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We, a group of 17 people from four communities, experienced the timeless principle of "giving and receiving" during our trip to Moldova from December 4th to December 11th, 2023. Together, we helped people living in extreme poverty, prayed for families in need, and brought unforgettable joy to children through our Christmas packages.
3 groups – 3 regions – one goal
We were able to distribute the countless Christmas packages, previously delivered by Mission Stephanus via truck, to many children and families in Moldova. By dividing our travel group into smaller groups of about 5 to 6 people, we were able to reach more families and the distribution of the Christmas packages proceeded more quickly. We split up to cover the regions of Gagauzia, Chișinău, and Sărata-Galbenă.
The pastor of each local congregation assisted us with the deliveries. Despite the great distance of more than 2,000 kilometers, it was a wonderful feeling to be united by a common goal: to show people the love of Christ. The selfless and energetic approach of the local brothers to their ministry left a deep impression on many of us.
For example, there was a pastor who owns a 30-year-old VW Polo. Every time the car starts, he thanks God. But during our home visits, we also saw how some brothers and sisters had a true shepherd's heart and prayed fervently for the members of their congregation.
The vivid testimonies in Moldova showed us how important it is to serve God with everything we have and are. We knew perfectly well that the Lord held His hand behind everything and that we were graced by Him to perform this special service: “In everything I have shown you that by this way we should work hard and help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, who himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’” (Acts 20:35).
Aid in a country without prospects
Moldova is often described as the poorest country in Europe. It has little industry, poor infrastructure, and limited educational opportunities. Many young people, including Christians, therefore seek to leave the country in search of better prospects. It seems as if the country is slowly dying out. Yet, even in this apparent lack of opportunity, God continually moves hearts that are willing to give everything for God's church in their own country.
An American father volunteered to build and finance an entire community center himself, along with his sons. In places like Sarata-Galbin, entire mission centers are springing up, encompassing various facilities such as retirement homes, orphanages, and even their own bakery. These facilities help those in need, for example, by providing bread from the bakery.
Thanks to the energetic support a powerless community leader received for his service to needy children, he can now joyfully observe a new generation growing up in his community.
Where God bestows His blessing and ministry bears fruit, the enemy also tries to destroy everything. Despite all the attacks, obstacles, and hurdles, the word of our Lord Jesus remains: “ And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).
During the mission trip, we experienced once again what it means to be grateful for what we have. This experience showed us that even in Germany, we shouldn't focus solely on material possessions, but should also appreciate blessings and insights.
Philipp Diwold, Municipality of Speyer
Further information about the project and the opportunity to donate can be found here: https://cdh-stephanus.org/moldawien/
