The Power of Care

Transform Europe Network is a Christian organisation that is passionate about seeing lives transformed through the work of our indigenous partners in Eastern Europe and the Balkans. This story, which you can also read in our latest Connect magazine, reflects on a recent trip to Romania.
 
The death of a family member, children with severe disabilities, terminal cancer and unemployment are some of the circumstances we encountered as we spent time with the CASA and Emanuel Hospice teams. Monika and Nelly from CASA enter a home with a smile and friendly conversation. It is as if hope has entered the building. We listen, a food parcel is given, we ask questions, and pray together.

The following day, with Emanuel Hospice, we watch Dr Beni and nurse Florentina carefully find the fractured veins of a cancer patient to give pain relief. They are so gentle. It is a difficult task, yet they succeed. At one point, doctor and nurse break into a hymn. Hazel and I try to join in. We finish in prayer.

A couple of days later we are with Gavril and Aghi Covaci in the Roma village of Tarcea. We visit the church, which TEN has helped fund. Gavril tells us of a desire to provide more taps for the village. Currently there is just one. He is also concerned that children are not getting the education they need. He wants to set up a classroom in the church building in the coming year.

In each of these vignettes there is a sense that each of TEN’s partners are being the caring hands and feet of Jesus. The care given and love shown has been physical, spiritual and psychological. It was wonderful to see.

   

---

Prayer requests:

• Thank God for the wonderful care our partners give in difficult circumstances.
• Pray that God will sustain each of our partners in their demanding roles.
• Pray for provision for CASA, Emanuel Hospice and Pastor Gavril’s work.

If you would like to find out more about the work of Transform Europe Network, including how you can get involved, click the link to our website: www.ten-uk.org.