One of the greatest challenges for a local church pastor is to be accepted by their community. Between politics and sometimes the opposition of the authorities, a pastor might find himself battling for a place to serve. 

However, with faith, dedication, and courage, it is possible to gain the trust of those authorities. It takes kindness, perseverance, and steadfastness to show others that you are not an enemy, but instead a blessing and example, as you show the love of Christ to others. 

“I want to share with you an example of faith, dedication, and courage that is a true light for all of us.” Pastor Andrei, in the story below, has been that example. Through his continued faithfulness and love for his community, he has gained the trust and respect of the leaders. Instead of battling for his place at the table, Andrei quietly and lovingly built relationships with those in authority, and helped others in need. Because of his faithfulness, his church in Moldova is now regarded differently. People are hearing the Gospel, and seeing it lived out in the lives of Andrei and the people who attend his church. People in authority are becoming more open to the Gospel message and lives are changing. 

Standing for truth can sometimes be very difficult, yet with God’s courage and strength, we can do all that He asks of us with peace and joy in our hearts. Please continue to pray for Andrei and his family as they minister to the people in their community. To God be the glory!

Pray for those in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and dignity.
(1 Timothy 2:2) 

I want to share with you an example of faith, dedication, and courage that is a true light for all of us. Andrei, a pastor in the city of Călărași, is a man with a big heart, not only for the Lord, but also for the local authorities and leaders of this city. 

Together with his wife and three children, they have served with great love and dedication for 15 years, and their life is a living example of how an authentic relationship between the church and the authorities can be built, for the good of the entire community. Pastor Andrei is known throughout the city, being respected by the mayor, councilors, doctors, police officers, and even firefighters. Year after year, he organizes events that bring these influential groups together and proclaims the Gospel to them. Courage and trust in God helped him overcome every barrier, and today the authorities have an excellent opinion of the local Baptist church and all those who attend it. It is a clear sign that, through patience and love, the hearts of the authorities have also opened to the Gospel, and things are changing for the better. 

The year 2024 was a remarkable year for Călărași, with numerous public events organized by various churches in the city. Day camps with over 300 children, a Christmas show with a symphony orchestra, and special programs on June 1 brought a lot of people together to celebrate Christian values. These achievements are the fruit of a common effort and an extraordinary spiritual progress that took place in this city and throughout Moldova. 

Just 15 years ago, Baptist believers were persecuted and faced many obstacles. Today, however, things have changed for the better, and the authorities are open and recognize the efforts of the church. However, there are still places where conversion to the Baptist faith faces difficulties and pressures, but the state no longer puts obstacles—on the contrary, it supports the initiatives of believers. 

The Lord is working powerfully in the life of Andrei through his special mission to bring together local authorities with the Word of God. His wife, a medical provider, dedicates her life to saving people’s bodies, and Pastor Andrei dedicates himself to bringing the news of salvation and spiritual salvation through Christ. It is a work full of wisdom, patience, and gentleness, as the Scripture commands: Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16). 

I encourage everyone to pray for our local authorities, that God may give them wisdom and bless them with an open heart for the good of all citizens. May the works of Andrei and other brothers and sisters be a continuation of this spiritual progress and peace in our city and throughout the country.