A group of some 23 pastors and their wives from Albania and Kosova gathered in the coastal town of Durres for a seminar on the theme of “church planting in hard places.” The sessions were led by the “Church in hard places” team (Mez and Miriam McConnell and Matthew Spandler Davidson).
Subjects like what is biblical evangelism, what is a biblical mercy ministry, church planting in hard places and reaching women were all taught on and there was a very fruitful question and answer session also. Will was able to open the seminar by preaching on 2 Timothy 4:1-8 on “Preach the Word.” We also had an excellent time of prayer for one another and the churches that we serve in. It was good to know of the challenges and joys of different churches.
The teaching turned upside down virtually all that has been done and has not worked in Albania during the last 30 years and pointed us back to biblical principles. It was so good to see the primacy of the local church in missions, the biblical gospel and biblical principles for ministry being taught. The speakers pulled no punches but were also deeply encouraging for all.
The organisers, the “Way of Peace” church in Fier and Kisha “Drite” are hoping that this will be the first of many seminars like it bringing together like minded servants of God for teaching, encouragement and prayer. Please pray for the effect of what has been taught and pray too for the book co- authored by Mez McConnell called “church in hard places” which we hope to publish in the very near future!
One reply on “Church planting in hard places”
Thanks for sharing this – so encouraging to hear. Particularly the focus on God’s word and teaching it well, and very glad to hear you are able to meet together and support each other. Will keep praying…..