The Buerges Go to Albania: OCMC Albania Youth Mission Team 2022
My kids and I are travelling to Albania with a mission team to serve children at an orphanage in the coastal town of Durres. Albania is undergoing a massive economic and religious transition.
Throughout the years, this country has been ruled by communist and socialist dictators, such as Envor Hoxha, forcing labor and Stalinist principles upon those who lived there. In this period, Albania was one of the most difficult countries to flee and was the first country in the world to proclaim itself an “atheist state.” Even after the fall of communism in Albania in 1991, the citizens of Albania were still endangered by counter-revolution attempts, secret police, and labor camps. Though the leaders and government behind such inhuman acts have been disbanded, Albania and its inhabitants are still healing from the wounds of a sharp and cruel history. Many still cling to atheism, many still are without a good source of income, and many still are without hope.
This is why we wish to join the Orthodox Christian Mission Center's team, traveling to this beautiful yet secluded land in order to help children in need. We hope to spread joy throughout the Home of Hope Orphanage and build up their courage and faith in the Lord. The orphanage, located in the Shen Vlash monastery, is sheltering many children, both those without guardians and those who suffered neglect, abuse, or economic hardship. The orphanage strives to connect the children with their remaining relatives and keep them in contact as much as possible in order to secure their familial roots and help them thrive. The team will be hosting a youth camp that will include many different classes, projects, and even an a day trip to the beach!
Pray for us! We are also grateful for any monetary gifts you may be able to share to provide funding for airline tickets, application fees, and items for the orphanage. In total, my son (Silas), my daughter (Charlotte) and I must raise $7,500 by June of this year to cover our costs. Thank you for your consideration - every little bit counts!
Your prayers and gifts will change lives - we hope you will consider donating to this cause! For those who have already thoughtfully donated to our past mission, please know your funds have been held in waiting for this trip. In case of a delay or cancellation of our trip, we will also hold the money in waiting for other opportunities.
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” -Luke 6:38
Achievements
I Made a Difference!
I supported this event with a personal donation.
Personal Progress:
of Goal
$1,845
Raised
$2,000.00
Fundraising Honor Roll
Mrs. Lois E. Pappademos
Dave Balzer
Bryan and Katie RIchardson
Mr. David Mastin
Mrs. Deborah D. Jantz
Mrs. Elizabeth Buerge
Mr. Jeff Sparks
Ryan and Rachel Mohrmann
Steven Wilson
One way the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is bridging the distance between Churches is with the utilization of Orthodox MissionTeams. Mission Team bridge the distance between Orthodox Christians in North America and communities around the world, establishing bonds of love, support and mutual learning. Teams accomplish this by:
- Presenting a visible expression of the love, unity, and support;
- Sharing the teachings of the Orthodox Faith and providing labor; and
- Increasing awareness of overseas Orthodox churches and the unending mission efforts of the Church.
OCMC Teams respond to the needs around the world -- send disciples and changing lives. We thank you for being a part of this awesome ministry!
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