Summer 2022

And this is love, that we walk after his commandments. This is the commandment, That, as ye have heard from the beginning, ye should walk in it. (2 John 1:6)

We show our love for the Father by obeying His commandments. Likewise, John reminds us in verse 5 that we are also to love one another. Or in today’s vernacular, “Love God; love others.” Friends, this command carries even greater weight within the body of Christ. But if we find it hard to show love to those who share a common bond in Christ, how can we manifest genuine love for the lost around us (or is this somehow easier)? If this is an area of struggle in your life, pray for the Lord’s help to overcome it.

Return to the Field

We have been back in Romania since June 1, and we hit the ground running. Aside from the random tasks that need to be completed after furlough, we spent much of the month of June preparing for the arrival of Sarah Weidner. This included finding an apartment and a vehicle for her to use during the next year. The Lord graciously provided these even before she arrived, speeding the adjustment to living in a new place.

July has likewise been a busy month. One of the highlights was being a part of week-long VBS at a local Baptist church where roughly 80 children from the local and surrounding villages attended. The theme was "Stories about a King," with related lessons from Scripture. We loved the songs that were selected, and the children enjoyed singing them. Dave helped with the oldest children, while Sarah assisted with games. Ruth taught the Bible verses each day. It was very hot that week, but we came away blessed from being around the children and serving each day.


July has also been filled with preparations for our own VBS and Art Camp in Luncsoara, August 2-4. We are currently hosting Abby who will be with us through the week of VBS. We are also anticipating the arrival of Mark and Matt from one of our supporting churches who will also be helping with VBS and some projects around the church property and at home.

Family News

Prior to our departure, we were blessed to be part of Celeste’s graduation from Cedarville University on May 7 with a degree in Studio Art. Then her wedding to Benjamin Veenstra followed on May 14. Suffice to say, it was a lovely time with our sending church, our families, and friends.

Two weeks later, we celebrated Amber’s 19th birthday, and then we finished moving out of our temporary home in Cedarville. Then, we made our way to Cleveland for our return flight. We are thankful to have had one more chance to say goodbye to Dave’s family over Memorial Day weekend.

Love God, and love others as He loves us!

Dave, Ruth, Celeste, and Amber

Aid for Ukrain Continues

As the war rages in Ukraine, relief for those who have remained in the country continues. Luke has been purchasing staple items about once a month to be taken into Ukraine by a Romanian missionary friend. Dave has had an opportunity to help on two of these shopping trips. If you have not bought large quantities of items in bulk before, it can be a daunting task! If you would like to give, contact us, or visit BMM World Relief.

In our area, there continue to be around 50 refugees. Language remains a barrier for many, which limits employment opportunities as well as socialization. Fortunately, the local Baptist churches are holding weekly services in Ukrainian or Russian followed by a meal, which ensures this community is hearing the Gospel each week and having a chance to interact.

Pray for the many lives that have been upended by this war. Pray that the Gospel will be a source of strength and ultimately salvation to those who do not yet have hope of eternal life.