Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians from prison. Joy fills every page of it. This summer we shared that same joy — without the chains.

There is a special joy in seeing the work continue while you are somewhere else. God is leading many volunteers to teach children in places we cannot visit ourselves.

Around Sixty Towns and Villages

For part of the summer we were away. We were at camps, and we visited our colleagues in Moldova. The ministry at home continued without us. Faithful believers carried it forward.

By the end of the summer, week-long Bible clubs had taken place in around sixty towns and villages in our region of Romania. Many children heard the good news of the gospel. Many adults heard it too.

Local Authorities Are More Open

We are seeing more openness from local authorities than before. They are allowing us to organise these evangelistic events. One official from a city hall told us on the phone, “If it rains on any of the days, we have a hall right next to city hall that you can use.”

Please pray that more dedicated teachers will organise outdoor evangelistic events next year.

What the Children Said

During two weeks of camp, we saw how God works in the hearts of children and teenagers. Here is what they told us:

• “I learned how to cherish God more.”
• “I learned to run to God every day.”
• “I really liked the food at camp and the bed I slept in.”
• “I really liked that you gave prizes to every camp participant, even our team, which didn’t excel at anything in particular.”

Day Camps in Moldova

In Moldova, many children and teenagers came to the day camps to hear the gospel. One girl wrote to thank the team afterwards:

“I want to thank you for the camp you held at our church. This year it was very interesting and engaging. I really enjoyed the skits — they were very moving for me. The games at camp were wonderful, and the food was very tasty. The Bible verses taught me a lot. I know how hard everyone involved worked to make me and many other children happy. We look forward to seeing you again next year.”

Christ Was Preached

The reports from our colleagues in Romania and Moldova all say the same thing. Christ was preached this summer. Children heard the gospel. We praise God for this.

Paul rejoiced over a church he could not visit. This summer we understood his joy a little better.

-Testimony from a worker in CEF of Romania (Teo)

(Image:Adobe Express)