We were recently in Bulgaria to renew some old ties and see what the Lord would have us do in this former communist society. Bulgaria has changed in many ways since we were there helping Kosovo refugees from the war in the 1990’s. One thing that hasn’t changed is the poverty in some of the villages. What impressed us the most was how The Church of God In Bulgaria is developing its church in areas that have been overlooked by many. 

We visited a gypsy village called Samakov where a church has literally sprung out from the building that was the local trash dump. The church emptied that building and began having services a little more than ten years ago. Today, it is literally bursting at the seams. We visited the church for a Sunday evening service of over 1200 people in attendance. We were told others were discouraged that they literally could not fit in the door. They were seating people on the stage, the stairs to the balcony, and anywhere else they could physically be able to participate. 
 
This area is one of the poorest in Bulgaria, but people are flocking to the church. It was a place of fighting between families before the church came. The scene has been drastically changed. So, why am I telling you about all of this? Our help is needed. Could they do it on their own? Probably in time, but what if we were capable to help them now and didn’t? Can we really look away? There are programs established, but they cannot keep up with the need. They need help with food and supplies. Children need sponsors so they can read and write. The building needs to be expanded. God is moving in this place, why not be a part of it. Consider how you can partner with us today to make an everlasting change in the life of the children and families of this place.

Mission Team Members were:  Linda A. Greene, RN Ph.D., President & CEO of ISOH/IMPACT, Bob Lalonde, Vice President and Renee Lalonde, Board Member