February 3, 2005
During the past twelve years, more than 1,100 Albanians have been baptized into Christ, most of them from Muslim backgrounds. Churches have been established in eleven Albanian cities and in Prizren, Kosova.
For approximately eight years, Bill Morgan of Loudon, TN has been conducting leadership training classes in Tirana once or twice a year. Consequently, the church in Tirana is strong and is led by Albanians. Bill is doing a great job, and God is blessing the church through him.
The time has come, however, to start a training school for all Albanians—one in which future church leaders can study full time or part time. Initially, the classes will be taught in English, and the school will accept students from all nations.
The missionaries are gradually leaving Albania. Brent Parr left Fier last summer. Pete Hodge is leaving Elbasan in May. Kevin and Allison Morrill are leaving Pogradec in June. Increasingly, church leadership is falling into the hands of Albanians.
The need for informed, well trained nationals is critical. If the churches in Albania and Kosova are to survive, thrive, and plant other churches, they must be led by Albanians who know the scriptures and are able to share the Good News with others.
We are happy to announce that WEI, Sunset International Bible Institute, and the Adams Blvd. Church of Christ in Bartlesville, Oklahoma are forming a partnership. SIBI is organizing the school and developing the curriculum. The Adams Blvd. church is sponsoring Steve and Deborah and providing about half of their personal support. I have agreed to raise funds for operating expenses, classroom space, and food and lodging for the students.
Would you or your congregation like to sponsor a student at $250 a month? Would you help train preachers and church leaders for churches in Albania and other countries?
For more information about this opportunity to train leaders who will plant churches throughout the world, please call Dick Ady at 503-661-0348 or email him at weiady@aol.com.
