Summer Romanian Misson Report 2

Dana's Report - As Geoffrey and I traveled this week outside of Bucharest, we had the opportunity to meet some interesting people. On our journey into the towns in Translyvania, I had my first experience to observe and participate in a conversation about the Orthodox religion with a Romanian woman on our train. Her general opinion was that the churches often required substantial religious practices that can be repetitive, lengthy, or unclear. Some examples include having weddings and funerals that last hours and hours, constant requests for salvation and forgiveness, repeating phrases and paying priests to bless you. Just rules and more rules. Although Geoffrey had explained some of this prior to our trip, it was very beneficial to have this type of conversation to see some of the key points argued about the Orthodox faith. I feel it is important to remember when we are talking with people we need to know and be true to what the Bible says about these types of issues. Ultimately, she conceded that the world would be a better place if people showed each other love.

Although Geoffrey and I may not see what happens with this woman, it is important that we plant the seed and trust the God will be the one to and make it grow. Please pray for Romana with us.

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Geoffrey's Report - Well the week hasn't gone as we expected it to. We thought that we would dive right into teaching our classes. Instead, when we arrived we learned that the classes won't start until Monday. No worries. We spent the first part of the week helping my friends Bubba and Lavinina as they prepare for the institute. The second half of the week, we traveled into central Romania in a attempt to get to know a little more about the country and the people we will be serving. I think this has been very helpful for Dana especially. It will give her a better idea how to bring the message of Christ in a more culturally appropriate way.

We are both very excited about the World English Institute and are eager for it to start on Monday. As of this writing, we have 88 students signed up for individual tutoring. We will meet with 7 each day for an hour each. We will meet with some students on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and the others on just Tuesday and Thursday. We will meet with 3 each morning and four at night. We will have a four hour break mid-day each day to rest and/or do some touring of the city. We expect it to be hard work but we look forward to the challenge and to building relationships.

Thank you again for your prayers and emails. We are very proud to tell people here that you are partners in this ministry. If you would like to read more, I am trying to post a little something every day or two on my blog at http://wyattjourney.blogspot.com. Peace.

P.S. This is NOT a photo of Ramana.