Praises – Rejoice with us!

v Last month we praised the Lord for allowing 2 Russian and 2 Ukrainian coworkers to receive visas to come to America to visit churches. Once again we praise God for the opportunity they had to visit literally scores of U.S. churches during April and to share what God is doing in their homelands. The special offerings received will go directly to the projects they presented. Praise God for them!

v     As soon as temperatures in Ukraine warmed, believers in Desna began the labor of removing rubble and preparing to renovate the vacant building they purchased in December. Just as in the book of Nehemiah, these brethren may not have all the funds needed, but they certainly have a heart to work!

v     This year BIEM is especially thanking the Lord for 25 years of this ministry’s existence. When we began as a shortwave radio preaching ministry in 1981, we had no idea what vast opportunities God would provide within a few short years! Our workers will commemorate this anniversary year at special meetings in the Crimea in September.

v     In Tandarei, Romania, Iulian Stoian writes this note of praise for the growth in faith of the believers in Slobozia. “We are very encouraged to see that in this small group even the newborn believers understood the importance of sharing the Gospel with their friends and joyfully help in this effort.”

v     The first-ever baptism (six people) for our church planter in Ternopil, Ukraine, was a great encouragement to all those present on April 16. How exciting it is to see the nucleus of yet another young church forming!

Prayer – Pray with us!

v     On May 6, missionary Tim Smith marries Luda Lutay in Bila Tserkva, Ukraine. They would be pleased to have the support of God’s people as they begin their life of joint ministry together.

v     The camping season will soon be on us. Fred Canaday reports, “We have raised enough money for three weeks of camp; we need to raise another $4,500 to have six weeks of camp” [in Romania]. The children’s camps in Russia and Ukraine likewise need at least $25,000. Please pray for these needs.

v     Dr. Ron Brewer, who shoulders a huge portion of BIEM’s load in training nationals, is suffering renewed pains from an auto accident that occurred years ago. He writes, “I am suffering pain like I have not had for about twenty years. I have had some treatments, but am not sure they are working. Pray that I can find some relief, and the strength to work as necessary on this upcoming trip.”

v     The church in Mediesul Aurit, Romania, experienced severe ceiling damage due to melting snows. Repairs will cost about $5,000. Please pray about this need as well.