Transform Europe Network magazine

MAGAZINE January – March 2019

www.ten-uk.org

DECLARATION OF

DEFIANCE MAKING ALL THINGS NEW VALUE OF LIFE ROYAL RANGERS MISSION TO MACEDONIA HEART CRY

EDITORIAL

FRESH EXPRESSIONS In our first magazine of 2019 we bring you stories of new life springing up across Europe. Discover fresh expressions of mission that demonstrate God’s love and proclaim the Gospel.

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e report on new partnerships between churches, first-time team visits to eastern Europe, innovative ways to offer support, and ministry that continues to change lives.

You can also find out what happened when a church in Bristol decided to give away 10% of its new-building funds to help a church in Moldova to have its own new building.

There are also great challenges.

Many of you may have heard about the proposed new laws in Bulgaria that would severely restrict the freedoms of evangelical Christians. We report on the response as thousands of Bulgarian believers took to the streets to protest and pray.

We are overwhelmed by the goodness of God as we see answers to prayer on a daily basis. Your prayers and generosity are producing much fruit for God’s kingdom. Our 2018 Harvest for the Hungry appeal has already raised an amazing £25,000, for which we are truly thankful, and funds are being distributed to our partners.

Finally, we hope that many of you will be able to join us for our one-day conference in Bristol on Saturday 11th May, 2019. We have invited some great guest speakers to represent our network of partners across Europe. More details on booking are shown on the back cover.

It is our prayer that you will be encouraged to continue your support for the work of TEN as you catch up on our latest news.

Ursoaia Church members outside the new building with the team from Christ Church, Downend, Bristol

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK Registered office: 23 Apex Court, Woodlands, Bradley Stoke, Bristol BS32 4JT Tel: +44 (0)117 961 5161 Web: ten-uk.org TEN_Today

Email: info@ten-uk.org

transformeuropenetwork

TEN Magazine written and produced by the TEN team. Design by Simon Petherick Graphic and Web Design.

Transform Europe Network (TEN) is the operating name for Eurovangelism.

Registered in England and Wales as a charity (no. 1140592) and company limited by guarantee (no. 7507682).

Welcome to the first TEN magazine of 2019, I hope you have had a joyful Christmas. May you also have a very happy and blessed New Year.

At the beginning of this New Year, I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your faithful support for TEN in 2018.

A New Year provides an ideal time to look forward and prayerfully set fresh objectives. It is also a wonderful opportunity to look back over the previous year and thank God for His provision, blessings and faithfulness. I’m amazed at what God has done through this organisation and you, the TEN family. I am so grateful for your support in prayer, time and giving.

Thank you!

Recently, I had the privilege of visiting TEN’s partners in Serbia. I was so encouraged to see growing churches and effective compassion ministries, this as a result of the many years of faithful work by dedicated men and women of God. To see lives transformed by being introduced to Jesus was especially inspiring. I was personally greatly impacted on hearing the stories of lives being made new, having been rescued from addiction and abuse. To see the radiance of Jesus on their faces as they told their stories of once broken lives, now renewed and filled with hope and a future was truly amazing. This will have a lasting effect on me.

Hearing these powerful stories, I’m reminded of what Ephesians 2 v 4–5 says, ‘But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.’

Now, as we look forward, let’s first thank God for his amazing love, mercy and grace. With confidence, let’s press on together in God’s commission to go; keeping Jesus central in all we do, knowing it is only through the power of the Gospel of Jesus that individual lives, and communities will be transformed and made new. We pray ‘Jesus, let your Kingdom come in Europe’.

Thank you for partnering with us in the Gospel. God bless you all.

CONTENTS 4

6 8

Declaration of Defiance Bulgaria

New Life Romania

A New Chapter Moldova

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New Church Growth

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The Value of New Life

11 17

19 20

Bulgaria

Serbia

Heart Cry Prayer Diary January – March 2019

Pray for Europe Country focus: Croatia

Thank You and Au Revoir David Thomas

The Royal Rangers Serbia

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Christianity Explored

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A New Way of Giving

23 24 25 26

Albania

Sponsor a Bible Student

Fundraising News Thank you!

Giving to TEN Five ways to give

Do Something New Short-term mission trips

New Friends Macedonia

Gerry Partridge

CEO, Transform Europe Network Cover photo: Bulgarian Christians on the march in Sofia, by Vlady Raichinov

TRANSFORMING EUROPE – PRAY FOR BULGARIA

DECLARATION OF DEFIANCE IN

BULGARIA Since Sunday 11th November, thousands of Christians have braved the rain, snow and cold to take to the streets of towns and cities across Bulgaria in a series of Sunday afternoon rallies for united prayer, speeches and peaceful protest.

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his follows the Bulgarian government’s introduction of draft amendment to the Religious Denominations Act 2002, which directly threatens the essential freedoms of

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Christians and local churches. The proposed legislative changes were first presented to the Bulgarian parliament on 4th October 2018 and are due to be considered again soon.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – PRAY FOR BULGARIA

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We will continue the protests and prayer meetings in Bulgaria until the suggested changes to religious laws are completely withdrawn or until we see realistic proposals which guard religious freedoms and the right to a belief of everyone in Bulgaria.

Rev Teodor Oprenov, First Baptist Church, Sofia

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and rights of foreign nationals as visiting preachers or missionaries. The Declaration also provides detailed references that show how the proposed changes to the law are unconstitutional and a violation of civil rights.

As the United Nations celebrates the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, believers across Bulgaria pray for the withdrawal of the proposed laws and have taken a stand to preserve their legal rights: • Freedom of faith • Freedom of speech • Freedom of association TEN’s partners in Bulgaria urge fellowChristians from across Europe, and beyond, to pray that God would overturn these proposed changes to the law to raise awareness in their churches and to write to their MEPs, Ambassadors and Bulgarian government officials.

Read more at: www.bit.ly/bulgaria-freedoms

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Following the two earlier protests organised by Bulgaria’s evangelical church leaders, thousands of believers, carrying banners and Bulgarian flags, marched to the National Assembly building in the capital, Sofia on Sunday 25th November to pray, sing hymns and voice their united protest. As they processed through the streets they sang hymns and chanted, “Jesus is the way, the truth and the life!” and “Freedom for Faith in Bulgaria!”

At the rally, more than a dozen evangelical church leaders spoke passionately about their total opposition to the new laws and prayed fervently for God’s intervention.

They also signed a Declaration of defiance that was delivered the following day to the President, Rumen Radev and Prime Minister Boyko Borisov.

The 7,000 word Declaration sets out the current legal framework of both the Bulgarian Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights that enable Christians to enjoy their freedoms of religious association, freedom of speech

I assure those present at this rally that freedom was not obtained freely. Thirty years ago, the atheist authority withdrew from the persecution of true Christians by saying that Communism had gone; but not communist thinking. It’s time to uphold freedom, which is our right guaranteed by the Constitution.

Dr. Rumen Ivanov, the Church of God in Bulgaria

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – CHURCH PARTNERSHIPS

NEW LIFE IN

ROMANIA Steve Cowie, New Life Baptist Church, Northallerton

Photo: Sunrise at the Black Sea in Mamaia, Constanta, Romania

New Life Baptist Church (NLBC) is an evangelical, charismatic community of around 250 people in Northallerton, North Yorkshire.

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O

ur ministry in Romania began 25 years ago when the members of the church and the wider community were touched by the practical needs of that country. This led to hundreds of shoe boxes, knitted goods and other practical supplies being sent out every year, along with teams to help distribute the gifts to the poorest families and communities.

Working with local partners primarily in Transylvania, and particularly Aiud and Simaria, we helped many families with food supplies on a monthly basis.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – CHURCH PARTNERSHIPS

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The Lord had this partnership already waiting for us…

In 2017, the ministry in Transylvania underwent changes in leadership and we sensed a new direction was necessary. This process of revaluation and seeking God’s future plan was led by Steve Cowie, the Mission and Community Pastor of NLBC. At that time Rick Lewis, author of ‘Mentoring Matters’, a long-term friend of NLBC, introduced us to TEN. This was a strategic connection which led to us being introduced to Beni and Ancuta Micle in Constanta, Romania as possible future partners for NLBC. NLBC were looking for partners in Romania who were serving the poor and bringing the gospel of Jesus simultaneously. When Richard Cutting, an Elder at NLBC, and Steve Cowie visited Constanta in November 2017 with Terry Wood, Ambassador from TEN, to explore this opportunity, they found exactly what they were looking for, and their hearts were knitted together with Beni and Ancuta. Richard and Steve visited the villages where Beni, Acuta and their teams minister in a practical way to the very poorest, and where they also plant churches. They were convinced this was the partnership they had been praying for.

“The Lord had this partnership already waiting for us,” says Steve. “Our introduction to TEN and the trip to meet Beni and Ancuta and their children, Junior and Magnolia, served to confirm our expectations. Bonds of friendship and missional desire were forged during that visit”.

Following this visit in November 2017, the decision to partner with Beni and Ancuta through TEN was supported by the leadership and wider church in Northallerton. This led to a visit from Beni

Richard Cutting (left), Steve Cowie (centre), Beni Micle (right) at Agape Christian Fellowship in Navordi, Constanta.

and Ancuta to NLBC in June 2018 when they were able to meet the church. This served to build and widen relationships.

2018 has been a year of transition for our ministry in Romania—from Transylvania to Constanta. In September this year, the church took up a special offering to help support students in the Mathetis Bible School; founded and led by Pastor Beni and supported by other church leaders in Constanta. Over £5,000 was raised which has now been sent and will be a real help in training new pastors for the church planting programme. In November, we sent to Constanta a consignment of shoe boxes and knitted items.

Our first team trip to Constanta is to take place early in 2019, when our partnership with Beni and Ancuta will begin in earnest.

Steve says, “We believe this new partnership will be a mutual blessing to those in Constanta and Northallerton, as God by His Spirit empowers us to bring in His Kingdom. We are indebted to Gerry Partridge, CEO of TEN and Terry Wood for their support and advice throughout our journey and look forward to a longterm relationship.” +44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – CHURCH PARTNERSHIPS

A NEW CHAPTER IN

MOLDOVA

Reverend Paul Peterson, Christ Church Downend

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hen Pastor Misa Hiorescu spent time in Bristol in October 2018, the creative partnership between Christ Church Downend, TEN and the church in Ursoaia, Moldova was strengthened and celebrated. His visit marked a new chapter in the relationship that was developed largely through the passionate advocacy of the late Martin Brown, who was an active church member and a former trustee of Eurovangelism.

The link with Misa and the Christian community in Ursoaia, was established after Mark McCormick preached at Christ Church eight years ago. Envisioned by Mark, Martin and two members of the congregation, who were also long term supporters of TEN, visited Misa and his family in Moldova and the church adopted Misa as a mission partner.

Christ Church’s vision for connecting with the worldwide church is always rooted in a desire for genuine engagement and as the church embarked on a major reordering project, a creative opportunity was identified. It was agreed that donations from church members for the rebuild would be tithed, so that a new church building could be funded in Ursoaia, enabling Misa’s outreach ministry to grow.

By the autumn of 2017, the Christ Church project was well underway and the church building in Ursoaia had been completed. A group from Christ Church was able to spend a week in Moldova, ministering with Misa and his

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Ursoaia Church building completed

congregation, and taking part in the dedication of the new church.

Bryan Ashton was one of those who visited and observed; “It was incredibly humbling to spend time with Misa and his family and to get a glimpse of the challenges facing the Christian community in Eastern Europe. I was overwhelmed by Misa’s humility and faithful witness, and it highlighted the value of partnerships like ours. We learnt so much from our stay and visiting made the link so much more meaningful.”

When the Christ Church building re-opened in October 2018, it was only natural to invite Misa to be part of the re-dedication weekend. During his stay he was able to contribute to services and share his story with many from the church.

He also enjoyed a cultural tour of Bristol and met staff at the TEN office.

As a result of his visit, others have been envisioned and there are plans for a return visit to Moldova in the autumn of 2019.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

TRANSFORMING EUROPE – CHURCH PARTNERSHIPS

NEW CHURCH GROWTH IN

BULGARIA

Alex Vulkanov, Evangelical Pentecostal Church in Pazardjik, Bulgaria

D

uring the past 12 months of 2018 we have welcomed 10 new believers to the Evangelical Pentecostal Church in Pazardjik. These people have been reached by prayer and personal evangelism. In our church, we have increased our prayer time for the lost souls and we encourage each other in personal evangelism.

In our region of Bulgaria, we need to secure permission from the local government for meetings on the street or to rent community halls. Very often we have problems with the permissions so we have redirected our efforts to personal evangelism. We share the gospel with friends, neighbours, colleagues, close people and acquaintances, sometimes with strangers we meet in the markets, shops, on the street or some public events.

Some of the new Christians have come from bad environments and they have

already started to change their way of living. Their old friends have seen this change in their behaviour and have attempted to persuade them back into old ways. In this region of Bulgaria, if someone openly says that they are a Christian, they immediately receive treatment as someone with mental health problems or as a traitor of Bulgarian traditions. But praise God, He holds us in His hand.

We disciple new believers by developing closer relationships, welcoming them into home groups or bible study group and giving them opportunity to ask questions.

We also encourage new believers to take on some responsibilities and to involve them in different church ministries. And we never forget that, “Everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and gave us a ministry of reconciliation…” 2 Corinthians 5:18.

Baptisms in Bulgaria

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

THE VALUE OF

NEW LIFE Vesna Radeka, Choose Life, Serbia

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osalie first came to the Choose Life centre in Novi Sad in the summer of 2014 for a free pregnancy test, and it was positive. As a young mum with two small children, she was already exhausted looking after her family in their small, 290 square feet home. Her husband was out of work. She felt there was no option other than an abortion.

At the centre, we talked with Rosalie about prenatal development and about the value of human life. She decided to continue her pregnancy and went on to give birth to a lovely baby son, Michael.

Rosalie found much encouragement and support at the centre and went on to have another baby girl. As a team we wanted to help Rosalie in any way we could. We paid for her sewing classes and she became a great student, very committed and passionate. She loved sewing so much that we encouraged her to make business out of her new skills. We bought a very good sewing machine for her and she now sells her creations online.

Photos: Rosalie and baby Michael; Rosalie’s sewing creations

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TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

HEART CRY Prayer requests from across Europe

JANUARY – MARCH 2019 ten-uk.org/pray

HEART CRY / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

— JANUARY 2019 — ANDREI GHEDEON MOLDOVA 1 Pray for all the people who have heard the Gospel in recent weeks and that many will join the home groups for Bible study.

2 Pray for the seminars for couples in Burlacu that are aimed at presenting a biblical model of marriage and family life.

TOMISLAV DOBUTOVIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 3 Please pray for the Eastern calendar, Christmas services in January supported by the team from the UK.

BESA SHAPLLO ALBANIA 9 Pray that the recent Christmas events may leave the fragrance of Christ in the community of Bathore.

10 Pray that the activities and programmes planned for 2019 will be a blessing and a light to the residents of Bathore.

DRAGAN MANEV MACEDONIA 11 Pray for Orthodox Christmas outreach on 7th of January. We will share around 350 shoe boxes in Resen and the surrounding villages.

12 Pray for the new children’s outreach programme, The Greatest Journey, taking place in a restaurant in Resen.

VASILE GRIGORITA MOLDOVA

13 Pray for the people in our town of Resen who need food, wood and winter clothes.

4 Pray for all the people from the village of Brinza who heard the Gospel during the recent outreach mission home groups.

RUSLAN TELPIZ MOLDOVA

5 Pray for the children who attend the winter day camp at the beginning of January.

14 Pray for all the people reached through the FRANKs mission in Gotesti and especially for those who prayed to be truly saved.

GAVRIL COVACI ROMANIA

15 Pray for all the people attending the new Bible study groups in Gotesti, Moldova.

6 Pray that God will provide the community of Vașad, Romania with enough food to eat and wood for the fire through the winter.

ANATOL DUNAS MOLDOVA

7 Pray that work to construct a church building for the new Christians of Tarcea, Romania will be completed.

8 Pray that the impoverished Roma communities of Tinca and Tarcea in Romania will have enough food throughout the winter.

16 Please pray for the 65 students from Cahul who took part in the recent Bible classes.

17 Pray for the follow up of all those in Cahul who responded to the Gospel with a prayer of repentance.

ten-uk.org/pray

18 Pray for the provision of 100 beds, mattresses and other furniture for the newly built camp in Cahul, Moldova.

29 Pray that the Lord would raise up more evangelists to help bring in a great harvest across Moldova.

19 Pray that the construction of two new cabins for the campsite in Cahul will be completed before the end of May.

30 Pray that more of the youths in the village of Ursoaia would discover the reality of Jesus Christ.

MARIAN SERBAN ROMANIA

DRAGAN MANEV MACEDONIA

20 Pray for the provision of a second vehicle to help transport the Project Romanian Rescue children in Casa Anna and Casa Benjamin.

31 Pray for a deeper unity in prayer among neighbouring churches in Macedonia.

21 Please pray for the three teenage girls who are learning work skills prior to their departure from Project Romanian Rescue.

22 Pray for the resources to enable Project Romanian Rescue to reach out to homeless people with sandwiches, hot tea, clothing and blankets.

23 Pray that the needy families who struggle through the winter months will receive food, firewood and blankets.

24 Pray that God will bring new partners and sponsors to Project Romanian Rescue as part of the strategy for 2019.

MISA HIORESCU MOLDOVA 25 Pray for God’s blessing upon Moldovan church planter, Misa, his wife, Ina and daughters, Tonea, Mihaela and Diana.

26 Pray that the children reached by the church in Ursoaia, Moldova will understand God’s Word and be drawn to Him. 27 Please pray for a fresh spiritual awakening among the residents of Ursoaia, Moldova.

28 Pray for the group of Moldovan teachers who heard God’s Word when they attended the funeral of their colleague, who was a believer and faithful church member.

— FEBRUARY 2019 — BENJAMIN MARTIN SPAIN 1 Pray for the local politicians who recently received prayer when they met with local pastors in Malaga.

2 Pray for the ten members of the mission team from Argentina as they complete their three weeks of evangelism in Malaga during February.

3 Pray for wisdom as the church follows up the new contacts made during the eight Christmas evangelistic musicals performed in six towns of the Malaga region.

SLAVKO HADZIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 4 Pray for the UK evangelistic event in Southampton where Slavko is speaking today.

5 Pray for Slavko as he takes part in the Langham Preaching seminars in Croatia and Slovenia during February.

HEART CRY / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

GAVRIL COVACI ROMANIA

15 Pray especially for the young people in the church to stay firm in their faith.

6 Pray for the week of evangelism planned for the first week of February in Tinca, Tarcea and Vașad in Romania.

16 Pray that the Bulgarian government will not bring in laws to restrict the freedoms of evangelical Christians.

7 Thank God for those who go out from Tinca, Romania to spread the gospel amongst Roma communities.

RUSLAN TELPIZ MOLDOVA

8 Pray for the group of teenagers from Tinca who are training for mission.

VASILE GRIGORITA MOLDOVA 9 Pray that many people will be transformed by Christ’s power at the church outreach evening taking place this month.

TOMISLAV DOBUTOVIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

17 Pray for all the teachers and their children from kindergartens and schools in Gotesti, who came to the church, received Christmas presents and heard God’s Word.

18 Pray for the 40 children from socially vulnerable families who attend the Day Care centre in Gotesti.

19 Please pray that the church would befriend the parents of children at the day care centre and that God would bring them to salvation.

VALERIU MUNTEANU MOLDOVA

10 Please pray for the women who attend the St Valentine creative workshop in February at Sarajevo Baptist Church.

20 Pray for the spiritual and numerical growth of the church in Tigheci.

11 Pray for all the families supported through the WinterHelp programme in Sarajevo.

21 Pray that God would overrule the obstacles presented by the local public administration officials in Tigheci.

DANIJEL RECKOVIC SERBIA

22 Pray that those in government would be God fearing and able to improve the situation in Moldova.

12 Please pray for funds to complete the 60 square metre church room build in Bojnik by March 2019.

NIKOLA ATANASOV BULGARIA 13 Pray for those who have backslidden in their faith and as members of the church in Shishmantzi, Bulgaria.

14 Pray that God would add new believers to the church in Shishmantzi.

23 Pray that Moldovans would find good jobs without being forced to migrate to other European countries.

AMANDA LOMBARD GREECE 24 Pray for the provision of larger premises to accommodate the volunteers and trainees at Threads of Hope in Athens.

ten-uk.org/pray

25 Pray that God would send enough volunteers to assist with the Threads of Hope sewing classes.

TOMISLAV DOBUTOVIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

26 Pray for each employee of Threads of Hope who is experiencing a changed way of life.

7 Pray for all those attending the outreach English Course starting in March.

27 Pray that the Threads of Hope team will deliver good quality training programmes.

28 Please pray for successful marketing and advertising of products made at Threads of Hope.

— MARCH 2019 — ANDREI GHEDEON MOLDOVA 1 Pray for the speaker and all who will attend the pastoral conference in March.

SLAVKO HADZIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 2 Pray for the evangelistic event in Cardiff where Slavko is speaking this week.

PETRE PETROV MACEDONIA 3 Pray for a new, larger church building in Shtip or for the refurbishment of the old one.

4 Pray for all those reached through the recent outreach events in Shtip.

RUSLAN TELPIZ MOLDOVA 8 Please for the outreach events in Gotesti taking place on Women’s Day Celebrations today, and that some of the women would respond and join Bible study groups.

BESA SHAPLLO ALBANIA 9 Pray that the team will show love to one another, as we pray and work together for His Kingdom.

10 Pray that the lives of the children will be transformed as they take part in the Miracle Bible Clubs in Tirana.

11 Pray that more young people will be able to benefit from attending Christian conferences organised in Albania and across the Balkans.

SERGHEI MIHAILOV MOLDOVA 12 Pray for the hundreds of young people, many from broken families, who meet weekly at the Urban Centre in Chisinau.

5 Pray for the church planting outreach events in Radovis.

13 Pray for the spiritual transformation of the young people supported by Beginning of Life, who struggle with addiction and live at risk of abuse.

6 Pray for the government and nation of Macedonia as it faces a political crisis about its future.

14 Pray for the single mothers and children living in poverty who are being supported through the Early Learning Centre in Chisinau, Moldova.

15 Pray for all those reached through the outreach events organised by the Light to the World church in Chisinau.

HEART CRY / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

16 Please pray for the young women who are learning sewing skills and finding employment through the Art Story Shop.

VJEKOSLAV MRSIC CROATIA

17 Pray that God will increase the sales of craft items made through the Art Story Shop, Chisinau.

26 Pray that the 15 new people who are regularly attending Good News Church in Split will be born again.

18 Pray for the leaders, administrators, social workers, teachers and volunteers who together support the work of Beginning of Life in Chisinau, Moldova.

27 Pray that the cost of the floor tiles at Camp Fokus will be met and that the tiles will be laid by the Spring.

19 Pray for the mentoring and educational programmes run by Beginning of Life that support rehabilitation..

RONELA CRISTIAN ROMANIA

MARIA ALZIRA ANDRADE PORTUGAL 20 Pray that the Lord would send workers to help look after the children in the Lar Homes.

21 Pray that the senior citizens who live in the Lar Homes will respond to the Gospel message each week.

22 Pray for all the Lar children and the young people who attend school, so that the Lord will give them the wisdom and motivation to do their best and succeed.

TOMISLAV DOBUTOVIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 23 Please pray for the migrant ministry, Hands of Hope, supporting the needs of refugees.

SLAVKO HADZIC BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 24 Pray for our ongoing humanitarian work as we choose new families to support in Sarajevo.

25 Pray for all those who visit the Kosevsko brdo church counselling centre in Sarajevo.

28 Please pray for the House of Hope—the first halfway house in Romania for the ladies released from prison.

29 Pray for the Bible study programmes running in Romanian prisons and especially that the prisoners will come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and Saviour.

JOVICA BACVANSKI MONTENEGRO 30 Pray for the continued growth of the church in Podgorica, Montenegro.

31 Pray for Jovica as he equips a team of new preachers in Montenegro and teaches the principles of preaching, homiletics and hermeneutics.

Please pray for the trustees as they reach a decision about the appointment of TEN’s new Chief Executive Officer by the Spring.

A second round of interviews has taken place from a strong field of excellent candidates.

PRAY FOR EUROPE

COUNTRY FOCUS:

CROATIA

C

roatia has gone through huge changes in the past 30 years, moving haphazardly from communism to democracy. The 1991 war between Croatia and Serbia resulted in thousands of deaths, terrible massacres and many refugees. Today, this beautiful country attracts millions of tourists each year to its Adriatic coastline and many idyllic islands. Tourism presents new opportunities for the 20,000 evangelical Christians. With a population of 4.4 million, nine out of ten nationals are Roman Catholic.

There are serious concerns about the widespread migration of thousands of Croatians into other EU member states. This affects many local churches, especially in the north-east of the country. Sadly, corruption and bribery remain common-place.

Pray for honesty and integrity to be restored.

Pray that Croatians will discover hope through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Give thanks that new churches are being planted on the mainland and on at least one of Croatia’s many islands.

Pray for a new generation of evangelists and church pastors.

Daily prayers online at: ten-uk.org/pray Sign up for our quarterly Heart Cry prayer diary by email at: ten-uk.org/sign-up Transform Europe Network operates across 15 European countries with around 70 partners. If you or your church wish to get involved, there are opportunities for short-term mission trips, volunteering and church partnerships.

Find out more at ten-uk.org/get-involved +44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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THANK YOU AND “AU REVOIR”

W

e said goodbye to David Thomas on 31st December when he retired after serving as a trustee for twenty-seven years. In this time David served as Treasurer then Chair until 2017.

He ensured our successful transition from a charitable trust to a charitable company in 2010 and was a fount of wisdom, knowledge and expertise.

We are so grateful for all the prayerful care and service he has brought to the work of TEN and we will miss his gentle humour and kindness. However, we are not saying goodbye but “au revoir” as we know he will continue to support the work and care for our partners. We wish him an enjoyable and well deserved retirement.

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

WHO ARE THE

ROYAL RANGERS? Dusan Beredi Bera, Serbia

Royal Rangers is a Christian ministry that uses scouting skills and outdoor adventures as a mentoring programme for children and teens. The participants and their leaders are known as Royal Rangers because they serve as scouts of the King of Kings. Founded in the USA in 1962, the Royal Rangers today is a distinguished international movement.

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he Royal Rangers has become firmly established across the Balkans over the past twenty years. We are active in Romania, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Kosovo, Bulgaria, Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia and Hungary, and we are all one team. Together we organise training for new leaders, camps, adventures, and every few years we organize a Great Balkan Camp, known as Balkanorama. By working together we can do great things—influence many children and youth in our countries.

Often we hear of a need for peace among Balkan nations. The Royal Ranger programme actually does that. Children from various countries and different

Royal Rangers

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backgrounds meet up, spend time together, get to know each other. For example, many young people from Serbia attending these camps have had their first opportunity to meet children from Albania. They come full of prejudices, even hostility, but through every camp and socializing we see them change, and they learn how to love and respect each other.

Our weekly meetings consist of games, learning new skills, adventures, a spiritual message and relationships with mentors— sometimes we meet as a whole and go on a nature adventure, and sometimes we meet in small groups we call families.

Our vision is to reach young people, to keep them in Christ and build them up so that they would take over the care for the next generation. The motto of Balkan Rangers is, “In the power of God Almighty the stronger one protects the weaker, elders care for younger, the more skilful help those who lack skills.”

TEN Partner, Dusan Beredi Bera is a National Commander for Serbia and Coordinator of the Royal Rangers work in the Balkans.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED IN

ALBANIA

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Erion Cuni with CE participants

hristianity Explored (CE) has spread far and wide since its first English edition in the late 1990s, under the ministry of John Stott and Richard Bewes at All Souls Church, Langham Place in London. However, the Albanian version of CE is barely three years old.

CE’s Prisoner Journey was translated into Albanian and launched in January 2016. Since then more than 1,000 inmates have completed the programme and many have come to faith.

General Coordinator of CE in Albania, Erion Cuni explains, “Christianity Explored is an amazing way to explain the gospel. Following the success of the Prisoner Journey, we partnered with Scott Ballantine, Adopt a Child Ministries, Ireland, to raise £23,000 to translate, publish and distribute CE materials for the general use of churches across the Balkans. Individuals and trusts responded and the funds were raised within a few months and launch plans were made.

Over three days in May 2018, more than 80 church leaders attended CE training days, held in Albania and neighbouring Kosovo. Training courses have continued and more than 250 pastors and small group leaders have been trained to run CE courses. More than 30 CE courses have already taken place with over 2,000 workbooks distributed.

More than 60 participants have come to faith in Christ and at least five more churches every month are signing up to run CE. Transform Europe Network has provided funds to enable churches in very poor areas to become involved.

My dream for 2019 is that Albania will run Christianity Explored in all the churches and that thousands of people will discover the Good News and a real love of Jesus Christ!” +44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

A NEW WAY OF GIVING –

SPONSOR A BIBLE STUDENT TEN Ambassador, Michael Buie

D

uring Autumn 2016, I found myself on a trip to visit the International School of Training and Leadership* (ISTL) in Albania. I didn’t know what I would encounter, but I was interested in what I had heard about ISTL and what the students were up to.

Fast-forward six months, and following discussions with TEN, I decided to sponsor a student at the school. Initially, it was simply a year by year decision to support a student. However, one of my primary aims was to build a two-way relationship, where the sponsorship arrangement would be rooted in prayer and mutually beneficial. I really appreciated the thought that went into selecting a good student for me to support.

Edi Kovaci is a 23 year old ISTL student who I have now known for more than three years. His vision is to reach his local village with the good news of Jesus.

He is a convert from Islam who I have watched sacrifice so much for the sake of the Gospel and those in his community.

It turned out that Edi and I have a lot in common, particularly a shared sense of humour and taste in music.

Financially, it has cost £1,000 a year to invest in Edi’s tuition and living costs for his three-year course. Beside praying for him, I have chosen to keep in regular contact and taken time to visit him each year.

It is my hope that Edi and I will continue to keep in touch and pray for each other

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Edi Kovaci, ISTL Student

for many years to come. There are other students waiting for sponsorship, so I ask anyone with an interest to contact the TEN office. * ISTL aims to give Bible teaching and skills training to pastors and church planters who want to further the work of the Kingdom of God in Albania. Currently 10% of the students are from the Church of God group with the remainder from other churches in Albania and Kosovo.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

FUNDRAISING NEWS

HARVEST FOR THE HUNGRY 2018

SUMMER CAMPS 2018

With great appreciation to UK churches and individual donors, we have raised over £25,000 toward the Harvest appeal.

Thanks to the generosity of TEN supporters we raised £7,000 enabling 345 children to attend 14 life-changing Summer Camps during 2018.

This means that during this winter and beyond:

» Love shown in action

» Hundreds of families will receive bags of food

» Great memories to last a lifetime

» Scores of orphans will get hot meals at soup kitchens

» Many children responded to the Gospel

» Dozens of frail elderly people will be helped with their meals

NATIONAL WALKS 2018 Walks took place in Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire. » 30 volunteers took part » 40 kilometers of walking and talking about TEN » £1,250 raised in sponsorship for TEN

+44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK - GIVING

Five ways to

1

give



2

Give Online As a monthly or one-off gift:

ten-uk.org/give



 Cheque

Payable to TEN and post to:

Through your bank:

Transform Europe Network 23 Apex Court Woodlands Bradley Stoke Bristol BS32 4JT

Complete the form on page 18 (or download one from ten-uk.org/give) and post to TEN

Call TEN office and use your debit or credit card:

01179 615161

3

Standing Order

4  Telephone

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TRANSFORM LIVES IN EUROPE

5  Purchase Purchase an Essential Gift from our catalogue either online or by telephone:

ten-uk.org/shop 01179 615161

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

TRANSFORMING EUROPE – SHORT-TERM MISSIONS

DO SOMETHING NEW:

CONSIDER A MISSION TRIP

D

o you want to inspire your church about what God is doing in Europe?

A team trip is a fantastic way to get people excited about international mission and also to motivate your church for mission at home.

There are many opportunities to serve; in English classes, outreach and evangelism, women’s ministry, summer camps, practical help such as soup kitchens, DIY or gardening, etc.

Every year our partners are wanting to welcome teams. Although the summer is the most popular time, there are opportunities throughout the year.

COULD YOUR CHURCH SEND A TEAM IN 2019?

A team trip is not just for young people. Our oldest participant has been 89 and our youngest 15 (with parental permission). Teams can range from three or four individuals to 12 and over. It’s always encouraging to our partners when a team goes over to help them, and always an inspiration and learning opportunity for the team members.

The main criteria is that a team has a designated team leader who can take responsibility. For a team that wants to go to mainland Europe, TEN can pair you with a suitable partner or project and provide the team with trip training beforehand and

help with a debrief afterwards. We’re here to advise and help you every step of the way.

Teams are a great first step if a church is thinking about a partnership with a church in Europe. This was the case for the Sanctuary church in Bristol who sent a team to Macedonia. Also, for the New Life Baptist Church in Northallerton who sent a small team to Romania. You can read more of their experiences on pages 6–7 and 26–27 of in this magazine.

If you are interested in sending a team to Europe to help one of our partners, please visit the TEN website for TEN Team opportunities 2019. Do get in touch and we can explore the best option for you and your church.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST EACH TEAM MEMBER? On average a trip costs £500 to £600.

For further information and to talk over the possibilities, please contact Melanie Griffiths or Ken Millwood at the TEN office: melanie.griffiths@ten-uk.org ken.millwood@ten-uk.org ten-uk.org/short-term-mission

+44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

NEW FRIENDS IN

MACEDONIA Following a meeting with TEN about Church Partnerships, Pastor Nigel Farmer, from Sanctuary Church in Bristol, took a real interest in Macedonia and Petre Petrov’s vision for church planting. And so a visit was arranged.

“Our small team of six, from Sanctuary Church in Bristol had an amazing and blessed week with our brothers and sisters in Macedonia. After being met at the airport by pastor Petre Petrov, we travelled to the town of Shtip, 65 miles south west of Skopje, and with a population of 48,000. In the evening we went to the Shtip Evangelical Church with Petre and were warmly greeted by the elders. We each shared our personal stories and testimonies, and discussed the programme for the rest of the week.

Photo: The team arrive at Shtip Evangelical Church

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“On the Sunday morning, Petre took us to the Radovis Cross on top of a hill to pray for the town, which was an amazing experience. Later, we joined the church service where Shauna, Andy and Jo led a few worship songs. Nigel shared the word and afterwards we prayed for the healing of many in the congregation. One lady gave her life to Christ.

“After the service we went for a meal.

Just as we were leaving the restaurant we were asked to pray for a man with a heart problem. Nigel and Esther prayed and he gave his life to Christ. Then the owner and his chef asked for prayer and gave their lives to Christ.

“On Monday evening Shauna and Esther met around a dozen ladies. Esther gave a talk about Martha and Mary called, Stop, Rest and Listen. We prayed and shared a series of prophetic words and pictures.

It was an amazing experience to be in the presence of women who show such faith and love for God. Surprisingly, the language difference was not a barrier.

Meanwhile, Larry took the opportunity to join Robert, Christea and Vanchie for a prison visit to meet inmates.

TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK / JANUARY – MARCH 2019

TRANSFORMING EUROPE – ONE LIFE AT A TIME

Nigel Farmer (RH) from Sanctuary Church speaks at an outreach event in the library

“On the Tuesday evening we met in the library at Shtip. After some inspiring worship, we introduced ourselves and each gave a little fact about England.

Pastor Nigel shared from the Scriptures about peace. Ten people signed a keepin-touch form and one lady gave her life to Christ. God also used Larry to share his testimony with a grieving widow.

“We went to Skopje on Wednesday for

sightseeing. We were impressed by the stories of local saint, Mother Theresa. In the evening we went to a church pastored

by Christoff. Esther and Andy shared their testimonies and we met Somerset vicar, Reverend Graham Owen from Holy Trinity church in Frome, who gave a powerful message on Nebuchadnezzar.

“On the Thursday evening we went to the town of Radovis where Petre is planting a new church. On the way to the meeting, Larry had a wonderful opportunity to share his testimony with a gentleman who was returning to prison.

During the meeting in the local library, Larry shared his testimony and Pastor Nigel preached a message. Shauna also had an opportunity to share her testimony with a young lady and to encourage her to continue to trust in God. “It was a very humbling and blessed experience to see how God used all of us and how he blessed us while we were there. We have formed a strong relationship with the Evangelical Church in Shtip and many brothers and sisters in Macedonia.”

Sanctuary Church team in Macedonia

+44 (0)117 961 5161 / www.ten-uk.org

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TRANSFORM EUROPE NETWORK

2019 CONFERENCE CONNECTED IN MISSION

BRISTOL, SATURDAY 11TH MAY 2019

St Michael’s Church Stoke Gifford, Bristol BS34 8PD Conference: 10.00am to 4.30pm (registration from 9.30am) Meet and Greet Drinks Reception: 4.30pm to 5.30pm

TICKET PRICES: £12 (Earlybird: £10 by 31st January 2019) Conference only

£20 (Earlybird: £18 by 31st January 2019) Conference and lunch

BOOKING: Online: ten-uk.org/conference Call the team: 01179 615161

GUEST SPEAKERS (TO DATE): Hervin Fushekati, Albania Sergei Mihailov, Moldova Daniel and Vera Kuranji, Serbia* * Live video link