BANGLADESH
Ministerial and Spouse Conference Inspires Participants
The Bangladesh Adventist Union Mission (BAUM) Ministerial Association held a Ministerial and Spouse Conference in Cox’s Bazar from March 2-5. Under the theme “Ministry Refocused: Family, Leadership, Mission,” Jonas Arrais, Ministerial Association secretary of the Northern Asia-Pacific Division, and Raquel Arrais, Ministerial Spouses Association director, led the meeting.
Guided by the two speakers’ practical insights, participants explored the essence of pastoral ministry, the challenges and joys of being a pastor and family, and essential elements of church growth. Attendees also reflected on effective strategies for church development and pastoral self-care. The conference also provided ample time for prayer.
A key objective of this event was to encourage and uplift pastors serving in rural and remote areas who have remained dedicated to their mission despite challenging conditions and limited financial resources. The pastors and their families said they were deeply touched by the comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Many attendees were moved to tears during the dedication service. “It was the first time someone expressed appreciation for my ministry,” several said.
BAUM president Won Sang Kim reflected on the event. “This conference has strengthened our determination and renewed our passion for ministry,” he said.
UNITED STATES
A Return to Nosoca Pines Ranch After 15 Years
In late February Maranatha’s most recent project in the United States drew 70 volunteers from 18 different states. Their destination? Nosoca Pines Ranch, a 200-acre (80-hectare) summer camp and retreat venue on the northern shore of South Carolina’s Lake Wateree. Their mission? The completion of numerous construction and maintenance projects.
“About 15 years ago we had a hailstorm come through and . . . Maranatha reroofed 22 buildings for us,” recalled Nosoca director Rick Faber. “In this type of ministry, where we have 40 buildings and people using them virtually every weekend, there’s just a lot of upkeep.”
The group reroofed a large portion of the cafeteria building, rebuilt fencing for the equestrian center, replaced rotten siding from 20 cabins, renovated a bathhouse, cut firewood, painted, and assisted the camp’s cafeteria staff. “Nosoca Pines staff were very hospitable and responsive, procuring any supplies needed in record time,” affirmed Maranatha’s project leader Susan Woods.
“It’s amazing that they would come and give of their time,” remarked Faber. “They’re flying out here on their nickel. And yet it’s the Christian template: help others. They obviously are a part of that, and so we appreciate them so much.”
PORTUGAL
ADRA Portugal Celebrates 25 Years
On February 22 the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Portugal celebrated a special milestone: 25 years of history, love, and purpose, the agency leaders reported. “The commemorative gala was a true reflection of the impact and dedication of the organization over the years,” they said.
Leaders shared that they were honored to have the presence of outstanding figures in the humanitarian agency’s history, including former executive directors Rogério Nóbrega and João Martins, as well as the current executive director, Cármen Maciel. ADRA Portugal’s current president, Júlio Carlos, also attended.
The event was enriched with musical spaces and the sharing of emotional testimonies that revived the memory of ADRA’s tireless work and mission in Portugal, the agency leaders reported. “There were moments of great enrichment and appreciation for the work that everyone has done for ADRA to become what it is today,” they shared. “We are grateful for every step of this journey and for each person who is part of our history. Together we remain committed to making a difference and furthering our purpose of love and service.”
PAKISTAN
Children’s Sabbath School Teachers Training Empowers Leaders
In February the Pakistan Union’s Southern Section conducted a Children’s Sabbath School Teachers Training in Karachi. This training aimed to equip new Sabbath School teachers with essential skills and knowledge. It focused on empowering leaders with practical teaching tools, enhancing their ability to nurture children in faith and prepare them for baptism, organizers said.
The first training phase occurred in the Hyderabad district of Karachi, where 43 young leaders from 11 churches participated and successfully received certification. These young leaders were trained in effective teaching methodologies, engaging storytelling techniques, and the importance of spiritual nurturing, organizers reported. “Special emphasis was placed on guiding children toward a personal relationship with Jesus, preparing them for baptism, and helping them understand the fundamentals of faith,” they said.
Following the success of the Hyderabad training, the program expanded to a larger group, bringing together 50 children’s ministries leaders from 18 churches for further training and seminars.
Farzana Yaqub, children’s ministries director of Pakistan Union Section, said, “The success of this training marks a significant step toward strengthening children’s ministries across the region, ensuring that young hearts are guided in faith and prepared for a lifelong journey with Christ.”
ROMANIA
ADRA Inaugurates Its 351st Social House
On February 19, in Cudalbi, Galați County, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Romania inaugurated its 351st social house, built as part of the ADRA project “Hope More Than Water.” On this occasion it was dedicated to the Lungu family: Liviu and Liliana and their two children, Ioana and Andreea.
The new housing project took place over a period of four months and eight days. The project demanded an investment of 28,064 Romanian lei (about US$4,400). The amount was covered thanks to sponsors and donors from Romania and abroad. The project also brought together a team of more than 17 volunteers, who sacrificed their time so that the Lungus’ dream could come true.
ADRA Romania executive director Robert Georgescu attended the inauguration and addressed those present. “Today’s event represents a true-life lesson for all of us involved, because, most of the time, hope is directed toward the future. But today the Lungus have present hope, because for them it’s a new beginning.”
Liviu Lungu said he found it difficult to describe what he was feeling. “Thank you for what you have done, because we can now finally feel safe and live with hope again.”