July 2020 Prayer Letter

We know the Bible tells us to be thankful. Sometimes, humanly speaking, it is easier to do so than at other times. In spite of the current circumstances, we have much for which to thank God.

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Since our last prayer letter, much has changed. Though the numbers here continue to rise and put Moldova as one of the highest European countries with cases per capita, we are thankful that things have “opened up” over the past month. We thank the Lord that no one in our family, team, or church has fallen ill from this.

CHURCH SERVICES
After the lock down quarantine was lifted, services were only allowed outdoors, but due to several issues, we were unable to do this. We made plans to go and visit the believers individually on Sundays. We sang, prayed, and gave a short challenge from the Bible. The widows especially rejoiced to have visitors and to spend some time together.
A couple of weeks later, the Moldovan government allowed churches to meet indoors as long as specific guidelines were met. With each family group being 2 meters apart, having body temperature checked upon arrival, and all wearing masks, we were able to start having services together again after three months of quarantine.

REMODEL PROJECT
Since we were not using the rental for services, we had decided to give a much needed new coat of paint to the rooms. Ironically, after we decided to start this project, the government declared we could start meeting indoors in a week. Not wanting to miss out on the first possibly Sunday together again, we worked all week and were able to meet again on Sunday, June 7th. We thank the Lord that we have such good landlords for our church rental. Not only did they not charge us for an entire month during the quarantine in Soroca, they also offered to reimburse us for the money spent on the remodeling project.

NEW DOORS OPENING
We thank the Lord for the opportunities God is opening up for sharing the Gospel to the lost and discipling believers. Sometimes the doors do not remain open very long, but as long as the door is open, we desire to walk through it.
I have several right now that I am meeting or soon to be meeting with. Stephanie also has a couple women she is working on. A 15 year old boy who used to come to our VBS and ESL classes has recently been coming over to our house to spend time with Caleb. This past weekend, I began witnessing to this boy’s father. Please pray for us to have boldness, compassion, and wisdom as we seek to lead others to Christ and make disciples for Him.

FAITHFUL SUPPORTERS
We thank the Lord for you and our other faithful supporters. We have been humbled and encouraged by the emails you have sent us, letting us know you are praying for us. Some have asked how we are doing and if we have any needs. We thank the Lord also for the financial support that we currently have. While it may change down the road if things grow more difficult, we are thankful for the Lord’s provisions right now.

GARDEN
This year, though not without big problems with insects and diseases, has been one of the best garden years for us thus far. The children have been a big help in keeping the weeds at bay and helping to harvest the fruits and vegetables. I love seeing them in the cherry trees having a good time picking (and eating) the harvest.

SARAH BODALY
Though this is sad news for us as a team, we are thankful for all Sarah Bodaly has done for the ministry here the past 4 years. Lord willing (this is really important to say these days!), she will be transitioning to a new phase of life and ministry in the States this August. Her love for ministering to children and those hurting has been so evident and will be a great asset for what God has in store for her. Please pray for us as we adjust to ministry without her this fall and for her as she prepares for the big move.
Thank you for your prayers and support, even through these difficult times.