Pastor Ermal, Nertila, Emanuel, and ?

Two years ago on our blog we featured the Gjermeni family while serving in the small rural village of Gorre.  How exciting it is to see the results of prayer and the ministry of these faithful followers of Jesus.  How gratifying it is to have spent this past Sunday worshiping with newly designated Pastor Ermal.

Ermal and his family are living in the apartment that we previously set up and lived in during our six month mission two years ago.  To visit them there was truly like coming home.  The Gjermenis are doing well, but they are experiencing many struggles.  Life is harsh for most Albanians.  Jobs are scarce, especially in rural areas. 

    

Pastor Ermal and Nertila are working hard to evangelize the village of Gorre. They focus on youth, as the adult population is very resistant to our Christian faith.  They also work closely with rural churches of many denominations to share the Gospel and to meet physical needs (food, medical care, etc.) of hurting village people.  There is no work (paying job) for Ermal, and the small church family is unable to offer any financial support.  They currently receive $100/month from a Dutch Christian group.  Both Nertila and Ermal are taking Bible classes, and much of the $100 pays their tuition.

Nertila is pregnant, due to deliver sometime in March.  Her health is at risk, and medical care is limited.  They live at the end of the village water line and are without water many days.  An old washing machine is no longer working, so Nertila must wash out clothing by hand, when water is available.  Of course, frequent power outages remain problematic also.  Soon there will be baby diapers to contend with. 

A new well could be drilled for around $2000.  A new washing machine would run about $500.  Many people suffer throughout the world, and many are far worse off than Pastor Ermal's family.  However, what a blessing it would be for them to be able to rely on a clean source of water and the means to clean their clothes.  Their hearts are devoted to our Lord, and they remain grateful to Him for all He does provide.  Please pray for these dear ones.

    

 

In the photos you see the Gjermeni family; our gathering around their lunch table; Ermal and Aurora, who pastors another small village church nearby; and the guys hanging out in front of the church...with cake.