July 2011

Challenge Accepted

     Several dear friends have challenged me to be more regular and consistent in sending out my newsletters.  I accept that challenge, and I ask that any and all of you hold me to my stated intentions.

     I could, and have, given many reasons, or rationalizations, for my previous pattern.  I will not promise a certain regularity as to timing, but I do make a commitment to do better.  I do not do what I do to please men, but God's people deserve more and better information about what God is doing through us here in Lushnja, and in other places in Albania.  In truth, there is no excuse for not being more faithful in sharing with people who care about and/or are participating financially in this work of the Lord.

Coming Of Age

     Many, or even most, of you who read this newsletter are at least somewhat familiar with the history of the country, and of the Lord's church here. Albania (Shqipëri in their language - "land of the eagles") has had a long history of domination by others. Its location lent itself to some of the oppression, being situated as it is in the midst of one of the most troubled areas on the planet over the centuries.  This is not intended to be a history lesson, but one's heart has to go out to a people who have endured so much.

     The latest chapter in that story was the communist era, during which Albania was controlled by one of the most despotic of all the communist dictators.  That man, Enver Hoxha, led Albania to becoming the only officially identified "atheistic nation" in the world.  All of the oppression, and especially this last chapter, bred into the people, for the most part, a great hesitation in believing in anything that was beyond their own control.  So, for the almost nine years that I have been here, progress has been slow, and often illusory.  But I believe that throughout the churches in the land there is renewed hope and enthusiasm about the future.

     A group of brothers worked very hard to organize a meeting on the order of the lectureships held in the United States.  On April 21-23 we met at a resort hotel at the beach near Durrës.  The primary resource speaker was Edward Wharton, of the the Sunset International Biblical Institute, on the subject The New Testament Church.  Ed has written a book on the subject, which was interpreted by some of the Albanian brethren in preparation for the retreat.  This project, from translating to printing, was funded by Eastern European Missions, who are participating in other projects, as well. 

Brother Ed Wharton

Copies of brother Wharton's book, translated into Albanian, were given to all the conference participants, and were also distributed to all the churches for use in their local areas.  Other speakers for the conference included Dino Roussos, of Athens, Greece and John Massie, of San Antonio, Texas/  Several Albanian brethren, as well as myself, also participated.  Attendees from the Lushnja church were Harralamb Gjoka, Olti and Sojana Mezini, Era Met-Hoxha, Glenida Kajdo, Alma Kajdo, and myself.  Also in attendance were Avenir (Niri) and Lindita Pëllumbi, whom we are hoping and praying will be able to come and work with the church here.

Organizers and speakers at the churches of Christ retreat

     Now you see why I say there is a "coming of age" factor at work here.  It is hoped and prayed that we will be able to continue this activity every year.  Please continue to pray for the ongoing maturation of the church here in this land of lovely people.
     Prior to the retreat I chauffeured the foreign participants, plus Bledi Valca and Alfred Zike, to an ancient ruin to the south of us, Apoloni.  For Dino Roussos it was a particularly enjoyable event, as he is a tour guide to many such sites in Greece, as well as other places in this part of the world. 

Tom Bonner, Bledi Valca, Alfred Zike, Debby Roussos, John Massie, Dino Roussos, Ed Wharton

Keeping It Going

     As mentioned above I have now been working in Albania for almost nine years, but it doesn't seem like it.  Every day offers new challenges and blessing, and I thank God that he has chosen to use me here for the time I have been here.  I am thankful to those of you who have made it possible for me to be here, and see God at work, through your contributions and prayers over the years.  I have no plans for ending my part in the work here, so long as it is clear that God is still using me.

     My goal has been, from the start, to work myself out of a job.  There is still a lot of growth and maturing that needs to take place in the church here, but God is bringing about change.  One instrument of that change is the satellite school of Sunset International Bible Institute, known locally by the acronym I.B.I.A., directed by Steve Stamatis.  One of the young men whom God allowed me to teach and baptize here in Lushnja (Altin Koçi) eventually attended this school, and is now one of the preachers for the church in Fier, to the south of Lushnja.

    The young couple whom I mentioned above, Avenir and Lindita Pëllumbi, both university graduates, also both attended and graduated from I.B.I.A.  Currently they are both employed by the school, he as a translator (English to Albanian) and instructor in the Greek language, and she in a service-providing position.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Avenir & Lindita Pëllumbi

     They have been with us many times now in the church in Lushnja, and have agreed to come and work with us on a full-time basis.  We are prayerfully anticipating having them with us at the beginning of 2012.  We had originally targeted the beginning of 2011, then mid-2011, both of which have passed without us having been able to raise the needed funding.  Raising funds is not my favorite thing to do, but attempting to do it from afar, and at the wrong time of year for church budget planning, is very difficult and frustrating.

     So I come to you readers now asking you to put into your prayers a specific petition to the Father that he will lead us to the right places and people for securing the needed funding.  The needed amount is $1,000 per month.  Please talk to the Father on our behalves.  It is my firm conviction that the work here will be greatly enhanced by the addition of these two young faithful Christians to work with us.  I am scheduling my every-other-year visit to the States a month early this time, in November, in order to work on raising these funds.  It would make me a very happy guy if I didn't have to use all my time traveling from coast-to-coast trying to raise these funds.  So if God puts it on your heart to be involved in this work, please let me know as soon as possible so I can know how much scheduling I need to do to meet with people while in the States.  You can email me at tbonner@metrocofc.org.

Past Events

     Since it has been an extended period since my last newsletter, I will try to bring you current on events that have happened here.  As stated above I do accept the challenge to do better in communicating with all of you.

     At Christmastime we had fifty-three people present for our "family time", which included family members who are not active (yet) in involvement with the church.  Our young people, coordinated by Era Met-Hoxha, presented a program of great variety.  Everyone present enjoyed themselves, from the youngest to the oldest (that would be me).  We were able to provide gifts for the children, and many things to eat for everybody.

Our pint-sized Santa

Some of the older Christmas group                          

     On International Women's Day, March 8, I took a group of five ladies for a dinner at a hilltop restaurant to the south of Lushnja.  The group included Sadete Gjergji, Albana Çela, Silvana Eksarko, Meni Gjoni and Alma Kajdo  We have more women than that involved with the church, but the others were not able to share in this event.

Silvana Eksarko, Albana Çela, Sofika Gjoka

Alma Kajdo, Meni Gjoni, Sadete Gjergji 

     The annual youth day was hosted by the original Tirana congregation, and was attended by about 250 people, young and old alike.  The speaker for this day was Craig Young, a long-term missionary in Marseilles, France, and he did an excellent job.  An added serendipity was a musical presentation with which he, his wife, and his daughter regaled us.  I had heard them previously, at a retreat in Germany, and knew that they would do a good job.  But, to use a well-known phrase, "they brought the house down".  The young people were talking for several weeks about how wonderful the day was.

Part of the Youth Day crowd

Bledi Valca translating for Craig Young

     We received some children's Bible story books, and made them available to those involved with the church, one to a family.  At least that was our plan.  In at least two situations we had to provide an extra copy to families in order to maintain peace in the home, as each child wanted their own copy of the book.

Pray that the teachings therein will take effect

Enlarged Opportunities

     I try very hard to keep myself open to opportunities for service that God allows to come into my life, and he does a good job of filling my cup.  The latest such privilege is in attempting to be an encouragement to the church in Vlora.  Longtime missionaries in Vlora (fifteen years, I believe), Virgil and Jackie Jackson, have returned to the States and the church in Vlora is, understandably experiencing a great gap in their existence as a church.

     For a couple of months now I have been going down to meet with the church there on Sunday afternoons at 5 PM.  There is no definite plan as to what will happen when daylight saving time ends, and the meeting time will once again be in the morning.  I, of course, am currently involved in Lushnja on Sunday mornings.  If we can raise the funds for the Pëllumbis to come and work here in Lushnja it will provide some flexibility for making choices and plans in regard to Vlora (hint, hint).  I am NOT assuming that the Vlora church will naturally want me to continue to work with them, but I am ready to do what God wills and gives provision for.

     Relative to Vlora, I have seen in the Jacksons' reports of the past several mentions of a small boy born with some health issues, the nature of which have not yet been fully diagnosed. His name is Sidrit Dautaj (SEE-dreet Dah-OO-tie), and he has achieved the age of 31/2 years, which is in itself a reason for rejoicing.  Early in his young life his parents were told, "Take him home and let him die".  When I visited in their home, I found a very bright and caring young boy, who mirrored the "thumbs-up" sign I made to him, and added the word "Yes".  His mother tells me that he calls his thumb his "Yes finger".
     We are trying to raise the funding for he and his mother to go to Rome to get some testing done, which involves DNA analysis to assist in diagnosis.  The tests cost 700 Euros for each, and the  round-trip transportation added to that brings the total needed to around $2900 (2000 Euros).  We have been able to raise about $1600 of that amount.

     In the pictures above you can see the family, including Sidrit (means like the light), his grandmother Eli (Ellie), his mother Klodiana, and his father, Eraldo.   Please, if you are able to help, send your donations, marked "Sidrit Fund", to:

Metro church of Christ

Albanian Fund

1525 NW Division St.

Gresham, OR 97030

     Thank you for taking the time to read this newsletter and, again, forgive its delayed arrival.  I state once again, that I will do better to be more timely in communicating with all of you.

To the praise of his glorious name,

Tom

November 2010

The Wagging Has Finally Stopped

     All of you Americans who read this will probably be familiar with the expression "The tail is wagging the dog".  For those not familiar with the expression, it means that what one is supposed to be controlling is actually doing the controlling.  In my case, over the past several months, the "tail" has been a 40' container of medical equipment and supplies delivered to Albania, for which I was the consignee (the dog).

     When I was in the U.S. in December/January I met with our brothers at Global Samaritan Resources, of Abilene, Texas, regarding the possibility of a container being shipped here.  There is a group of Albanians and Kosovars of Albanian descent who are living in Texas.  They had an interest in sending some aid to benefit the northern part of Albania, which was devastated by flooding last winter.  One of those Albanians lives in Abilene, and he had begun discussion with GSR about this possibility.  I was able to connect with him at a meeting with the GSR representatives, and offered to help in whatever way I could.  Little did I know!!

Unloading the container

     I met with officials at the Ministry of Health here in Albania and received agreement from them to work with us in getting the things distributed.  Alfred Zike, who serves the Lord through the Adriatic congregation of Durrës, was a great help in finally getting things approved to receive the container.  I won't go into detail, but just ask you to rejoice with me that the project is finished, and I am able to get back to the work I normally do.  You might also pray that I will be reimbursed about $2,000 that I paid out of my pocket to the shipping company to effect the completion of this endeavor.

Alfred Zike (l), Lodovik Tetaj (r),
Tom Bonner(rear), surrounded by
container contents

Angels Sing

     The highlight of the period since the last newsletter has to have been the baptism of Era Met-Hoxha, a very pleasant sixteen-year old, on March 28.  Era has been studying with us, and faithfully attending worship, for a couple of years now.  Her mother also attends worship with us, and I am working with her on "beginners" English.  Era is a real joy with her upbeat personality and "can-do" attitude.  I am so pleased that she has made the decision to become part of God's family.

     Two van-loads of people went to Durrës for Era's baptism.  I had asked Era to be ready to share her concept of who Jesus is prior to her baptism.  Among other things, she said that this was for her a life-long decision; that she does not plan to follow in any other way than with her whole heart.  

     After her baptism she asked if she could make another statement.  In it she shared that she had lost her father about ten years ago, whom she loved very much, and had not had the comfort of a father in her life since.  She went on to say, through her tears, that now she has our God as her Father, and she feels very blessed.  See for yourself the joy in her face.

Great Anticipation

Great Joy

Group that attended Era's baptism

Grandson Visits

     Brendin Williamson, the oldest son of my daughter Tami and her husband Jack, spent last school year in Heidelberg, Germany.  He is a student at Pepperdine University, and was participating in their Year In Europe program.  During his time "on the continent" he was able to see most of Europe, including spending five days with me in Albania.  We traveled together through most of the country (it's not that big) and saw many of the historical sites, some dating back almost 2000 years.  One such site is a bridge that tradition says Paul crossed when he came through Illyricum, of which Albania was a part (Rom.15:19).  What a blessing to my life was Brendin's visit.  He is the only person from my family who has been able to make it here to Albania, hopefully not the last.

Brendin and I-Forget-Who

Brendin on Paul's Bridge

The Long, Loving Arm of the Lord

     In July I, along with  the Bledi Valça family,  made a trip into Montenegro to meet with, and assist in her entrance into the Kingdom, Marsida Bobaj.  Marsida had been studying the World English Institute materials with an internet teacher, Jo Byrd Huddleston, of Little Rock, Arkansas.  Marsida wanted to be baptized, but since there was no church in her town, she had been doing some talking with the Catholic priest about performing the baptism.  Sister Huddleston contacated Bledi, and he enlisted my assistance to go along and provide transportation.

     It was very interesting to learn "the rest of the story".  Marsida's father had studied the WEI materials before moving to Montenegro from Albania some thirteen years before.  Marsida won a competition at her school, the prize for which was a computer.  Her parents gifted her with internet connection, and her father asked her to see if she could find out anything about WEI on the internet.  She did, became a student, and is now our sister.  About two weeks after her baptism she was able to travel to Albania and participate in the rejuvenated Christian camp.

     How great is our God!!??

Buried with Christ. . .

. . .and raised to walk a new life

Christian Camp

     After a hiatus of several years a Christian camp organized by members of the church of Christ was held again this summer. Virgil and Jackie Jackson, longtime missionaries in Vlorë, had for several years sacrificially organized, constructed and overseen a summer camp in the south of Albania.  That effort ended a few years ago, and many had desired, prayed and worked for a rebirth of such an effort.
     This was the year of the resumption of such an effort.  Much work and prayer preceded the offering of three age-grouped sessions this summer.  Though I have had many years of experience in directing camps I opted to remain a consultant in this situation.  I did make myself available for whatever need might arise that I was capable of fulfilling.  It was, and is, my strong sense that what the Albanian church can do on its own, the better it is overall for the church.  Much of the funding for the effort came from U.S. congregations and individuals.  All we involved with the camp in any way offer our Thanks for the generosity of those of you who donated funds to help this prayed-for dream become a reality.
     The first week of camp was for ages 10-14; the second week for ages 15-18; the third week for ages 18+, as well as families.  Lushnja had representatives at all three sessions, not all of whom had had much, or any, connection with the church prior to the camp session.  Several of our members served as counselors, with each camp session being blessed with at least one of our members working in this capacity.  A total of about two hundred seventy people attended during the three sessions.
     In all, there were thirteen baptisms during the three sessions.  Three of the young people from Lushnja who were at camp, with whom I have been studying for some time, are currently in a process of "counting the cost", and will likely be baptized soon, the Lord willing.  Every person with whom I have spoken who attended any one of the three weeks, has indicated that their lives were greatly blessed by being able to participate.  Everyone is looking forward to next year's offering.

The campers/counselors from the youngest age group 

     Thank you again for your prayers and financial contributions, enabling this event to bless the lives of so many.  May the fruit from this effort continue to be realized throughout the coming year.

Making A Difference

     We do not have workers from the States come to join us in the work here every summer.  This year, however, we did, and were blessed to have Kay Banta, from Arkansas, and Danah Nelson, from California, with us.  Kay has made a number of trips (I forget the number) to Albania, including spending about a year in Tirana in 1998.  Danah made her eleventh trip to Albania this summer, during which times she has worked in a number of places.  This was her second year to partner with us in Lushnja, and Kay's first.

Danah Nelson with one of her students

     Early in our discussion, as the evaluation process about whether to come or not was going on, one of the ladies said that if they did come they wanted to be where they felt they could make a difference.  I assured them that I felt that their presence with us would indeed be a time of impact for the church.  When they came, they "hit the ground running", as far as the work was concerned.  Kay was only able to stay for three weeks, but she and Danah presented to our ladies and teenage girls, as well as some invited non-members, some teacher training sessions.  These included songs as well as Bible stories and teaching methods.  Before Kay left we launched a children's class, and it is now being taught by Era Met-Hoxha (mentioned above regarding her baptism) and Glenida Kajdo, both sixteen-year old young ladies.  Danah and Kay observed this "maiden voyage", and reported back with tears in their eyes about how beautiful a job these two young ladies did.  Danah reported that all of the children (ranging in age from three to twelve years old) were rapt with attention to the lesson being presented.

Kay Banta working with Era in the class

Glenida and Era teaching

     I can tell you that the ladies made a difference, a big difference!!  It is, however, always much better for me when I hear from others that they feel that their efforts have made a difference.  Danah said that she truly did feel that she and Kay made a difference, God working through them, during their presence.

Ladies Day

     Soon after the arrival of Kay and Danah we took a van load and a car load of ladies and teenaged girls to the annual ladies' day for the churches of Christ in Albania.  This year it was hosted , once again, by the church in Elbasan.  I was "blessed" to be able to serve those attending this event refreshments and their meal, as well as serving as "chauffeur".  It was a well-attended event, with representatives present from most of the congregations in the country.

Bible Bowl Competition

     Again this year  we took a van load from Lushnja to the Bible Bowl, hosted this year by the church in Korçë.  The competition was pretty stiff, and though our team did not finish in the top three, we were only a few points (8, I think) behind the first-place finishers.  It was disappointing, but we learned a great deal about the book of Romans as we studied for the competition.

"Paqe" (peace) is written on their thumbs

     Part of our team were Olti Mezini and Sojana Janku.  I had the privilege of baptizing each of them into Christ some time back, and both are young people who truly have a heart for the Lord.  They also have a heart for each other, and have become a married couple .  They are a wonderful young couple, and I hope and pray that their circumstances will allow them to remain in Lushnja when they have finished their university studies.  I have told them that they are B.B.'s for the church in Lushnja, i.e., building blocks.

Olti and Sojana Mezini

Assistance Sought

     One of the leaders of one of the newer congregations in Albania approached me some time back seeking my assistance in making known a desire to expand their ministry.  They have an active ministry to younger children, and are desiring to purchase a van to use in the endeavor.  They figure they will need about $10,000 to complete the purchase.
     The situation here in Lushnja has never been in extreme circumstances as far as need.  However, the worldwide economic situation is beginning to take its toll, and our "cushion" has gotten thinner.  The expenses for the church, as well as the English/Bible school, have been underwritten from the beginning by the working funds received from so many generous brothers and sisters.  We are working to change that, but for now outside help continues to be needed.
      It is not without awareness of worldwide economic turmoil that I include this information and these requests.  However, if the Lord has blessed you to be able to ride out this storm without much negative effect, please consider joining hands in the ministry of the church in Albania.  You can let me know if you desire more detailed information.  Any funds can be sent through the Metro church of Christ (address listed in the margin to the left), but please specify if you have a definite area where you want the funds to be applied, and I will see that they get into the proper hands.

Lifted by love,

Tom

Don't Pay The Ransom!!

Many years ago I heard a story about a man who had stayed out all night with his buddies, and was trying to figure out how to face his wife when he got home.  What story would he tell her?  He hit upon this plan:  He called his wife and said, "Honey, don't pay the ransom!  I've escaped!"  In this way, he thought, he would have justification with his wife for his all-night absence. 

I know that you are smarter than to fall for such a story, so I won't try to use it with you to justify the long hiatus in my reports.  There are many reasons, which perhaps the events recorded in this newsletter will clarify.  But I do feel that I owe it to you who read this accounting from time to time to say, "Please hang in there with me!"

R & R

In the military the term R & R is used to refer to a time of "rest and relaxation (or recuperation)".  Someone has said that for the missionary the term has a bit different meaning: "return and report".  I am blessed that the people who make it possible for me to be here through their sacrificial contributions to the work being done here do not make any unreasonable demands on my time when I am able to come to the U.S.  Nonetheless, I feel a certain obligation to try to connect with as many of you wonderful people as possible during the time I am the country.

Last time I was Stateside I decided it would be wiser to give my car away than to let it sit for almost two years without being used, which I did.  So when I was planning my latest visit I had to determine how I was going to get from place to place.  Through the extreme generosity of a brother and sister, who wish to remain anonymous, I was able to have the use of a rental car for my travels across the country and back.  I drove that 2009 Dodge Charger about 12,000 miles, which is about the norm for my visits to U.S. soil.  THANK YOU, brother and sister!!

I landed in Portland, OR and drove as far east as Knoxville, TN before heading back across the south and up through CA to Portland again.  During my visit I was blessed to spend Christmas in Denver once again with my children and grandchildren, as was the case on my last visit, as well.  I got to visit with my sister and both of my brothers, though for short periods of time.  I saw many Christian brothers and sisters whom I have known for many years, now scattered all across the U.S.  I was blessed to meet with many of  you, though I did not get to see everyone I would have liked to.  I had communicated with some of you about the possibility of by to visit, and did not get a chance to do so.  I am sorry, and I hope you will permit me to do so my next time to do so my next time in the States, if possible.

Carrying On
While I was out of the country it was a great feeling to know that the preaching in the church here in Lushnja was being handled by young men who were not Christians when I first came to Albania.  The Inertational Bible Institute of Albania, with Steve Stamatis directing, is owed a great deal of credit for this wonderful condition.  One of the young men trained in the school, Altin Koçi, was one of the first converts here in Lushnja.  He is now working full-time with the church in Fier.  Two others converted here in Lushnja have also expressed interest in studying in the school to improve their knowledge of the Bible.  Please pray that this kind of interest will continue.

At the same time, the need for outside support for full-time workers is very great here.  The current unemployment level in Albania is 48%.  Among those fortunate enough to have work, the average yearly income is about $2,000.  So the giving in most of the Albanian churches is, understandably, well below the needs of the churches.  Yes, the economy is bad all over the world.  Asking people to dig deeper for missions when many are already stretching themselves may seem crass or unfeeling.  Yet I unashamedly put that heartfelt challenge before you.  Please prayerfully consider continuing, or beginning, support of the kingdom work being done here Albania.  Only eternity will tell us the value of such a decision.

Visit From Family
In the seven and one-half years I have been here in Albania, none have my family have been able to visit here to see the country, and meet people I love.  Until now!  Brendin Williamson, my second-oldest grandchild, is a Pepperdine sophomore who has been studying this year in the Year In Europe program in Heidelberg, Germany.  On his Spring break he honored me with a five-day visit, just ten days after my return from the States.  We were able to travel to several of the historic sites of the country, as well as to some of the more picturesque areas.  What a blessing it was.  He was very patient as he listened to me tell of many things from my past.  I shared with him my dreams for the future of the Lord's kingdom here in the place that was a part of the Ilyricum to which Paul said, in Romans 15:19, he had been privileged to take the gospel.  One of the places we visited was a bridge that tradition says Paul crossed as he traversed Illyricum.

Christian Camp
There will once again be a camp for the young people of the church here in Albania this summer.  There has been a lot of planning and effort put forth in this regard, and we praise God for the results.  Eventually it is the desire of brethren throughout the country to have our own property and permanent facilities, which can be used all year, and not just by the young people.  It is envisioned that this can be a retreat center where many of the activities that take place for the benefit of church members nationwide can be held.  That is still in the future, but efforts will continue to made and prayers will continue to be offered to that end.

For this summer we will be utilizing facilities owned by an evangelical group in the south of Albania.   We will have three one-week sessions, age specific.  The cost for tuition, including food, will be about the equivalent of $62 USD.  I have mentioned before in this posting the economic conditions here in Albania.  The amount of money, by U.S. standards, does not sound like too much.  By the standards of most Albanians, it is quite a challenging amount.  All the churches have been encouraged to provide for their own who might need a scholarship to be able to attend.  Many are less able to do so than you might imagine.  So, I come, once again with hat in hand, so to speak, asking you to assist us in this effort.  If you are able to provide a scholarship for even one child, it will be a great blessing.  Donations for this, and all other purposes, can be directed to the Metro church of Christ, 1525 NW Division, Gresham, OR 97030.  Please note on the outside of the envelope, For Albania.  In addition, please include a note in the envelope that states specifically for what the money is to be used.


Summer Campaign
We also will be having a World English Institute teaching campaign here in Lushnja this summer.  If you are not familiar with this ministry, check it out at www.weiady.org.  This will consist of teaching English and Bible together, utilizing the WEI materials.  Almost all the converts here in Lushnja have come through this means of teaching.  In fact, next Sunday we will be having another baptism, the Lord willing, as a direct result of the use of these materials in our year-long teaching program.

We are looking for more teachers who would be willing and able to come and work with us in this effort, beginning the last week of June.  Again, the economy is a detriment for many people.  If you would like to come, but cannot afford the costs of transportation and living expenses that will be incurred, please ask if your church or fellow-Christians can enable this to happen through their donations.

If you are interested in coming, please let me know and additional information will be provided to you.  My email addresses are listed on the right side of this newsletter.  Please note that one of the addresses, my primary receiving address, has been changed.  It is now tbonner@metrocofc.org.

Techno-Challenged
I got a new camera, and have been unable to get it to work with me on downloading pictures.  I had some I wanted to share with you, but it will have to wait until next time.  I am already so far behind in my communications with you, and am being encouraged by brothers and sisters to get some word out.  So, I am sending this pictureless and will try to get it figured out before next newsletter.  And it is my utmost desire to communicate monthly with you.  Please forgive the delay.

Praise God!!
Yes, praise God for his many blessings.  But above all, praise him for the salvation that is ours through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.  Please praise him for those who have come to know Jesus through our efforts here, and ask that the number of such people will increase here in a land locked in the grip of a tragic past.

Walking With Jesus Daily,

Tom

September 2009

Old Dog, New Tricks

This old saying has taken on new significance as I have tried to reformat the newsletter, with little technological knowledge or skill. This situation, along with many additional events happening, have contributed to the lateness of my sharing with you regarding the Lord's work here in Lushnja. I apologize, but cannot promise that it will not happen again. I have been toying with various formats, other than this blog page, for creating the newsletter. For those who want to be able to just provide the internet link to their congregations, this is a great format. For smaller churches who are trying to copy the newsletter each time a new posting takes place, it is a bit problematic. I will continue to work on it, wanting to make it as easy and convenient as possible for everyone.

God Is Good

There is probably no one who follows God who has not, at some time, questioned why things were happening the way they were in his/her life. I know this is true of me and my life. Because I've been around for a long time I've had many opportunities to say, "It's in your hands, my God!" I don't always do so when I need to, but I've gotten better at doing so with time.

I was reminded recently, by someone who is going through severe trials, that our God is good all the time! Over and over throughout scripture the concept of God's goodness is presented. The Psalms, particularly, remind us constantly that "His love endures forever." Those words do not say to me only that his love will last into the unimaginable future, but that it is here, now, today, in my struggles and in my joys. I, for one, need to improve my expression of appreciation to God for all he does, all the time.

I was also reminded recently that it is easy to forget the past "goodnesses" and blessings of our God when things are difficult. Someone has suggested that too many of us have the attitude that expresses itself with thinking that says, "Yes, God, but what have you done for me lately?" God has been good to me. I don't get to see my physical family very often, but my family (really God's family) has been/is being enlarged here in Albania. God is pleased and glorified when people come to him through Jesus, becoming spiritual children.

Precious also to God are the young ones who are born into our physical families. Small children are a special blessing to me, and I love them dearly. As I have reported in previous newsletters, we have had two new babies born into our circle of love in the church in Lushnja, Amelja and Ajla. Amelja is the older of the two, now almost a year old, and she has decided she wants to sing with us in worship, and she does it with gusto. I am including a picture of me taken with our two "babes in arms".  Aren't I blessed?

Amelja, Tom, Ajla

Church Happenings

The church here has been blessed to be involved in a number of different activities during the past several months. One such event was the annual "Bible Bowl", normally hosted by the central church in Durrës, and Çimi Kafexhiu (preacher for that congregation) does an excellent job of organizing and preparation. Let me be quick to acknowledge, as I know he would, that he has a lot of help in staging this event. We had a team go from here once again, and our people did well. The material covered this year was the gospel of Mark, and we placed third overall. In addition, our Alma Kajdo placed third in the individual category. The other participants from Lushnja were, Maks and Mira Balla, Sonila Bano, Glenida Kajdo, Bojkena Selmanaj and Era Met-Hoxha. 
  

Sonila, Mira, Maks

Bojkena, Era, Glenida, Alma

It is our blessing to have not only the two "church" babies shown above, but also several mothers of new babies or young children who have much interaction with the church.  We have begun the practice of providing, once a month, an outing at a local indoor playground/coffee bar for the mothers and the children, which we pay for.  It is another "bridge-building" activity which is being well-received by those in participation.  Take a look at the joy on the faces of these children.

It was our privilege to have Danah Nelson and Shelly Miller, from Sacramento, CA come by for a visit.  Danah has been many times to Albania to work in summer campaigns in a number of places, including Lushnja.  This year she brought Shelly with her, and they worked for a month with the church in Korça.  We have "adopted" Danah here in Lushnja, and hopefully she and Shelly can spend a month with us next year.                                        

                                                                   Sojana and Danah                                                                                                                                                           

Shelly and Ari 

We also had a visit from two brothers from the Slicer Street church, in Kennett, MO. Gaylon Mullins (elder) and Shawn Sando (missions deacon) came primarily to become more familiar with the two young men they are supporting to work with the church in Fier, Altin Koçi and Eduart Hoxha. You may recall that Altin became a christian here in Lushnja, and both young men are graduates of the International Bible Institute of Albania, a satellite school of the Sunset International Bible Institute.

Shawn Sando and Gaylon Mullins

I, too, have been blessed to receive support from the Slicer Street church, and have been working hand-in-hand with them in dispersing funds for the work in Fier, as well as just inter-facing with the Fier church on their behalf. Slicer Street has a long involvement with the work of planting the church here in Albania, the positive results of which will not be known this side of eternity. I had offered in advance to let these two brothers use the car that had come my way through their good graces, when the Byrnes left Fier and returned to the States. I picked them up at the airport, and we drove into Tirana to meet with a brother whom Gaylon had known as a college student in the U.S., Sokol Haxhiu. Sokol is a faithful member of the church in Tirana, and has a very responsible position with the U.N. here in Albania, having worked for them for five years now. At any rate, when Gaylon and Shawn observed the way Albanian drivers drove as we were in Tirana, both declined to accept the offer of the use of the car.

Gaylon and Shawn also became the first guests in my "new" home here in Lushnja. My home for the first month in Albania was a hotel, then I moved into the second floor of a private home, where I stayed for seven years. A local businessman offered a complete private 2-story home for not too much more than I was paying in the other place. It has two bathrooms (a real plus with guests), sleeping room for up to ten people besides myself, a very nice kitchen with granite countertops, two outside covered verandas, a garage, and fruit trees (orange, lemon, mandarin). Shawn was only with me for one night, as his stay was less than a week, and they spent most of that time in Fier. Gaylon stayed with me for several nights, then finished his time in Albania back in Fier. During his time with me we were able to make a trip to the ancient city of Berat, which was a blessing for Gaylon. He had been in Albania before, but never got to see much of the older buildings existing here.

Partial outside view

A nice kitchen

Trip To The States

I made my last trip to the States around the Christmas/New Year holiday of '07-'08. I am currently working on plans to come again for the same holiday period this year, carrying over into next year. My children, grandchildren, and I are hoping to be able to enjoy another family Christmas. I will likely also visit in each of my children's homes (Washington, California, Colorado), the Lord willing, of course.

In addition, I plan to visit all of the supporters and encouragers of this work that I can work into the schedule, plus visit with my brothers and sister in Idaho, Georgia, and California. During my travels it is my intention to attend the Eastern European Summit, Romanian/Albanian Conference which is being hosted this time around by the Prestoncrest church of Christ in Dallas, TX. If you are close enough, and have an interest in the work being done in these two European countries, plan to attend January 8-9, 2010.

I cannot promise anything at the moment, until I see what all becomes part of my schedule, but if you would like to have me visit with you and/or your congregation please let me know as soon as possible. I normally drive around 12,000 miles on each visit to the U.S., so please understand if some visits cannot be included.


My thanks to all of you for your interest in the work here, in whatever way you express it.  You may only read my occasional reports - thank you!  You may contribute funds to help this ministry exist - thank you!  If you pray for this work, that God will be glorified - a double thank you!   Please know that you are appreciated, even if the words don't come your way as often as they should.


Lifted by his love,


Tom

May 2009

A Period Of Change

At the beginning of April Steve and Ruth Byrne, who have been working with the church in Fier for almost three years, left Albania. Steve was offered, and accepted, an invitation to work with the Pearl Harbor church of Christ in Honolulu. Their departure was unexpected, and their absence will surely be felt, especially by the church in Fier. We wish them the best of everything, and the blessings of God, in their new work.

The working of God is seen in the transition for the church in Fier, indeed, for all of Albania. For about 3 1/2 years Steve and Deborah Stamatis have been working with the satellite school of Sunset International Bible Institute here in Albania, known in its short form as IBIA. The long-term impact of this endeavor will be known only in eternity, but positive things are definitely happening. Two young men who are graduates of that school, Altin Koçi and Eduart Hoxha, were asked by the elders of the Slicer Street church of Christ of Kennett, MO (the sponsoring church for the work in Fier) to jointly assume the duties of full-time workers with the church in Fier. This is especially gratifying to me, since Altin was one of our early converts here in Lushnja. I will be, at the request of the Slicer Street elders, serving as a resource person for both the church and the young men. In that role I will have the privilege of meeting at least once a month with the Fier church, as well as an additional monthly meeting with Altin and Edi.

Eduart Hoxha and Altin Koçi

Prior to coming to Albania the Byrnes had secured funding through a Christian foundation to purchase a vehicle for their use here. They were able to buy a new 2006 Toyota RAV4, which the Slicer Street elders have graciously made available to me for my travels about the country. What a blessing! I felt blessed to have been able to purchase about 5 1/2 years ago, with the help of some of you, a 1996 8-passenger van. I will retain, and use, both vehicles. The van is needed when we go anywhere as a group. I will make either vehicle available to churches and individuals to use in activities relating to the work of the kingdom, provided I can be assured the driving skills are adequate and the proposed drivers have licenses, neither criterion being a given here in Albania.

God Is Blessing

Often in our Christian lives we are faced with frustration. That is because the Prince of Darkness works very hard at what he does. One of the most effective tools Satan uses is to blind our eyes to the positives of God's presence, thus causing us to wrongfully believe that God is absent, or uncaring. In reality, however, if we daily look for the many ways in which we are loved and lifted by His presence, we will find little reason for despair. Paul's recounting of the events of his life, negative and disastrous though they may have been, (2 Cor. 1:8ff, NIV) led him back to the conclusion that "this happened that we might not rely on ourselves, but on God, who raises the dead." (v. 9).

In this time of worldwide crisis, it is my prayer that I, that we all, keep our eyes on the Lord of life and not on the lord of this world, Satan. There is, to be sure, plenty about which to be concerned (see verse 8 in the scripture above), things that can even bring us to the point of despair. But for the Christian there is a great deal to be learned about God and about ourselves through these experiences, namely that we do not rely on ourselves, but on God. We are being blessed here in Lushnja with an attendance averaging close to 30 each week. At almost every gathering there are more non-members than members. That can be frustrating, if we do not realize that it is a sign that many are willing, perhaps even anxious, to hear the saving message of the cross.

Transitions
That is what our lives consist of - transitions. From one place to another, from one age to another, from one stage to another. The most important transition, however, is that of which Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 3:18. The word Paul used was "transform" (at least in my English translation) which is indeed a transition. His words were: "And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the spirit."

The question for us is always going to be, "How is your transformation going?" I am thrilled to see the transformation in so many of those who knew nothing of Christianity just a short time ago, here in Albania. I am, in contrast, troubled by the lack of transformation in others, who just don't seem to "get it". I try very hard to see things in the perspective of how frustrated our God surely has been with me, from time to time, through my 50+ years of walking with Him. That moderates my frustration with others, but it doesn't eliminate it altogether.

A case in point is the recent concern one of our members had over having their name and photo posted on the internet, through this newsletter. There is no threat of life for being a Christian here, such as in some other countries, just an "identity transition". As I considered this perplexing situation I was forced to reexamine how often I had similar concerns in my early walk with the Lord, in a much less challenging environment. I was brought to realize, once again, the need for great patience, but not concession.

The God Of Our Needs
I have never been involved with planting a church in a foreign land prior to coming to Albania. One of the greatest challenges I face is in trying to keep the focus off American sufficiency, and directed instead toward God sufficiency. In the eyes of most Albanians (there are some exceptions) America is a great country for many reasons, not the least of which is its prosperity. Because America has been blessed materially, and here we are trying to share the blessings, it is difficult not to create an atmosphere in which people are drawn to the church for that reason rather than because of God's great love.

As I stated before, we have been averaging close to 30 in attendance each Lord's Day. Because there are more people there is need for more activities and offerings. Space in which to provide fellowship and teaching activities beyond what are now taking place is a pressing need. Once again, we do not want to create dependency, but feel the need to address the space issue. Across the street from us is a new shop which is available for about $160 per month. Its proximity to our present facilities would make it a wonderful adjunct, usable in many ways. Pray that we will make the right decision, one that will promote the gospel and fellowship, while not creating an aura of dependency. UPDATE: We have agreed with the owners on renting the shop, and we will begin using it the first of June.

Current facilities, taken from in front of additional facility

Open door is additional facility, taken from current location

Another Birth
We have another "church baby". We shared with you about six months ago regarding the birth of Amelja, the daughter of Alma Kajdo, who works part-time with me. Now Amelja has a cousin, as our sister in Christ, Silvana Eksarko, gave birth last week to a little girl, who has been named Ajla (pronounced "eye-la"). Silvana is the sister-in-law of Alma, and a faithful sister in the Lord. Please pray for Silvana, as she faces a difficult time raising her daughter. Her husband lives and works in Greece, and she seldom sees him.

Silvana Eksarko with her newborn daughter, Ajla

Christian Camp

We have shared with you in previous newsletters about the plans and efforts to rekindle the Christian camping program here in Albania. Your generous hearts have responded with several thousand dollars to be used in the project. As of this writing our project will still be "in process" for another year. There are many obstacles to overcome, not the least of which is having someone who can devote a considerable amount of time to the effort.

In lieu of the desired results, negotiations are underway regarding utilizing existing facilities controlled by other organizations. This plan would give us an opportunity for younger children at a place near the Adriatic Sea, south of Durrës. The other possibility is a camp for older youth at a camp near the city of Korça, in the southeast part of the country.

We have not given up the dream, and will use all funds received for making a Christian camping experience available to the youth of our churches, and others, throughout Albania. The need for outside funding will, at least for the foreseeable future, continue to exist. Please keep this in your prayers, and if possible in your plans for how to utilize your "expendable income". You have blessed us here in so many ways, and I pray God's blessings on you.


Lifted by His love,



Tom