Article ONE
Helping The Visually Impaired
Recently a cry for help came from Moldova, to help with a ministry to visually impaired people in Balti and surrounding areas. Sadly, many poor people there have added difficulties to cope with, like blindness, or bad cataracts with little hope of surgery. Funds have been sent and many have been blessed.
Just before last Christmas a special meeting was held at the Ark Church in Balti, attended by about 100 people with visual impairments, as well as some of their helpers. Christian songs were sung; testimonies and preaching followed and then large bags containing essential foods and hygiene products were distributed. Many requested that, if possible, such meetings might continue.
Maria Belevantseva, Chairperson for the Visually Impaired in Balti, thanked the Ark Church and made special reference to SGA.
She said:
“What a joy it is to have such a celebration! It feels so good to gather and encourage one another and hear the good words from the pastor about the love and hope we find in God. We have been asking our local authorities for such a meeting! We didn’t want gifts or food, just a place to have fellowship and find some encouraging words. But they never replied to our requests. But you saw our need and met it! Praise God!
Unfortunately, visually impaired people in our society are often forgotten and left alone with their problems. We feel lonely and forgotten. But so long as we have people like you, we have hope!”
There are many miracles in the Bible, including Jesus giving sight to the blind. What a privilege to have on our hearts those whom Jesus helped. May SGA’s support cause many to think about their spiritual darkness and turn to the light of Christ for salvation.
Article TWO
Helping Widows in Moldova
We praise God for the way in which the Widows Ministry has expanded in Moldova. Since its inception more widows than ever are being supported. Presently, assistance is provided for hundreds of widows in many localities in Moldova. SGA’s Regional Coordinator, Peter Mihalchiuk, explains how support is given.
1. Through special widows’ meetings where we distribute food bags and make lunch. During these meetings, there is singing, testimonies and preaching. Besides Christian widows, unbelieving widows are invited, and in this way, we build bridges to their hearts to lead them to God.
2. In the form of firewood or coal for heating their homes. This past winter has been very cold, and gas prices have risen more than twice. Some widows literally get sick because of the cold. Many young people from the church are involved in this ministry. Some church members bring coal and chop wood.
3. To assist some widows buy necessary medicines. Due to covid related restrictions, it is increasingly difficult to get to hospital, so, following their consultation with a doctor we help pay for prescriptions so they can be treated at home.
4. To give help in the payment of bills for electricity, water, and gas, which may otherwise be turned off.
In partnership with those who facilitate this ministry, SGA continues to ensure that not only are physical needs addressed, but also the spiritual needs of widows. As Peter concludes: ‘Our missionaries visit these people and evangelize them and encourage them in their difficulties.’