I would like to begin this report by mentioning that on October 6 it was my birthday — and the meeting held on October 9–11 at the Alba Iulia and Negrilești Center was, for me, the most beautiful gift I could have received from the PIEI Romania Committee.
The sweet fellowship we shared as missionaries, and the things we learned together, led me to realize that there are many aspects of reading the Word of God that I had not fully understood before — particularly regarding Observation, Application, and Prayer.
Brother Timotei always surprises us in a good way, ensuring that every time we meet, we learn something new.
For me, it was a completely new experience to read a verse from God’s Word, then move directly to Observation and Application, without first making an interpretation. I came to understand that, too often, we rely on interpretations we have heard from others, whereas this method encourages us to be as original and authentic as possible in our study.
The books we received, written by Greg Ogden — “Discipleship Essentials: Your Life in Christ” and “Micro: A Guide for the Transformation and Multiplication of Jesus’ Disciples through Micro-Groups” — are truly valuable resources.
Soon, I plan to start a group of four young people, as I received four copies of the book. But first, I want to study them carefully myself, to understand them well and then apply what I learn.
At the same time, Brother Timotei encouraged me not to stop planting churches, reminding me that discipleship plays a vital role in ministry.
This vision of making disciples was also shared by Brother Cornel Ștef, who often spoke to me about the importance of discipleship. Now, by God’s grace, I also have professional material to work with, and I pray that the Lord Jesus will help me achieve this goal.
Something new I’d like to share: I took Marius with me to the orphanage, and he purchased 15 caps and 15 skirts for the children. Now, Brother Mike and Brother Timotei have given me 15 T-shirts, which we keep at church — and the children wear them during services. I’m sending a photo for now of the skirts and caps, and when I go to Tigveni, I’ll bring the T-shirts we received from the Alba Iulia Center. This was Marius’s idea, and it has brought much joy!
I’m also happy to report that we’ve completed the bathroom for the widow and her child! Praise the Lord Jesus, who opened the necessary doors for this construction — which includes a room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. The family has already moved in! This project has become a beautiful testimony to the entire village. Though the work was challenging, all the glory belongs to God.
Monday is my only free day, which gives me time to write this report. Other than that, we continue to make ourselves available to God, doing as much as we can for His glory. I know for certain that everything we do here is recorded in Heaven, and one day we will receive the reward that the Lord Jesus has prepared for us. Until then, may we continue to pray for one another.
I especially enjoy remembering before the Throne of Grace the following:
• The PIEI Romania Committee,
• Brother Timotei, who brought Brother Gigi Dobrin, a teacher from Mediaș, to teach us from this manual,
• Brother Mike and his wife, Sister Alis, who served us with delicious food — I believe they both worked very hard, and may the Lord Jesus reward them abundantly,
• Brother Jenu and Sister Violeta — we continue to pray for their health.
We also lift in prayer the PIEI USA Committee:
Brother Cornel Ștef and his wife Gabi, who is currently suffering — may the Lord strengthen them, as we know how difficult it is to raise funds for us missionaries;
Sister Rodica and Brother Alex, who faithfully manage the accounting and funds — may the Lord repay them as He sees fit;
Brothers Dragomir, Walter, and David, along with their wives — may the Lord protect them and grant them good health.
We are deeply grateful to our wonderful sponsors:
Brother Ed and Sister Daiana, Brother Matei Scheau and Sister Naomi, and all others who contribute in one way or another.
May God reward them richly and bless their homes with His grace.
I conclude with this verse from 2 Corinthians 9:13:
“Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God…”
Traian Chilau – PIEI Romania Missionary
