and those who have faced abortion as they share together during the transformative Bible studies. 23 Please pray for the significant match-funds needed to build the much larger NEST Maternity Home. 24 Praise the Lord for two new pregnant women that have entered our NEST Maternity Home.
15 Pray that God would provide a more permanent and sustainable place for the church to meet. Currently we hire a hotel room.
25 Praise the Lord for all the brave women who chose life for their baby in very difficult situations.
16 Give thanks for the safe arrival of baby Zorana, she is such a blessing in the church. May the Lord establish her ways.
26 Please pray for God's power, His guidance, His wisdom and courage for every decision taken by the team and for protection over their families, marriages, and for the different health issues.
DUSAN & MIRJANA BEREDI SERBIA 17 Pray for Living free, our new programme starting this month in Novi Sad. It’s aimed at helping people with life-controlling problems. It will serve both believers and unbelievers and be based on the Gospel. 18 Pray for the ministry of working with the homeless. Winter is always a critical time for them (some of them have already died from the cold). Pray for protection and wisdom on how to help them.
ROBERT & KRASI SALAMANOV NORTH MACEDONIA 27 Pray that more miners in the city of Radovis will be reached with the Gospel and set free from addiction to drugs and alcohol. 28 We thank God that in our first year of the church plant new people are joining with us and lives are being changed.
— MARCH 2022 — 1 Please pray for the teenage girls who enjoy coming along to the weekly creative workshop. May they be drawn closer to God. 2 Pray that the married couples who come to church will be greatly strengthened in their faith and their relationships. 3 Please pray that Pastor Robert will know much wisdom from God as he counsels individuals and leads the church. 4 New missionaries have recently arrived in Radovis. Pray that we will be able to work together under God’s guidance.
SERGHEI MIHAILOV MOLDOVA 5 We are very encouraged by the positive results from the Early Child Development programme run by Beginning of Life. Levels of anger and aggression dropped and children are learning new ways to interact. Thank God for His blessing.
EDJOLA DALAÇI ALBANIA 11 Pray that God guides us to do what is in His will and to open new doors for Mission Possible Albania to move forward and be a lamp to shine His Light in Bathore and beyond. 12 Pray for a new fruitful season in the Community Library of Bathore; more readers to participate in literary competitions and attend books clubs. 13 Pray for fundraising for the Project Miracle Club Football Team.
VJEKO & JOSIPA MRSIC CROATIA 14 Please pray that all those who attend the Alpha course that starts this week, will come to faith and see their lives changed.
JOVICA & SAVKA BACVANSKI MONTENEGRO
6 As people adjust their lives in the wake of COVID, there are many who desire to change their life and to find new hope. Pray that they find God, their Creator and Heavenly Father.
15 Please pray for my recently widowed father who lives alone in Serbia aged 85 years and needs daily support.
7 Ninety teens from local neighbourhoods are coming every Sunday to the outreach club, Urban Teens. Please pray for the seed of the Gospel planted in these young lives.
16 Praise God for the 10 families identified by state officials to whom we delivered food parcels—thanks to TEN supporters.
8 Thank God for the group of leaders and practitioners from Moldova and Bulgaria who completed online training within BOL in counselling and art therapy for traumatised children and adults.
17 It’s a miracle. After three decades the government of Montenegro has finally recognised the alliance of Evangelical Churches in Montenegro and offered some support. This approval will help address issues of unhelpful perceptions by the wider public.
9 Please pray for the 80 single mothers and 100 children who decided to study at the School of Parents last year. Training will be held this year for mothers with their children together, where they will learn to accept, influence and develop in relationships.
18 More good news. After almost a year’s absence, a former assistant leader of the church returned with true repentance and tears like a prodigal son. Please pray that God would strengthen him and prepare him for future service.
10 Pray for teachers at state schools attending seminars where we will share new materials, build team relationships and bring Christian values to the national education system.
VANCE & TANJA GOLOMEOV SERBIA 19 Please pray for Vance and his wife Tanja as they settle into their new home in Serbia, after serving for many years in North Macedonia. 20 The Evangelical Church in Pozarevac is committed to completing a new building. Please pray for God’s provision for this major project. 21 Vance has a great vision for the church in Pozarevac, to establish small groups, raise up leaders and plant new churches in the coming months and years. Pray that he will know God’s wisdom and timing.
28 We love to share the Gospel as we deliver food parcels to the homes of poor families. Pray that these dear people will turn to Jesus for new life. 29 Please pray for Kalina and her children, Jana and Bojan who are attending the church in Resen. 30 Electricity prices have risen greatly and become a burden for many families. Please pray that the crisis will be resolved and prices return to normal. 31 Sadly, there is corruption in much of the government. Please pray that those responsible for this problem are exposed and that righteous leaders will be promoted.
22 Please pray for the Bible school and students in our church. We are now in our second year, 10 students have graduated. There are currently six in training.
TEFIK & ANITA MUSOSKI NORTH MACEDONIA 23 Pray for the 15 people who attend Gideon, the weekly deaf club in Prilep. May God open hearts as they share Bible stories together. 24 The deaf club needs more space. Please pray that God will provide a more suitable room for this growing ministry supported by a small team of volunteers. 25 Our daughter Shimka is expecting her first child in April. Pray for a normal delivery and healthy mother and baby.
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:14-15
DRAGAN & BILJANA MANEV NORTH MACEDONIA 26 Pray for our evangelistic events as we establish contact with local people. 27 Please pray for all those who visit our coffee house. It is a great opportunity to befriend people and share the Gospel.
As it is the business of tailors to mend clothes and cobblers to make shoes, so it is the business of Christians to pray. Martin Luther
GIVE TO TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK !
1. SINGLE DONATION I would like to give £ Please charge my: Visa
(total amount). Please acknowledge my donation: Mastercard
CAF Charity Card
I enclose a cheque made payable to TEN Card number: Security code:
Expiry date:
(Last three digits on back of card)
Signature:
/
Name on card:
2. REGULAR DONATION Instruction to your bank or building society to make standing order payments to TEN. Name and address of your Bank or Building Society: Bank/Building Society: Branch address: Postcode: Account number:
Sort code:
Please pay to: Lloyds, Regent Street, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 2HT to the credit of Eurovangelism, account number: 38611760, sort code: 30-94-80, the sum of: £
First payment date: D
D / M
M / Y
and on the same day of each successive Signature:
3.
Y
Y
Y
(month/quarter/year) until otherwise advised. Full name:
Date:
MAKE YOUR GIFT WORTH 25% MORE!
If you are a UK taxpayer please complete this Gift Aid declaration which will enable us to claim tax back on your gift, making it worth 25% more. I am a UK taxpayer and want TEN (registered name Eurovangelism) to reclaim tax on all my donations until further notice. I understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay the difference. Please notify us if you: want to cancel this declaration; change your name or home address; no longer pay sufficient tax on your income and/or capital gains. Title:
Full name:
Address: Postcode:
Date:
Please tick if you want tax to be reclaimed only on this single donation.
Please complete and return this form to: 19 Transform Europe Network, 23 Apex Court, Woodlands, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4JT
Engaging young people in mission TEN’s pilot course, For the Nations, introduces God’s plan for the world, as seen through both the Old and New Testament. We plan to publish the resource this spring. Meeting a group of young Christians over Zoom is not easy, especially when they live in Eastern Europe. This is part of the six-week study sessions that we think will be key to bringing to life God’s plan for the world as new connections are made. We hope this will help open the door for people of all ages to visit partners and develop new connections in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Matt, a church youth worker from Derby, who was part of the pilot course, reported “…the past two weeks have been the most
enthusiastic that I’ve seen my church group in a while…” Matt and his youth group are now exploring the possibility of a team visit in 2022, Covid-19 permitting.
TEN continue s to work on plan s to engage a new generation in mission. If yo ur church you th group is intere sted in taking part, please co ntact: melanie.griffi ths@ten-uk.o rg
Young people leading at Impact Kosovo event 20
University mission outreach Part of our plan is to engage younger people in mission and with the work of our partners in Europe. One way we’ve been engaging with young people is through University Christian Union mission evenings, run by the South West Agencies Network (SWAN). Each year TEN, along with a number of other agencies, is invited by SWAN to attend CU mission evenings at different universities in the South West. On 2nd November, TEN Ambassador David Pryke attended the Exeter University a CU mission evening at Belmont Chapel. On the 4th November, Melanie attended the event at Cardiff University.
It is always wonderful to see the heart these young people have for mission. We were delighted that eight students signed up to receive more information about TEN. Some of the students are interested in being part of a future, short-term mission team. Others will consider joining our TENteach team to teach online English to people in Eastern Europe.
Sue Foster – In Memoriam We are sorry to inform you that Sue Foster, wife of TEN's founder, Dave Foster passed away on 9th November. We at TEN recognise the vital part she played in the establishing of Eurovangelism, now Transform Europe Network. We are deeply grateful for her years of support for Dave in his ministry to encourage leaders and to spread the gospel behind the Iron Curtain as he criss-crossed the continent from the 60s to the early 90s.
21
1936–2021
s t e p p i n S TEN
Mission Possible Bulgaria celebrates 30 years Thirty years filled with perfect gifts, blessings and mercy from our Lord Jesus Christ. Thirty years together with friends and co-workers in the faith!
New TEN Trustee We are pleased to welcome Nicoleta Mezei, recently appointed as a TEN Trustee. “I was born in Romania but moved to the UK in 2008 to study, and then to plant a church as God called me and my husband to Birmingham. I went on to work for the mission agency Global Connection for four years which grew my passion for mission. “I felt drawn to TEN and its mission to sacrificially support the European church family in need, as they seek to sustainably serve their communities. I pray that my heritage and knowledge of a different culture will benefit TEN as we seek together to help spread the gospel in Europe.”
For thirty years we have been supporting the churches in their ministry to individuals and society through training, publishing and practical evangelism. For three decades our dreams have been coming true – we’ve seen children fed and dressed. Baby boxes have been given to expectant mums in difficult situations. Suffering women have been healed and restored through our Touch the Hem of His Garment programme. Sunday School teachers have been trained and many leaders have attended our Bible conferences. The Living Word project has promoted the New Revised Edition of the Bible. It's been a long journey from a human perspective and yet short from the view of eternity. All the glory and honour to our perfect, holy and gracious God.
22
Humanitarian aid to the poor and sick in Derventa Dario Kapin, Bosnia and Herzegovina Thanks to the generous support of TEN, we have been able to deliver food parcels to around 30 poor individuals and families in the city of Derventa. It was very encouraging to be joined by the city president as we distributed the parcels and witnessed to the families. After handing out seven of the ten parcels we brought on one of the days, we returned to the car park to discover four parcels in the president’s car! We recounted and there was still one extra parcel.
I shared with the president about how things multiply with Jesus. His face suddenly changed. I believe that sooner or later he will give his life to Jesus.
Evangelical Church, North Macedonia Despite the pandemic and widespread sickness, churches across Macedonia are discovering creative ways to share the Gospel and there are encouraging signs of growth. Alpha courses continue to run with plans to launch groups in more towns. After just a few months, the new church plant in Radovis, led by Robert and Krasi Salamanovi is already running regular Sunday services, children’s groups, gatherings for women and
humanitarian work. Young people in the capital, Skopje are pioneering Soulcraft to develop relationships among teenagers.
23
A letter of gratitude from the mother of an addicted man (Sent to the Rainbow Rehab Centre, Novi Sad, Serbia)
In December 2019 we finally realised we had no control whatsoever over the future. Like fallen leaves carried by the breeze, our winds were fear, uncertainty and hopelessness, with no secure place to rest. Our whole family needed stability and healing; especially for Nikola our youngest son. A twist that would bring us a miracle. Is there such a thing anywhere? We were completely broken and defeated, in search for a cure. Addiction is difficult to accept and to look in the eyes. It struck where it hurts the most, where one is most sensitive. It destroys families and the most valuable things in life. We were tearing out our souls, struggling and crying for help to be able to deal with it all.
24
By chance, I discovered the Rainbow Rehabilitation Centre. Rehab, is this what we needed? How will it look? We had no idea. But we hoped that somehow everything would change. I thought, God, how will this be? But that was the answer itself. Stepping into the unknown, we took the invitation given by God, our Father. Then my son and I met people who accepted us so easily; totally understanding our problem and selflessly giving help. We started discovering a brand new world, unknown and vague to us. Thanks to the rehab centre and Protestant Christian Fellowship, we have learned so much. We learnt that by knowing Christ and inviting him into our lives, we become God’s children. We learnt that the depth of his love heals all wounds and gives strength for new beginnings. In our hearts we have discovered the saving love of Christ that changes everything and gives new life and healing for every single member of the family. Next to love, our hearts were flooded with sincere gratitude for fellowship where our child is fully accepted by all. We are grateful to everybody who contributed and helped us to become gentler during our most difficult moments. It meant even more to Nikola. We are grateful to Pastor Bera, who by his love to Jesus, selflessly gives an example of how to live what you believe. Thank you for all the patience and persistence and for your special gift of making God’s Word close to our hearts and understandable. The Word comes like a balm to wounded hearts. You teach us how to trust in God and to grow in faith.
Thank you for your prayerful support for Nikola, who now shines as a newborn man. Thanks to everyone in the church who greeted us with smiles, full of understanding and support, with unspoken compassion that caressed the soul, that fills the air like sweet aroma. It was indescribable and crucial to feel like part of a community, to belong there. When in our walk faced with difficulties or hard times, we would go to Saša. He has been a bond between us and what our son was going through. We would often thank him, but he wouldn’t take any praise or personal credit. We now realise that all the credit and all the praise and glory belongs to the Leader of the Rehab team and leaders. Jesus Christ who died on the cross and paid the penalty for our sins, redeemed us and wrote our names in the Book of Life. He suffered so we wouldn’t. We see our son glowing like a star. Psalm 103:1–2 says ‘Praise the Lord, O my soul. All my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul and forget not all his benefits’. Praise, glory and honour be to God, our Father and Lord Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit who loves us with unchanging love, now and always, in all days, until the end of the earth. Grateful parents.”
25
TENteach Update You may have previously read about the TENteach project (TEN teaching English and Christianity). After several months of planning, a three-lesson trial of online lessons took place in the autumn, involving four churches from Moldova and North Macedonia. The lessons taught aspects of English grammar, whilst also giving the students the opportunity to read passages of Scripture in English, and then practice their speaking and listening skills by discussing the passage, answering questions, and doing other exercises. Following the trial, very encouraging feedback was received from the pastors of each church, as well as from the participating students. The pastors thought the project would help them in their outreach. Pastor Slavic from Moldova commented, “These lessons are a great opportunity to reach more people and to tell them about Jesus”. The majority of students confirmed that if classes took place next year, they would want to join them. Thankfully, the four volunteer teachers from TEN (David Pryke, Graham Owen, Mary Cottrell and Sue Watterson) all felt they would be prepared to commit to the project. Consequently, we have agreed to provide a course of lessons starting in the new year. The next stage will be to consider if there are other churches with links to TEN, that may like to join
Dragan and Biljana Manev (Veles Evangelical Church, North Macedonia) took part in the pilot
the project. Also, if interest grows, we will need more volunteer teachers to provide additional classes. So, if you have a few hours a week to spare, and would like to consider joining the team, teaching English and the Christian message online from your own homes, then please contact us to chat more about what’s involved. Thanks, Nick Clarke, TENteach team Email: nick.clarke@ten-uk.org
26
Via Egnatia Fundraising at TEN has reached a new milestone. The challenge to walk up to 300 miles has raised almost £9,000! Inspired by the ancient Roman route from Albania to Greece—the Via Egnatia—twelve supporters, volunteers and staff members completed the virtual walk. A further 21 participants took part in a bike ride in Scotland, a youth group walk in Wiltshire and a group hike in Essex.
WinterHelp The 2020/21 WinterHelp campaign raised £25,747 for which we thank God.
Fascinating facts:
Twenty-one grants were sent out to partners in the following countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Kosovo, Moldova, North Macedonia, Romania and Serbia. By reallocating some funds from Essential Gifts, such as Winter Bundle, Firewood, etc. to WinterHelp, TEN was able to fully fund nine projects and part fund 12 more projects. Grants ranged from 250 euros to 2,000 euros depending on the size of the project being run by the partner.
Total distance walked, jogged or cycled: 3270 milesff Total number of steps: .6 5 million
The online platform that TEN used to promote the challenge proved to be extremely popular and for the most part easy to use. If you have any fundraising ideas for 2022, contact: melanie.griffiths@tenuk.org. We aim to raise more funds for Harvest for the Hungry in its 30th year of feeding the poor.
27
Freezing temperatures and little or no state help will leave thousands of families struggling for food and warmth this winter. You can help. Donations to TEN’s WinterHelp appeal enable our partners to buy food, clothing, logs, and other provisions much more cheaply than it would be to source and send supplies from the UK.
Visit ten-uk.org/winterhelp to make a donation. Essential Gifts can be purchased to help support those living in extreme poverty. Gifts that our partners in Europe have requested for this winter include: » A new blanket (£12) » A woolly hat, gloves and scarf (£15) » A month of hot meals at a soup kitchen (£22) » A winter coat (£25) » A month’s supply of logs (£40) » A winter bundle (£70)
Visit ten-uk.org/essentialgifts to purchase a gift.
