This past two weeks in Albania have been filled with debrief, additional training, and ATL (ask the Lord). Albania has been this beautiful adventure the Lord is taking me on where I get to wake up and see what he has for me. My squad has been blessed tremendously to be staying in this hostel near a castle in the mountains. Literally like a movie! Ministry has been a lot different this month than the last. Most days I wake up, train in the mornings, and have free afternoons to hang out with the shop keepers in the bazaar, and tavern keepers.
These people are incredible kind, generous, and relational. I really enjoy seeing their faces every day. On our last day in Kruje, Kirsten, Hannah and I were able to talk about our faith and share the gospel with this sweet shop keeper (Alice*) that we befriended. Her mother poured us the most refreshing hand squeezed pomegranate juice that I have ever had and we spent many hours talking about life, faith, and family. Next, we visited an artisan and rug weaver; who took us in as her own daughters and taught us how to weave magnificently beautiful rugs. Elanor* had a hand wound from weaving and she allowed me to pray for her, before kissing us on the forehead to say a final goodbye. My last goodbye was with a tavern owner named Annette* who has been so kind and attentive to my food restrictions. I wrote her a note, with scripture verses thanking her for her friendship and beautifully welcoming smile.
My team is splitting up for 17 days to do ATL in the coastal region of Vlore. We spent many days last week praying about where we felt God leading us. We hope to find a city to plant in and see what kind of ministry God has for us. The most exciting announcement is that we will be likely extending our stay in Albania for another month! Leadership is looking to securing a host to partner with. I am so thankful the Lord has us in this beautiful hidden gem of a country and that we get to continue to love these people who have found a special place in my heart.
Some big ways you can support my team and I is in prayer:
- For the people of Albania to develop a hunger and a deep desire for God.
- For the economy of Albania, jobs are very difficult to find and the pandemic has really crippled the tourism industry which is a source of income for many Albanians.
- For God to secure us a host to partner with and for ministry this month to be fruitful.
- For more long term missionaries to come and minister to these people and tend to all the seeds that have been planted.
*Names have been changed to protect privacy
