Building in Brasov

Wendy and I so enjoyed the privilege of gathering with hundreds of enthusiastic believers, for a conference in the ancient and beautiful city of Brasov in the mountainous north of Romania. Driven from Bucharest airport, in the flat southern part of the country, eventually snow capped mountains came into view as the winding road began to gain height.

Brasov itself, one of Romania’s largest cities, had changed noticeably since my last visit ten years earlier. More cars were evident as well as the Romanian equivalent of ‘Boris Bikes’ lined up in the large city square. Warm spring weather drew crowds into the streets and the square where many open air cafes flourished.

The Spirit Filled Church
The conference, held in a lovely modern hotel, took its title from my recently translated and published ‘The Spirit Filled Church’, and our preaching essentially followed related themes.

We were delighted from the first day, when we saw many healed and crowds coming forward, to receive the laying on of hands for empowering from the Holy Spirit.

Four sessions a day meant a crowded program but it was good to grab time to visit the impressive building that the believers are constructing for their church to serve the local community. About two thirds constructed, it would be great to see a further release of finance to complete what will be such a significant advance to the Kingdom of God in Romania.

The team, led by David Holden, included friends from the Netherlands as well as Hastings and East Grinstead, and conference delegates had gathered from many parts of Romania as well as some from Bulgaria.

Impressive godly elders and a gifted band led the meetings excellently and interpretation of the preaching was superb. Friendships and partnerships in the Gospel were strengthened during out times together. A crowded lunch in the home of one of the elders, and a packed, enthusiastic Sunday morning service brought our visit to a conclusion.

A nation, not long ago held in frightening subjection to Ceausescu’s totalitarian authority, is enjoying a growing freedom that only the gospel can ultimately bring.

Lets keep praying for and encouraging our friends, as they make Jesus known to their friends and glorify God in this beautiful country. I thank God for the progress being made, by the various teams, scattered around the world that now make up Newfrontiers.