Spring 2022

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)

As Jesus prepares His disciples for His ensuing arrest and subsequent crucifixion, He desires to reassure them that these events must take place to fulfill the prophecies of the Scriptures and, thus, ensure that salvation be made available to all mankind. Friends, these words also serve to reassure us that the tribulations and conflicts we face in our world today because of sin will not ultimately defeat us. Our Lord Jesus Christ, who conquered death by rising from the dead, has also overcome sin and the powers of this world.

Final Weeks of Furlough

These final weeks of our furlough have been full as Ruth’s mom moved to Spokane, while Dave’s dad re-married, moved into an apartment, and put his home on the market. We are eagerly awaiting Celeste’s graduation from Cedarville University May 7, followed by her wedding on May 14. God has greatly blessed us to be a part of these special family times.

One of the activities Ruth enjoys the most during our furloughs is the opportunity to spend time with ladies in their churches and to share our ministry with them. This furlough Ruth was asked to speak at five ladies’ meetings throughout Ohio to give more insight into the uniqueness of ministry among the Roma. She was also pleased to share several new ministry opportunities that she will be involved with once we return to the field. Special thanks to those who invited Ruth to speak.

War in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine has been on our hearts over the past two months. We are frequently asked how this is affecting Romania and whether we will be able to return. The answer to the first question is that Romania has become a hub for many refugees who want to arrive in Western Europe where they may have friends or relatives already established or where they plan to settle long-term. As far as the war affecting our return to Romania, we are still making plans to leave the U.S. on May 31. Please pray for peace and that we can return as scheduled.

Help for Ukrainian Refugees

One group of refugees that we had a part in helping was a group of orphans and their caretakers who fled Ukraine in the early days of the war and are now staying indefinitely in Romania near us. Several local Baptist churches are housing them. You can imagine what this must be like to abruptly resettle for an indefinite time in a new country where very few people know your language. Praise God that these churches are holding services for them each Sunday so they can hear the Gospel in their language! Pray for opportunities for us to serve as we return. Above, the Ukrainian children perform at Easter.

Praising the One we serve Who has overcome the world!

Dave, Ruth, Celeste, and Amber

Help for Ukrainian Refugees (cont.)

With the outbreak of war in Ukraine, aid for refugees has become an immediate concern. Our team was able to partner with Baptist Mid-Missions World Relief to purchase necessary aid for distribution in Ukraine. Several missionary friends, both from Romania and the U.S., have been making routine trips to the border with Ukraine or into Ukraine to deliver this aid. If you would like to give toward this effort, visit the BMM World Relief website, or contact us.