Church in Kosovo

Sunday morning in Kosovo began with a wonderful breakfast provided by Carol Prime. Bill and Carol lead a small church and regularly disciple young Christians in Mitrovica. Although Kosovo is a predominantly Muslim nation, there is a small Christian population scattered amongst many churches. Becoming a Christian is a scary thing for many because it can be strongly objected to by family members. The Prime’s church is primarily composed of teen-aged Kosovars and some foreigners. Mr. Foote and I were privileged to share with the church this morning. I was also thrilled to be able to play guitar along with several others. I even learned a few traditional Albanian songs! Together we shared in the Lord’s Supper, an activity that always reminds me that no matter the language, culture, or custom, we all serve the same God. Below is a short video complication of the church service.

Following church and lunch, Mr. Foote and I were invited to play soccer with a group of guys at a nearby indoor soccer field. We spent an hour running up and down the field trying to keep up with the excellent Kosovo footballers.

Our first teaching session began following the soccer game at the House of Laughter. Mrs. Allen presented on the importance of effective communication from a teaching perspective and we spent a considerable amount of time fielding questions from the teachers. Mrs. Allen was remarkably flexible and adapted to challenging circumstances which included the power going on and off, lack of heat, and translation difficulties.

Tomorrow will be our first full day with the teachers (8:30-3:30). Mr. Foote will be leading a session on lesson planning while Mrs. Allen and I assist. Here are some specific things that we would appreciate prayer for:

1. Clear and smooth translation.
2. Power that stays on.
3. A comfortable atmosphere that isn’t distracting (lack of central heating in the buildings makes the rooms very cold which is not good for periods of focused attention).
4. Lessons which are immediately useful to the teachers.
5. Opportunities to share Christ and witness to the teachers.
6. A safe and blessed first Independence Day for the nation of Kosovo.
7. The work and outreaches of the various missionaries throughout Kosovo.