The Oregon Trail

This last weekend, God opened up the door for us to visit some wonderful people up in Oregon. We were invited to attend a "Focus on Albania" Sunday at First Baptist Church of Eugene. We were blessed beyond our expectations.

We were met at the Portland airport by Al and Margaret Palfanier, a wonderful couple who spent many years working in Brazil. They were kind enough to let us spend several nights with them and borrow their car to travel down to Eugene. We met Larry and Dana in Eugene at the Bauer's home. The Bauer's used their gift of hospitality tremendously by throwing us a grand BBQ party. We were told the global care team was coming. We were expecting a few couples, but the people just kept streaming in. I think there were over 20 people there!

We spent the night at camp Harlow, which is next to First Baptist's church campus. What a joy to see God blessing this congregation with a new building and a booming camp ministry. We woke up to a whirlwind day of ministry and meetings. We shared our story to several Sunday School classes and were able to make some great connections with people who have already been to Albania. We met many people who helped build the church in Korcha.

We spent the evening battling the rain as we drove back to Portland. The next day, Monday, we were able to make another great connection with a sweet couple in Portland. That evening was our first official "dessert night." We were invited by Larry and Dana to share our interest in Albania to some of their friends from Portland. This was a special time. Many people in the room have been following Larry and Dana's ministry in Brazil and Albania. We were encouraged by their faithfulness and their interest and concern for us. We had a wonderful time telling them our story and having fellowship with them.

We left Portland praising God for his faithfulness and sovereign grace. We kept thinking the trip to Oregon was an ideal way to start this season of support raising and partner development.