Fred Canaday Report: November 2004

The following is an update as to the current status of our work in Romania and Moldova.

We have conducted 4 School sessions in Fetesti during this calendar year. We are averaging around 25 students.

In Moldova we have a new class year just having started in late October, when I taught the Book of Psalms. There were more than 30 students present.

My daughter Marcia completed a Seminar to the women in Moldova on the Fruit of the Spirit in early October, with nearly 40 women in attendance.

We are in two building programs: The one in Moldova needs around $15,000 to complete all but the main auditorium. That isn’t needed at this time since we have a room to seat around 100, which is adequate for our current needs. They are finishing a room to have a “Medical Cabinet.” There are two doctors in the congregation and this gives an opportunity for ministry as well as charitable help.

The building in Fetesti has progressed very well this year. The building is now structurally at the second level. Windows are being installed and finish work is ongoing in the basement so that they can meet in this part of the building. A foundation recently gave $18,000 for this basement work with the promise of $4000 more. They are currently installing a temporary roof. Next year the intent is to get the third level up and enclosed by roof. We don’t have a current estimate for that, but it will be at least $40,000.

Ministry work is progressing very well in most areas. You’ll see by Marius and Iosif’s reports that they have had a very good year. 27 were baptized in Fetesti this year and Moldova had a total of 4 baptisms. Most of the 7 mission works attached to Fetesti are doing well. We have added two missionary helpers to this team during the past year.

Mediesul Aurit is experiencing substantial growth with reports of salvation decisions each month.

There is a Moldavian of Bulgarian heritage going into Bulgaria in December to survey that field to see if it’s feasible to open a mission point there.

Recently I visited the east central part of Romania where there is the possibility of buying a piece of property to operate a camp for young people. We are awaiting a firm price for those 4 acres. It is located in a beautiful mountainous region, but the 4 acres are flat with a fresh water spring on the property. This property has been used for a camp the last two years but only on a rental basis. All of the ministers are very excited about that possibility.

Just a couple areas of concern! Fuel prices are now in excess of $3.50 per gal in Romania. Their entry into the European Union will definitely fuel greater costs for our missionaries there, so we must be prepared to increase support soon.

There is a very real need for a van in the Mediesul Aurit ministry.

Prayerfully submitted

Fred W. Canaday- Field Director