Fall 2023

Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled....Jesus wept. (John 11:32-33, 35)

The past month has been a reminder to us again of the frailty of life. We know that death is a certainty for all of us, unless the Lord returns before we die, but it is still a shock when we learn of the passing of a close friend, family member, or popular personality. Jesus experienced death on every level, and He was moved by those around Him who were broken with sorrow. God knows when we are hurting, and He provides comfort to us right when we need it. Seek the Lord's presence in your sorrow, and He will help you bear the pain of loss.

Back-to-School Festival
Our annual Back-to-School Festival has grown in size and popularity in the community each year as we use the day to promote school and education, as well as to welcome those who do not ordinarily attend church. Ruth carefully organized supplies donated from the U.S., purchased other items, and assembled them into packets specific to each child and grade. Over 70 packets were distributed. We did experience a first this year as a heavy storm rolled in less than two hours before we were scheduled to begin. Although most of the outdoor stations were set up, we made the difficult decision to postpone the event, since it would have been much too wet and muddy. Although we were disappointed at the time, the Lord blessed us with a beautiful day the following Sunday for the festival. We had much help from fellow believers in the area, which made coordinating all the stations and events much more manageable. We are especially grateful for the churches and individuals who donated supplies and finances to make the event extra special!

Paver Project Update

Since our last furlough, we have been talking about our desire to add concrete pavers to the church parking lot. We had intended to begin the work over a year ago, but the company did not fulfill its contract obligations. We began legal action in May, and we are praying for a positive decision on November 22. In the meantime, Dave contracted with another company, and work was scheduled to begin in early October, only to learn that that company was no longer able to do the job. God knows all about this, and we are optimistic that a third firm will be able to start work during the second week of November. We would really like to have it finished before the holiday season.

New Modular Container Arrives
We have shared previously about the school readiness program that Ruth has begun, and she continues to see steady progress in these young lives as she teaches them, usually two days a week. PRecently, we were able to add a modular container to the church property, which will become the new home for the school readiness program and Ruth's Sunday School class, in addition to other children's activities. We are in the process of outfitting it for this purpose, and Ruth anticipates moving in completely in November. Electricity has been run, and water will be connected soon. This move will free up space in the church building for a dedicated kitchen.

Thankful that we serve a God of mercy and comfort in loss!

Dave, Ruth, Celeste, and Amber

Family News

We celebrated our 30th anniversary on September 25! The Lord has blessed us in so many ways these past 30 years, 14 of which have been in Romania! Amber is back at Miami University for her 3rd year, and she is already planning a study abroad semester in Japan next fall. Earlier this semester, she received an academic scholarship from the International Studies department, which is one of her two majors. More recently she has been considering adding a third degree in Hospitality Management. Ben is off to a strong start in veterinary school, while Celeste is staying busy working as a dog groomer and showing her Toy Manchester Terrier, Rupert, who recently won his championship!