Home from Moldova ...
 Marius and Tabita recently completed an outreach trip
to Moldova. Located between Romania and
Ukraine, Moldova emerged as an independent republic following the collapse of
the USSR in 1991. Two-thirds of Moldovans are of Romanian descent, the
languages are virtually identical and the two countries share a common cultural
heritage. They had a wonderful time ministering and encouraging many
people. There were many first time commitments and re-dedications to the
Lord. They so appreciate your prayers and support. Read more about them ...
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Village of Cioburciu ...
Tabita teaching children. | Pastor Alexi Dobanda's Church is one of the largest
village churches in the Republic of Moldova. Marius and Tabita held
several meetings at this church sharing with songs and the word. Tabita
had opportunity to work with about 80 children, for some, their first time in
church. Many were moved to tears of repentance and received the
Lord. The leadership was very impressed with her ministry and she was
able to train the Sunday school teachers.
See more pictures ... |
Pastors' Conference ...
Marius and Pastors. | Pastor Marius and Tabita had
the privilege of holding a Crusade and Pastors' conference at a new church
plant in the village of Carnatani Noi. There were 2 first time
commitments and many prayer requests during the crusade. The thirty-five
Pastors at the conference were very pleased and greatly encouraged to receive
training and opportunity to dialogue about their ministry. These Pastors
work with very poor people in challenging conditions. Their ministry is
one of sacrifice so they are greatly encouraged when someone comes along side
in prayer, finances and spiritual support. See more pictures ...
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Cemetery in town of Causani, Moldova ...
Tables in cemetery to prepare food for the dead. | There are many customs associated with the ancient pagan
belief that the souls of the dead would return for a meal with the
family. People go to cemeteries to communicate with the souls of the
dead, and build private altars that contain favorite foods and beverages, as
well as photos and memorabilia of the departed. The intent is to encourage
visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments
of the living directed to them. Pagan beliefs and practices are one of the
challenges in Romania that a Christian Pastor faces ministering the truth found
only in Jesus Christ.
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Castles of Romania ...
 Romania's collection of castles and fortresses perhaps
best illustrates the rich medieval heritage of the country. While castles built
from the 14th to the 18th centuries are strong and austere fortresses built
mainly for defense against invaders, those erected beginning in the late 1800s
are imposing and luxurious. On the way back
home Marius, Tabita and Paulina, who was traveling with them, visited some of
these castles. See pictures ...
Marius would love to have
some of you go over to Romania on a short term mission trip. You would work with Tabita Ministries and
have opportunity to see some of the history of Romania. Read about mission trip opportunity ...
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Car Crash ...
Working on car to continue journey home. | On the return home, in the middle of Romania, Marius and Tabita's car was rear-ended. Thankfully no one was injured but it caused considerable delay and extra expense. When embarking on a mission or outreach you can be sure you are treading on enemy territory: but what the enemy means for harm, God will use for good. This little incident simply strengthened Marius and Tabita's resolve that they are on the right spiritual track. Please pray for their safety as they travel many miles each year in conditions that are far from favorable.
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