Stocks Report - Ministry among the Roma

"Mad" Scientist Visits Ruth School

2012-01-25T17:33:00.001+02:00

Dr T, Mad Scientist, and her assistant, Dr St, set up their "We Love Jesus" laboratory in the cafeteria of the Ruth School this week. Dr T uses science experiments to show God's love and teach Biblical lessons.

In chapel today, Dr T told the story of David and Goliath, with a little help from Ruth School students. She explained though David was young and small he had great strength and courage because God was with him. Then to illustrate the point Dr T and Dr St did an experiment involving Diet Coke and Mento candy. Let's just say it was explosive! The kids were cheering, even the ones on the front row that had Diet Coke dripping from their noses.

Dr T closed chapel by stressing that fact that there is no need to feel powerless. When you follow God you have a great strength to call upon no matter your size or age. Dr St read the verse from Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."

Gypsy Smith School - January 2012

2012-01-20T12:07:00.001+02:00

What a way to start the new year! 25 Roma leaders from across Romania came to Bucharest for a week of training. Since the Ruth School students were still on winter break, it was a quiet week for studying, contemplation, and accordion playing!

Our professors for the week were Dr Bruce Gentry and Dr Josh Stowe from Missouri. They were accompanied by Harold Phillips, Coordinator for CBF MO.

The highlight of the week was the Tuesday night worship service led by the GSS students and the Thursday night graduation recognition.

These men are learning what it is to be a leader and then taking that information back to their ministry setting to put it to practical use. Please pray for God's blessing on their lives.

And... Thank you CBF MO!

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-01T16:08:00.002+02:00

We planned a quiet new year celebration. After seeing a movie Ralph wanted to watch a basketball game and I was reading a good book. It was going to be an early evening. That is until the clock struck midnight and then the noise was deafening! The dark winter sky was lit up with bright colorful explosions. The Romanians celebrate with fireworks that rival or even surpass our 4th of July shows. As Ralph and I watched through our living room window we noticed up and down the street curtains were thrown back and others were enjoying the fireworks too. The bright lights surrounded our buildings and we could hear lots of shouting of "La Multi Ani!" (Happy New Year). It was a great way to ring in 2012.

We want to thank you for your support this past year and we look forward to the wonderful things God will do in 2012.

Silent Night

2011-12-25T10:30:00.000+02:00

As Ralph and I walked through the park on Christmas Eve we were discussing the church service to be held that evening. In our Romanian church it is typically a time for the children's program. It has been our family tradition to go to church on Christmas Eve and kids are cute in any culture so we had decided to attend. However, I said to Ralph, "I really miss those Christmas Eve services where we sing the traditional songs, hear the Luke scripture of Christ's birth, and end with the church in darkness singing "Silent Night" as the ripple of candles being lit goes across the room.

Personally, I think God knew what my heart needed. The children were great and the youth choir also sang beautifully. We sang a few traditional hymns, although in Romanian, I knew the words and sang in English. (not sure it was worshipful for those around me. :) Then just as the leader got up and announced the last song the electricity went out. He said, "Let's sing anyway." As the words of "Silent Night" were heard the congregation began to pull out their cell phones and the lights rippled across the sanctuary. It was a beautiful moment! "Silent Night, Holy Night..."

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T15:13:00.001+02:00

Together in Romania at Christmas

Our family wishes you a blessed Christmas as we celebrate the birth of our Lord!

Thank you Anna!

2011-12-16T20:25:00.001+02:00

Last week we said good-bye to Anna Holladay our Ministry Assistant. She came to us and Project Ruth for 3 months through CBF's Student.GO program. Anna had a "can-do" attitude and did all we asked with a smile. She helped in so many areas that her return to the USA leaves a big hole. The students loved her, the staff relied on her, and we had a lot of laughs together. Thank you Anna for your servant heart and your willingness to follow where God leads.

Deck The Halls...

2011-12-11T16:05:00.001+02:00

Meet our 8th grade English Club. The goal of club is for the students to practice their English, hear us use English, and have fun doing both. This past week we decided to let them decorate the Christmas tree in the cafeteria. We counted on the girls enjoying the task and thought the boys would be so-so. Wrong! The guys were as excited as the girls. It was a fun activity and one we used to help build the feeling of leadership among our oldest students. "Deck the Halls..."

Mos Nicolae

2011-12-08T15:30:00.001+02:00

December 6th is a big day for the children of Romania. The night before they spiff up their shoes and leave them in a prominent place for Mos Nicolae (a Santa figure) to find. Mos Nicolae places small toys or candy in the shoes. When the children awaken on Dec 6th they have a surprise waiting.

The 1st and 2nd grades at the Ruth School got a great big surprise on Tuesday when the Romanian United Way sent a group from the InMedio business to provide a Mos Nicolae program. The library took on the look of a busy bee hive with children in clusters making ornaments, coloring, drawing cards for their parents, using glue and glitter, and generally having a GREAT time. The InMedio people brought in yummy desserts, candy, and soda for the students as well. (The sugar high hit as the children were on their way home!) As each student left they were given a big hug and a gift bag of school supplies and chocolate.

Thank you United Way and InMedio!

Making Chrismons at Providence Baptist Church

2011-12-07T17:45:00.001+02:00

"Take the wire and crisscross through the crystal bead then add a gold bead..." What do you know about making Chrismons? The ladies at Providence Baptist Church gathered Saturday to learn how to do this beautiful art. Chrismons are ornaments that are monograms of Christ and hung on Christmas trees to help keep us focused on the real meaning of Christmas.

Thanks to Rufty's Chrismon Shop in Salisbury and Carol Danforth of Knollwood Baptist in Winston Salem I learned how to make a few of the easy patterns. (I originally learned about Chrismons 22 years ago while at College Park Baptist Church, our sending church.) The ladies made an eternal wreath representing Christ's never ending love and an angel who heralded the news of Christ birth.

The ladies were so enthusiastic we made extras to decorate the sanctuary tree. It was a fun day and we're already making plans to do Chrismons in the spring.

American Thanksgiving with a Romanian Flair

2011-12-03T18:48:00.001+02:00

"We Gather Together to Ask the Lord's Blessings..." Last Saturday the Americans of Project Ruth (Ralph, Anna Holladay, Brittany Garton, and me) hosted a traditional Thanksgiving meal for our Romanian friends. I began by telling the story of the pilgrims coming to the New World in 1620 and what a hard winter it was. The Native American Indians helped them greatly by showing them how to adapt to their new surroundings. I compared this to how our Romanian friends had done the same thing for us. We came to a new place and they helped us to settle in, teaching us about their language and culture. This was our way of saying thank you just as they did many years ago. Although I doubt they had sweet potato casserole and pumpkin roll!

We had all the traditional foods thanks to many hours of scouring the Bucharest stores and to Rick Landon hauling over a few items in his suitcase in October. (Thank you again, Rick!) (Yes, we had to start thinking about it that early!) We had activities for the kids - pasta necklace making, pilgrims on spoons, and coloring pages. After unbuttoning our pants, another traditional activity, we spent the afternoon enjoying each other's company. As our guests departed we presented each with a candy cane explaining in our culture the end of the Thanksgiving celebration signals the beginning of Christmas. "Joy to the World..."

Gypsy Smith School - Nov 2011

2011-12-03T18:31:00.001+02:00

"No room in the inn" is a phrase we hear as Christmas draws near. Last week we were repeating it as we discussed the high attendance of Roma leaders for the Gypsy Smith School. Our dormitory was full and we had to bring in a couple of mattresses for the overflow. It was a nice problem to have and shows how the leaders are hungry for Biblical teaching. Our teachers, Hans Riphagen and Marco de Vos, were from the Baptist Union of The Netherlands. It was a good week as they taught on Christology and Characters of the Old Testament. At the end of the week we celebrated with a graduation service for Loredan who had completed his eight sessions.

During November we take time to count our blessings and we are grateful for the Gypsy Smith School. We are thankful for the students who come eager to learn, the teachers who diligently prepare the lessons, the pray-ers who lift up the sessions, and those that financially support this program. Thank you, God for your provision!

Meet Sergiu

2011-11-26T08:12:00.001+02:00

As the saying goes, "You could have heard a pin drop" in chapel this past Wednesday. Our guest speaker was Sergiu, a young Roma leader attending the Gypsy Smith School this week. He gave his testimony to the 5th-8th grades. As Sergiu told about being burned as a child and having to be in the burn unit of a hospital, the Ruth students were quiet and attentive. He told of other children in the unit dying and how scared he was. He found peace in his faith in God. It was a wonderful moment to see a Roma man, certainly a role model, sharing his love of God with our students. Thank you Sergiu for being willing to share. Thank you God for loving Sergiu and healing him years ago so he could use his life to serve you.

Laundry as a Ministry

2011-11-20T19:37:00.001+02:00

Brittany and Anna clowning around with the iron.

Laundry is probably one of my least favorite household duties. That is especially true in Europe because I do not have an electric clothes dryer. Wet clothes are hung on drying racks and of course that also means more things have to be ironed. (another least favorite activity) I had volunteered to help the kitchen workers so they could concentrate on hot lunches for the students.

"Can you help with the laundry?"

"Sure I don't need to speak Romanian very well to do that!"

You can imagine the look on my face when I saw the mountain of laundry that needed to be done at Project Ruth (PR)! We have a dormitory for our volunteers and guests. We have had several since this summer and no laundry had been done in a while. Then when it was explained that the Romanians like their sheets IRONED (!) I really shook my head. I was excited though because PR has an electric clothes dryer but then I found out it can only be used after the kids have gone home because otherwise it throws the electrical circuits. Arrrgh! So Anna, Brittany, and I took turns washing, hanging up the sheets, and then ironing. It took a week but we got it done! We also joked around and actually had a fun time.

Ministry takes on many different forms here. Humbly I realized that for me washing and ironing sheets was a way to serve the Lord. Thank you Lord for the lesson.

2011-11-14T19:11:00.001+02:00

Chapel time at the Ruth School has been embraced wholeheartedly! The kids enthusiastically sing and most of the time they sit quietly for the Bible story. As the students become more familiar with the music we have asked them to help lead. Can you name the tune in the video? Does it sound like "Our God is an Awesome God"?

Other Duties As Assigned...

2011-11-03T09:11:00.000+02:00

Anna on the left

Anna on the right

Student.Go is a program through CBF for college and seminary students to fulfill a call for ministry during their summer breaks or semesters. We have had wonderful experiences with our "Student.Go'ers" through the years. This semester is no exception. Anna Holladay came to us and Project Ruth from Louisville, KY to serve for three months. Her official title is Ministry Assistant but what does that mean? As we've come to see it means something different every day. Anna in her 'can do' attitude has stepped in and helped whatever the need. We have begun to call it "other duties as assigned." She has scanned hundreds of pictures in preparation for PR's 20th anniversary celebration, washed many dishes during our Gypsy Smith School week, participated in telling the stories in chapel, entertained volunteer teams, planned English Club, and the list goes on and on. The Ruth School students are quick to give her a hug and the staff is grateful for her dedication in helping out. We are grateful for Anna's willingness to go where God leads.

Are you interested in the Student.GO experience? Or know someone that would be? Take a look at http://studentdotgo.info for more information

Noah and His Family

2011-10-27T14:39:00.001+03:00

This week we have a team of youth from Burlington Baptist Church, Ipswich, United Kingdom at the Ruth School. They are holding a morning club time for the 1st-4th grade because those classes have fall break and doing craft time and PE with the older grades. Yesterday the team helped out in chapel by telling the story of Noah. "The aminals came in two by two, hurrah, hurrah..."

English Club begins...

2011-10-19T15:25:00.002+03:00

"At English Club we speak English." With those words English Club for the Ruth School 7th and 8th grades began today. Our group of 12 practiced their English by playing 'word' Bingo. They eagerly searched for the words on their cards after they saw the Kit Kat chocolate bars that were the prizes. It was touching to see the student that won share his candy with his friends. It was a fun time and we are eagerly anticipating next Wednesday when we will do it again.

**Looking for a way to serve? At English Club you only need to be able to speak English and enjoy having a good time. Come and join us!

Our Latest Graduate

2011-10-15T12:46:00.001+03:00

After completing two years (8 sessions) of the Gypsy Smith School a pastor is ready to graduate. Marian (no, it's not a typo. This is a masculine name in Romania. MAR-e-on) graduated with our last session. He was recognized at the weekly worship session, prayed for, and then presented with a certificate and a new Bible. It is a great celebration that all the pastors enjoy.

Gypsy Smith Leadership School - October

2011-10-07T13:29:00.001+03:00

21 Roma leaders from around Romania gathered this week at the Ruth School for training. Dr Rick Landon and Dr James Stillwell from Lexington, KY taught on Spiritual Disciplines and Pastoral Care. "I am a unique, unrepeatable miracle of God" was one of the phrases heard often. As well as "You are God's Gift" and "Every pastor needs a pastor". It was a week of information that can be taken back to the Roma congregations and used in weekly ministry.

Thank you to all who prayed for this session and contributed financially to make it happen. God blessed it tremendously!

A Slice of Romania...

2011-10-04T19:31:00.004+03:00

I was on the 6th floor when I heard this beautiful voice drifting through the window...

Success Beyond Imagination!

2011-09-29T13:49:00.001+03:00

Our first chapel was fantastic! Our theme for the year is "God Loves You". Sami, the youth minister at Providence Baptist Church (the original dreamers of the Ruth School) provided upbeat, simple praise choruses for the students. They loved singing! Next Boulevard Baptist Church team member, Justin, and CBF Student.Go'er, Anna, acted out a skit with a passenger wanting to go in a taxi to the Ruth School. With laughter this

gave us the segway for the Boulevard team to present the story of Ruth. Then we were able to explain how the Ruth School got its name. God blessed us with the talents of several people to offer a worship time on the right grade level and that kept the interest of the students.

Sewing club has begun! We had 14 students, mostly girls with a few boys, come to learn how to sew. As

Toni, Boulevard team member, instructed the students on how to begin, you could feel the excitement. And it grew considerably when she moved them to the machines! You could hear the motors running and exclamations as the students began practicing. They learned the basics of sewing a straight line, pinning seams, sewing on buttons, and how to do corners. At the end of the session the students modeled their fleece scarves. Unfortunately the machines couldn't take the wear and tear. Of the 30 donated machines we could only get 9 to sew the day before club. By the end of sewing club only 2 still functioned. But the students still had a great time and are already asking when the next club will be!

Thank you for praying for these two activities. God's hand was upon us and the blessings were immeasurable!

1st Chapel - Prayer Request

2011-09-27T21:00:00.001+03:00

Dear Prayer Supporters, It's a big week here at the Ruth School. Tomorrow (Wed Sept 28th) is our first chapel. This will begin our weekly time of introducing the Ruth School students to the love of God and helping them to grow in that love. With the help of a team from Boulevard Baptist Church in Anderson, SC, we will begin with the story of Ruth. Please pray the students are attentive and that they participate. Pray we will plant seeds that will grow over the school year.

Also tomorrow we are launching our after school sewing club. One of the Boulevard members has come prepared to teach a project to the upper level grades. Pray all will go well with no fingers caught in the needles and that the students will not only learn about sewing but have a good time too. Pray our machines work. Of the 30 donated we are down to 9 that actually sew.

Thank you for praying!

Moms' Club!

2011-09-27T16:49:00.002+03:00

We had 20 school moms make their way to the library on the second floor of the Ruth School Monday morning. Our school nurse gave a presentation on breast cancer since next month is awareness month. The ladies were attentive and asked several questions. We talked about the importance of caring for one's health. One of the Boulevard Baptist team members, visiting to help out this week, said, "You're young women now. You have to take care of yourselves so you can be old ladies in the future!" Everyone had a hearty laugh. Lastly we decorated picture frames and handed out the pictures we took at our last Moms' Club. After cookies and drinks the moms headed down the stairs to collect their children. It was a fun time.

Prayer Request - September 26

2011-09-25T17:16:00.002+03:00

Prayer Supporters: Please pray for our 1st Moms' Club being held Monday, September 26th. We are teaching on Breast Cancer since October is International awareness month. We will also being doing a craft with picture frames. I was optimistic and bought 51 frames! Please pray the Ruth School mothers will come and begin to build a fellowship. Pray God's love will be seen and heard as the team from Boulevard Baptist Church in Anderson, SC, interacts with the moms. Thanks!
**Sorry for the short notice. Due to other scheduling conflicts we had to plan this quickly. We're expecting great things!

Romanian Culture Lesson #2

2011-09-17T14:50:00.001+03:00

Friday afternoon the Ruth School administration team took a trip to the country just outside of Budapest. Imelia, our secretary and PE teacher, invited us for a Romanian grill at her parents' place. It was peaceful and relaxing. Romanians certainly know how to do a backyard bar-b-que! We had 4 kinds of meat along with red peppers, mushrooms, egg plant, and tomatoes. We are grateful for the opportunity to get to know the staff better and to learn first hand about Romanian culture. I know Ralph really likes this part! :)

Learning to skin a red pepper

One Year Mark

2011-09-15T21:38:00.002+03:00

One year ago today we moved to Romania. Thank you for praying for us during this time of transition. The year has been one of learning - language, culture, making new friends, discerning what direction God would have us go, enjoying the beautiful children at the Ruth School, getting to know the Roma leaders, and so much more. We feel blessed and are looking forward to the future.

New Wheels - Answered Prayer

2011-09-13T14:25:00.001+03:00

Prayer Supporters - Thanks for praying with us about our car situation. As you know when we moved from Hungary last year we brought our little Skoda car. We thought it would be easy to transfer the Hungarian plates to Romanian plates. After all both countries are members of the European Union and that's suppose to make those sorts of things easier, right? Wrong! After several visits to different government offices and speaking to various "officials" the word finally came that it would cost nearly as much as the car was worth to transfer it. So we made the decision to return the car to Hungary, sell it, and use the money to buy a used car in Romania. It worked out great. We got nearly the same style of car, a Skoda, with a darker color. The added bonus is we could request what we wanted the license plate letters to be. Ralph chose "Rut" which is Ruth in Romanian. So we are now driving the Ruth-mobile while working in partnership with Project Ruth. Thank you for praying with us through these decisions. Come serve with us - we'll take you for a ride!

1st Day of School 2011-2012

2011-09-12T14:40:00.003+03:00

Patiently waiting to enter

The 2011-2012 Ruth School year has begun! The students and their parents began to arrive around 8AM to await the opening ceremony on the soccer court. They excitedly lined up by grade with flowers for their teacher in hand. Giggles and shouts of greeting were heard over and over. Our former director, now art teacher, Ms Tita, introduced our new director and 1st grade teacher, Ms Virginia. Each class and their teacher were recognized with applause.

4th grade made an arch of flowers - very festive!

The 4th grade formed an arch way on the front steps of the school. Each class paraded down the sidewalk and into the building through the waving flowers. It was very festive!

In the 1st grade room there were a few tears as parents left their young ones in "big" school for the first time. Ms Virginia reassured them their children would be OK. I was struck by the thought that parents are the same the world over -

Our 2nd Preschool class!

that first day of 1st grade is traumatic no matter what culture you live in!

Ms Angela, our preschool teacher and social worker, lined up her little ducklings to see the "big building" they all have the goal of attending in the future. Then they prepared to go to their class room in the smaller building a few blocks away.

It was a wonderful start to a new year. Join us in praying for a great year for all!

Ruth School Teachers Are Back!

2011-09-09T14:49:00.000+03:00

Teachers' Meeting

"Are you ready for the new school year?" The Ruth School teachers have reported back to work and today we held a meeting to welcome them. We started with snacks, drinks, and fellowship. Then Oti Bunaciu and Mishi Ciopasiu, administrative leaders, gave a brief overview of Project Ruth and plans for the new year. Virginia, our new school principal, was formally introduced and Angela, our school social worker, gave a report on the families of the students.

Project Admin speaks to the teachers

We're looking forward to a new year and exciting things to happen among the Roma children of Ferentari!

Happy 24th to Amy Lee.

2011-09-05T12:09:00.002+03:00

Our grown up daughter

Our daughter turns 24 today. For the two of us it seems like yesterday we were bringing her home from the hospital and wondering, "What do we do now?" Since both our children are grown and doing pretty good, I guess we did OK.

We are thankful for God's blessing on our family.

Bringing Amy Lee home

And we wish Amy Lee Stocks Gallaher a very happy birthday!

It's Your Birthday!

2011-09-01T17:20:00.000+03:00

Happy Birthday to Ralph! Here he is acting goofy - a rare sight - that's usually me (Tammy). Two of his favorite things are Duke basketball and Crunchie candy bars (a childhood memory from Zambia).

A Day at the Farm - A Romanian Culture Lesson

2011-08-30T16:23:00.003+03:00

This past weekend we were invited to spend the day in the Romanian countryside. Oti Bunaciu, our friend and pastor, organized a fun time for a group of us at his maternal grandparents' old home place. It is in the hills of Romania and very rustic. His cousins did an old-fashioned grill with sausages, kabobs, fried potatoes, green peppers, and onions. Oh my, the food was plentiful and so, so good! The water was out of a nearby well and the hillside was dotted with bee hives. Apple and pear trees were abundant along with blackberry bushes. Ralph and I were able to experience a bit of Romanian culture outside of the big city. Oti's cousins were generous with their hospitality and we all had a great time.

Countdown Begins...

2011-08-22T11:20:00.002+03:00

The Ruth School begins for the new year on September 12. The teachers report August 29th. Please begin to pray now...

"Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow..."

2011-08-16T12:58:00.000+03:00

Breakfast with the Adkins & Childresses

I'm not sure what the words in the title mean - I never have been a fan of Shakespeare. However, I can say from personal experience there is not much sweet about parting - it is a great sorrow.

Each time we have had to say good bye traveling to and from Europe it is hard. One would think it would get easier since we've done it so many times. Not so. Leaving our grown children, aging parents, and good friends seems to get more difficult. From the very beginning of our ministry among the Roma we have said, "We are strong in our calling but weak in our homesickness." I can say after 17 years of life in Hungary and Romania that that is still true.

Last lunch with our children

**Pictured here saying good bye to friends - Glen and Clista Adkins with Ethel and Jim Childress at the local greasy spoon for breakfast. Below - one last lunch at Chipotle with our children - all three! Josh and married couple, Amy & Tyler.

Home Again...

2011-08-12T16:07:00.000+03:00

Ours is on the 6th floor.

"Home Again, Home Again, Jiggedy, Jig" When our kids were little we nearly always said this as we pulled into the driveway after a long trip. I found myself thinking it as we rode the elevator to the 6th floor of our building in Bucharest. It was good to be back after an adventurous summer in the USA. I had two surgeries (all is good now), our son graduated from law enforcement training, our daughter married and moved into their first home, Ralph did some follow-up medical checks, we spoke in several churches, attended the CBF GA in Florida, and those were just the highlights!

Now we are excited about the Ruth School starting around September 15th with a new principal, GSS sessions in October and November, planning the 20th anniversary of Project Ruth for 2012, craft projects for the women of the school and church, English Club, volunteer teams coming to help this fall and spring - just to name a few things!

We are so grateful for your prayer support. God is doing great things in Romania.

Baking Bread

2011-08-06T22:08:00.000+03:00

The sweet aroma of bread baking is like no other. In the village of Pocsaj on Beke (Peace) Street one can smell that mouth-watering aroma regularly. The Roma church located at the end of this dirt street had built an oven for its members to use. Even though bread is cheap in eastern Europe it can be baked at an even cheaper price. This saves the Roma of the church a little bit of money. It also fosters fellowship among the members and can be used as an outreach to others in the village. Jesus said, "I am the bread of life..."

3 Nickles A Day

2011-07-17T00:07:00.000+03:00

Can you spare 3 nickles a day? College Park Baptist Church in Greensboro, NC (our sending church 17 years ago) asks its members to do just that. Their "3 Nickles" program financially supports three ministries. We are pleased that they have chosen Project Ruth as one of these. College Park has been a Ruth School supporter for many years.

The church encourages worshippers to give above and beyond their normal tithes by giving 3 nickles a day, roughly a dollar a week. It is a small price for the huge impact those three small coins can have.

Thank you College Park Baptist Church!

Quote above the entrance to CPBC

FBC, Manchester, GA

2011-07-06T19:31:00.000+03:00

This is First Baptist Church, Manchester, GA. They have added Project Ruth to their annual budget and support the Ruth School monthly. Their regular donations help us make a difference in the lives of Roma children in the Ferentari neighborhood of Bucharest. Perhaps your church will consider partnering with us? We give God thanks for FBC, Manchester and others that assist in the ministry of Project Ruth.

CBF Celebrates 20 Years...

2011-06-28T20:56:00.000+03:00

The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (our employer) celebrated its 20th anniversary at our annual General Assembly (GA) in Tampa last week. It was a party where we celebrated our beginnings, how far we've come, our ministries, our partnerships, and so much more. New field personnel were commissioned and we had a grand party to mark this 20th year.

As part of the GA every year there is an exhibit hall and the Gypsy Team had a booth. Here we show pictures of the various ministries our team is engaged in and give out information. It was good to see old friends that have partnered with us and make new friends.

Happy Birthday CBF!

Passport Kids Camp

2011-06-21T03:57:00.000+03:00

Gypsy Lady at camp

Going to camp is as American as apple pie and baseball. This week Ralph and I had the privilege of being the missionary speakers at PassportKids camp at Eagle Eyrie, VA. It was fun, fun, and more fun. The 3rd - 6th graders were eager to learn about the Roma culture and about the Ruth School - Gypsy students their same age.

Ralph at the Chinese Night Market

This year's theme was TREASURE: Ask, Seek, Knock, using a pirate theme and an emphasis on helping in China

Making Friends and Saying Thanks

2011-06-19T05:31:00.000+03:00

Meet the ladies of the Lottie Moon Missions Group at Jersey Baptist Church in Linwood, NC. They are a praying group of women! For several years they have been committed prayer supporters of our ministry among the Roma. We regularly receive cards reminding us that these ladies are "holding the ropes" for us. Recently I met the group for lunch and was able to thank them personally for their commitment and partnership in helping the most neglected hear about Jesus. We had some great home cookin' and even better fellowship. Thank you Ladies!

Trips That Make a Difference...

2011-06-13T18:19:00.000+03:00

You have the opportunity to see God at work through the ministries of the Fellowship this October. CBF is committed to ministry among the world’s least evangelized and most marginalized people. The Romany are among Europe’s most despised and unwanted people. For nearly two decades CBF field personnel have been sharing Christ’s hope. Now, you can experience ministry firsthand among the Romany people in Eastern Europe. Travel October 7-17 with CBF field personnel and staff to witness how God is changing lives.

Estimated cost: $2,600 (airfare and accommodations)

Destination: Eastern Europe, including Romania, Slovakia and the Czech Republic

Contact: Jennifer Graham at (678) 313-3999

In the USA...

2011-06-12T21:01:00.000+03:00

Ralph arrived Thursday to join me in the USA. We are here to speak in churches, attend CBF's annual General Assembly, and most importantly attend our son, Josh's law enforcement graduation and our daughter, Amy's wedding. It is a packed summer but one we are already enjoying.

Amy & Tyler were "showered" this week with a party hosted by our friends, Glen & Clista Adkins (remember our colleagues from the Gandhi School?) and Jim & Ethel Childress (long-time volunteers). In the picture you see our family with Ralph's mom, Doris, along with the groom, Tyler Gallaher with his parents, Rob & Suzanne. We ladies had to wear boas while the men had designated caps. It was a fun time. We are blessed to have such good friends.

Josh's graduation is this week so we are in the season of parties!

Wollaston Free Church Visits

2011-06-04T19:13:00.001+03:00

Wollaston Free Church in Great Britain has been a partner of Project Ruth from the very beginning. This generous, missions-minded congregation has sent volunteers, truck loads of goods, and funds for nearly 20 years. This past week a group from the church came for a visit. There was great excitement when they handed out stuffed animals to the Obed Day Center children and big smiles when chocolate was presented to the Ruth School students. What child doesn't like either? :)

Project Ruth appreciates the commitment that Wollaston Free Church continues to make to help Gypsy children receive an education. God's blessings to you!

Joplin, MO

2011-05-30T01:25:00.000+03:00

Prayer Supporters: I'm in the US - recovering from gallbladder surgery. Thanks for your prayers. Ralph is holding down the fort in Bucharest - a very busy time for end-of-the-year activities at the Ruth School.

Please pray for the people of Joplin, MO. It is the opposite side of the state from my family and the flooding recently in the news. My dad, Guy Foster, serves with Missouri Baptist Disaster Relief on a feeding team. They were mobilized this week and arrived in Joplin on Friday. The devastation is overwhelming. They are doing what the can to help.

Couple of Requests...

2011-05-20T16:15:00.000+03:00

Prayer Supporters - A couple of requests - Yesterday was our son's birthday. Join us in praising God for his 22 years and the wonderful young man he has grown into. Josh graduates from law enforcement training in June.

Tammy is having surgery - today (Friday). Nothing serious - gallbladder. Pray for a quick recovery.

Ralph is visiting Gypsy Smith students with Alex Ghita this weekend. Pray for safe travels and good opportunities to offer encouragement.

Meeting of the Presidents

2011-05-20T16:07:00.002+03:00

This week John Upton, president of the Baptist World Alliance, has been in Romania visiting Project Ruth, Providence Baptist Church, the Baptist Seminary, and meeting several dignitaries. The visit also included a trip to Timisoara for the Romanian Baptist Union meeting.

**Picture: Oti Bunaciu, president of Project Ruth and president of the Romanian Baptist Union, is seen here presenting a Bible and a book about Baptists to the Romanian president, Traian Basescu while John Upton, president of the Baptist World Alliance looks on.

Come & Visit!

2011-05-13T22:36:00.000+03:00

Project Ruth has supporters in many different locations in the world. Now we have a visual reminder with a big map in the office. As our partners visit we ask them to mark where they are located. It's an encouragement to see pins speckle the wall. So come see us!

Floods In Missouri

2011-05-12T10:13:00.000+03:00

I'm a Show-Me state girl. My roots go deep in rural Missouri and most of my immediate family still live there. If you watched the news lately you've heard of the massive flooding taking place along the Mississippi and the fight to save lives, homes, and businesses. My family, though near the flooding, was spared damage to their own possessions but the economic impact will definitely be felt. Thank you for your prayers and concern.

English Club

2011-05-06T15:42:00.000+03:00

I often say, "We speak it but we don't teach it." One of the ladies in our building stopped me recently and asked me if I'd tutor her teenage son in English. This is a regular occurrence and comical to me - the one with the southern accent and dropped last syllables. English is a very popular choice for students for their foreign language requirement and they want to practice with native English speakers.

Ralph and I wanted more contact with the Ruth School students and wanted to be a part of the new after-school programs Project Ruth is offering. We started the English Club for 7th and 8th graders. So far it has been a fun time of games and English practice. The kids are usually wound up and ready to release some energy after being in class all day. So we plan activities that keep them up and moving. It's been a challenge but one we are enjoying.

Lindsey, Our Niece

2011-05-02T12:41:00.000+03:00

Excuse us, we are indulging in a personal moment on our blog. Today is our niece, Lindsey Stocks' birthday. She's the one in the blue dress pictured with her family above. (FYI - Her dad is Ralph's brother, Tom) It seems like yesterday we visited the cute little newborn in the hospital in Raleigh - not 22 years ago! Now she has grown into a lovely young woman who this coming weekend will graduate from Radford University with a bachelor's degree in social work. We are so proud and want the world (or at least all our blog readers) to know. Happy Birthday Lindsey and Congratulations on your Graduation!

Parks in Romania

2011-04-30T19:54:00.000+03:00

I find it amazing in a city of over 3 million people there are parks everywhere! It is one of the great things about Bucharest. Parks are scattered across the city and are well kept. They are greatly utilized by the Romanians especially on the weekends. We take our daily walk through two of them and enjoy people watching while we stroll along.

Easter in Romania

2011-04-24T16:31:00.000+03:00

Easter morning came early - or so it seemed since Providence has a late night service on Saturday. We had requested members to bring flowers for the Flowering Cross - a new way to celebrate Easter. A couple of the ladies and I encouraged people as they arrived to place their flowers on the wooden cross. And we worked to stick extra ones to fill in the gaps. It was a dramatic moment when we swung the doors open during one of the morning songs and brought the beautiful cross into the sanctuary.

The music was beautiful with a full vocal choir and a full mandolin choir. We sang a combination of traditional hymns and newer praise songs.

After the service we went to our friend, Mona's house for a traditional Romanian Easter lunch. Mona is Cami Bunaciu's sister and an excellent cook. It was all a wonderful celebration of that our Lord lives!

"Don't I Know You?"

2011-04-23T10:46:00.000+03:00

In 1996 Ralph and I were still learning a lot about Roma ministry having only been in Hungary for one year. T Thomas, the pioneer of Gypsy ministry with CBF, came over from France in the "Gypsymobile", a camping van, to pick up Ralph for a swing through Romania and Bulgaria where large numbers of Roma lived. In Romania they were joined by Romany pastor, Stefan Birnis. Together the three of them traveled to Bulgaria to visit churches and offer encouragement to the Gypsy believers. Brother Stefan preached in his Romani language dialect and was understood by the Bulgarian Roma. It was an amazing moment in time.

Fast forward to 2011. Last weekend Ralph traveled to the village of Sadova to visit a Gypsy church with our Romanian friend, Boris Caraion. Imagine the delight when the pastor was introduced. It was Brother Stefan! It took a minute for each man to make the connection thanks to little more gray hair and a few more laugh lines. They had a pleasant reunion fondly recalling those early days.

Thank you God for fun surprises.

Obed Hunts Eggs

2011-04-19T10:20:00.000+03:00

The children burst into the room to find the eggs

Happily showing off their eggs

"What's an egg hunt?" Hunting Easter eggs is not a tradition in Romania so it was a new experience for the kids of the Obed Day Center at Project Ruth. They eagerly decorated their bags and listened to the instructions of the activity. The weather did not cooperate so the eggs were cleverly hidden in a classroom next door under toys, in boots, inside cups, and on the windowsills. The children burst into the room and scurried around until each had found seven eggs. They excitedly asked if the eggs were theirs to keep and one can imagine they were anticipating eating them for lunch or surprising their families with this gift. The bags were searched for the two prize eggs - a purple one and one with a smiley face. These lucky children received a chocolate rabbit. And so no one would feel left out, all the students received chocolate bunnies as a treat. It was an enjoyable activity and a wonderful way to begin the Easter break from school. Thank you God for providing fun times.

Have A Heart...

2011-04-14T12:04:00.000+03:00

How many hearts do you have? Alexandrina Nacu has three. Of course she has the physical one like we all have that pumps blood around the body. Ms Nacu has a second heart that is filled with love for the students of the Ruth School. Here she has taught Biology for several years and works hard to make sure her students learn the vital lessons of science. She commands respect in her classroom and makes lessons interesting with limited supplies. She is a favorite teacher among the students.

Recently thanks to the generosity of Carolina Biology Supply in North Carolina, Ms Nacu received a third heart. When the educational team from Knollwood Baptist Church presented her a heart model during the teacher's inservice, Ms Nacu clapped her hands and exclaimed with joy. She has long wished for durable, hands-on aids to use for teaching. She was as excited as a kid at Christmas. Quickly she took the heart apart and reassembled it, offering a teaching moment to anyone interested in listening. She was practically giddy!

Thank you God for giving Alexandrina Nacu three hearts, each one valuable in its own way. Thank you Carolina Biological Supply for the donation and thank you Knollwood Baptist for hauling it over the ocean. Now the Biology students at the Ruth School will be able to know all about "hearts".

CBF's Global Missions Offering Needs Your Help

2011-04-12T08:46:00.000+03:00

The offering that supports the field personnel of CBF is experiencing a deficit. Please consider a gift to help us keep the promises of being the presence of Christ among the neglected of the world. If you are from North Carolina your gift will be matched by your state CBF. (See article below) That's a guaranteed doubling of your investment! Even Wall Street can't do that!

CBF
PO Box 101699
Atlanta, GA 30392-1699

or online at: http://thefellowship.info/

(North Carolinians be sure to state your residency.)

State CBF challenges churches for global missions

By Norman Jameson, Associated Baptist Press
Monday, April 11, 2011

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (ABP) -- Saying Fellowship Baptists need to “keep the promises” made to missionaries and the neglected peoples they serve, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of North Carolina has issued a $100,000 challenge on behalf of the CBF Offering for Global Missions.

In the 13 weeks between the North Carolina CBF general assembly in Asheville and the national CBF general assembly in Tampa, Fla., CBFNC will match every dollar given from a North Carolina church or individual to the global missions offering, up to $100,000.

With the offering at just 50 percent of its $5.5 million goal through March and beneath the hovering threat of having to recall missionaries, North Carolina CBF Executive Coordinator Larry Hovis said: “We decided on the challenge to encourage North Carolina Fellowship Baptists to redouble their efforts in supporting the offering. Ultimately it is supporting people struggling to be the presence of Christ among some of the most neglected people groups in the world.”

“Twenty years ago, Fellowship Baptists made a commitment to the marginalized and least evangelized,” Hovis said in making the challenge announcement. “We agreed to tackle the global missions enterprise as ‘cooperative’ Baptists engaging in global missions together, agreeing to pool our resources so that the poor may be fed, clothed, housed, medically treated, educated, given economic opportunities and introduced to Jesus Christ. The Fellowship cannot make good on those promises to the most neglected with contributions from partnering congregations continuing to decline.”

CBF national receives the missions offering through September. Controller Larry Hurst said gifts to the offering income are about where they have been the past few years at this point in the calendar, but that rate has left the offering a half million dollars short of goal. CBF Executive Director Daniel Vestal warned last June that continuing offering shortfalls could result in recalling missionaries.

North Carolina is typically near the top among state CBF fellowships in supporting the Offering for Global Missions. The challenge reflects both the state’s commitment to global missions and receipts that solidly exceeded their operations budget. Hovis said the fiscal year runs April 1 through March 31, and this year churches oversubscribed the budget, leaving a fund balance to use for the challenge gift.

“By offering the challenge we are not just encouraging people to give but saying, ‘We’re going to lead the way,’” Hovis said. He said he believes a successful offering is the difference between missions personnel coming home and being able to send additional workers to the field.

CBF leaders at the national level are promoting this year’s missions offering by calling on Baptists to “keep the promise” made both to fully-funded field personnel and the marginalized people they serve.

“North Carolina CBF has been a significant partner in global missions from the very beginning,” said Rob Nash, CBF coordinator of global missions. “For CBFNC to come to the plate with this kind of challenge grant means that we’re going to be able to overcome this deficit funding we’ve experienced over the past couple years. It will enable us to keep our field personnel in places of ministry to which God has called them.

Hovis said while the missions support “lifeline has frayed,” he believes CBF senses the support of congregations “in a myriad of ways that is encouraging to them.” He does not believe the mission offering struggles to meet goal is the byproduct of anything other than the economy and the struggles of congregations to meet their own budgets.

Vestal said last year that he finds it “puzzling” that churches don’t give more to the Offering for Global Missions.

“I am totally puzzled,” he said at the June meeting of his Coordinating Council. “I am confused. I don’t understand why churches don’t give to the Offering for Global Missions. Every dime goes either to pay a missionary’s salary or project or living ministries of a missionary.”

-30-

Norman Jameson is reporting and coordinating special projects for ABP on an interim basis. He is former editor of the North Carolina Biblical Recorder

Greater is He--Week of Prayer, Day 7 - Praises!

2011-04-09T09:48:00.000+03:00

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them,

because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

I John 4:4, NIV

Join us in praising God for this truth and for the ways He is at work for and among the Romany.

The Roma Education Fund provides support to talented Roma university students across Hungary—and helps shatter stereotypes.

The January session of the Gypsy Smith School was a huge success--20 were expected but 24 attended. The Gypsy Smith School is a leadership training for Roma church leaders held four times a year in Bucharest, Romania.

A hundred years ago one of the greatest evangelists in Britain was Romany—Gypsy (Rodney) Smith.

The two women working with Romany in Italy use most of their financial resources to feed and clothe children who live in make shift houses under bridges and overpasses. When the police chase them away, these Christians search until they find them again.

This past Christmas the International School in Kosice, Slovakia, had a food drive to emphasize the importance of concern for others and provided food for at least 10 Roma families.

This year Project Ruth took a new step in their quest to break the cycles of poverty through education by beginning a preschool class in a Roma neighborhood in Bucharest, Romania.

Through her hobby of making and selling cards, a Dutch woman is providing tuition for a Romany student to attend the Moldovan Bible College.

Bethlehem Baptist Church in Moldova tried for more than 6 years to get electricity. The fee was $300--a month's wages for some people. The whole church dedicated themselves to two days of prayer and fasting. The whole sum was provided.

Laszlo, a retired Hungarian business-man, supports the Roma Baptist Church in Csobanka Sunday after Sunday, despite member-ship ups and downs, weather conditions, often the lack of a musician, through teaching, preaching, praying, and serving as treasurer.

International Roma Day

2011-04-08T10:48:00.003+03:00

Today is International Roma Day.

This statement comes from the National Roma Center (NRC) in Kumanovo, Macedonia, "This year marks four decades since the First Roma Congress was held in London, and besides the fact that the movement for improvement of the situation of the Roma community has improved, the lives of millions Roma throughout Europe have not been visibly improved. The Roma community is faced with extremely low conditions for normal living and migrates in order to look for stability and normal development. NRC appeals to all Governments responsible for the lives of millions of Roma citizens, decrease migration, by offering stability."

The NRC offers five areas of needed action:
1. Offering Roma civil status so they can obtain ID cards
2. Improving employment opportunities
3. Assisting to improve living conditions and housing
4. Providing health care
5. Providing education - this is one of the bright spots noted by the NRC. Educational opportunities have improved greatly but still need to be increased.

Our team is working in many of these areas to help improve the lives of the Roma in the countries where we serve. Please consider being an advocate for the Romany. Partner with us through praying, giving, and serving.

Greater is He--Week of Prayer, Day 6

2011-04-08T10:03:00.000+03:00

This past summer I attended my first baptism of Roma believers. All five of them had come to know Christ through the efforts of the OASIS Ministry of the BETHEL House of Christian Help in Litomerice, Czech Republic. We drove through Terezin, where one of the Nazi concentration camps was located, on the way to the baptism.

The sun was shining; it was warm and the perfect day for baptism in a river. As I walked down the old stone steps to the river, I remember thinking that it was an interesting choice of location for the event. It wasn’t until we were leaving that the true significance of the site became clear to me. Although Terezin was not considered one of the death camps, it was complete with gas chambers and cremation ovens and over 30,000 people lost their lives there.

Reading the memorial statue by the river, I realized that this beautiful place was where the Nazis dumped the ashes from the cremation ovens. What had once been a place of death and darkness was now a place of rebirth and light. God truly is greater than even the darkest moments in history.

--Pray that the new Roma believers in Litomerice will continue to grow in their faith and witness.

--Pray for the new cooking class outreach to Roma girls in Litomerice.

Greater is He--Week of Prayer, Day 5

2011-04-07T10:12:00.001+03:00

Following a failed marriage for each of them Tibi and Natasha fell in love. At about the same time Natasha, a believer, led Tibi to the Lord. With Natasha’s help Tibi learned to read for the first time and the Bible became his book of choice. He matured rapidly in his faith and his reading ability.

However, they faced a dilemma. Unemployment amongst Roma in Hungary hovers between 80-90% and they struggled in a depressed area of the country. Each could secure seasonal work for three months at a time but nothing was guaranteed year-round. In a strange quirk the social welfare system allows two single adults, even living together, to draw more in benefits than a married couple living together. Even with these meager benefits survival was a daily struggle.

A greater struggle ensued as they came to understand God’s design for marriage and family stability. With a new conviction of their maturing faith they were married. Even though they faced more severe hardships economically they knew they were doing the right thing. Their example of sacrifice to follow God’s will has impacted other Roma couples in the same circumstances.

--Pray that Christian marriages will withstand the economic pressures placed upon them by an uncaring social welfare policy.

--Pray that Roma will find work year-round so that they can provide for their families through honest work and live morally.

--Pray that Tibi and Natasha will experience God’s blessings for their obedience to his teachings.

Greater is He--Week of Prayer, Day 4

2011-04-06T09:32:00.000+03:00

Sister Luise (Louisa)* began an outreach to Sinti children in her native Germany. One Sinti father became very angry with her because his child subsequently refused to lie for him. He found a way to have Sister Luise declared “unclean.” She had filled in briefly for someone at a hospital reception desk, and in Sinti culture blood (and by extension hospital work) makes one unclean.

Since Sister Luise could no longer have direct contact with Sinti, she began making and sending cards with Scripture verses in German, then Bible story booklets, then Bible story booklets with Sinti text pasted over the German . . . which eventually led to establishing Romanes Arbeit Marburg, a German organization that supports Wycliffe Bible Translators working in Sinti . . . which eventually led to:

3 published books of the Bible;
3 Scripture audio-recordings;
6 Christian DVDs dubbed into the Sinti language;
7 segments of Bible stories available on YouTube;

2 children’s Scripture coloring books.

As of today, the entire New Testament with Psalms is available in print and recording of the audio version is 50% completed. Truly, greater is He that was in Sister Luise than he that is in the world.

--Praise for Sinti believers who have helped make and distribute culturally-appropriate Christian media;

--Prayer for the use and distribution of the New Testament to evangelize and disciple Sinti Romany.

*Sister Luise was a diaconess, a sort of Protestant nun. The diaconess movement has started hospitals, engaged in social work, and is active in missions.

Greater is He--Week of Prayer, Day 3

2011-04-05T10:07:00.000+03:00

Though he grew up in a children’s home, Pavel is excited to return to Roma settlements to share the restoring hope of Christ. There he met Richard who told about the emotional, spiritual and even physical burdens he bears because of his work in a very poor Roma community.

“I don’t know how I could work in these places without faith, without Jesus’ power,” Pavel responded to Richard. “You can’t continue in this type of work without Jesus.” This conversation took place between two very different Roma men who are both involved in meeting the needs of Roma in north-central Slovakia.

In a later conversation, Richard shared how his son giggles that after all these years his strong, retired military father has started going to church to pray. Richard has found a place to restore himself through prayer and to experience the hope of Jesus.

--Pray for Pavel who was baptized in early 2011 as he continues to grow in the faith and as he discovers God’s will for his life.

--Pray for Richard and that God would continue to reveal Himself as a source of hope and restoration.

--Pray for the Roma of Slovakia and for all those who bring the Light to their dark world.

Greater is He - Week of Prayer, Day 2

2011-04-04T10:01:00.000+03:00

No matter where they live in Europe the Roma people hear the taunts, insults and ridicule. “You are dirty, worthless and lazy. You will never amount to anything.” They face discrimination from nationals in education, employment, housing and medical care.

And yet the God who loves them collectively and individually has touched the hearts of Romanian Baptists and has overcome the harsh rhetoric and treatment normally experienced by Roma children. Last year the 8th grade class of the Ruth School graduated all 12 of its Roma students and each one successfully re-entered public education at the secondary level.

The message those kids received was, “You are a child of God and worthy of love!” The God who touches people’s hearts and moves them to overpower discrimination is greater than the one who fosters hate (I John. 4:4).

--Pray that graduates of the Ruth School who re-enter Romanian public education will experience success and will have enough self-esteem to overcome discrimination from fellow students.

--Pray that teachers at the Ruth School will instill in their Roma students a strong sense of God’s love for them and exhibit good cross-cultural skills in teaching them.

Greater is He That Is in Us--Week of Prayer, Day 1

2011-04-03T19:13:00.001+03:00

Beginning today our CBF Gypsy Team invites you to pray for the Romany (Gypsies) every day this week using the guide we will post daily. This can also be viewed at http://cbfgypsyministry.blogpost.com/

The position of the 6-11 million Romany (Gypsies) living around the world is not be particularly encouraging. The Romany originated in northwestern India centuries ago and have since spread to every inhabitable continent on earth. While their number includes university professors, preachers, journalists, successful artists, and governmental leaders, it also includes villages with practically 100% unemployment. News snippets like these remain depressingly common:

Systemic segregation of Romani children in education continues. . .

A 2010 US State Department report discusses the overrepresentation of Roma as victims of trafficking . . . .

“Standards Do Not Apply: Inadequate Housing in Romani Communities”

“. . . anti-Romani violence has remained a serious and even an increasing problem . . .”

We (CBF's Romany Team) invite you to pray with us this week and see, as we have, that “greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world."

--Thank God for the hope offered through Jesus Christ, the son, and the transforming power provided through the Holy Spirit.

--Pray for the Romany—and other Christians near them—to view their lives from God’s perspective, and not the world’s.

Note: Romany, Romani, and Roma are all common terms for the same group

Teaching Teachers # 2

2011-04-03T18:53:00.000+03:00

Obed Day teacher, Angela, making paper dolls

Wow! Look at the fun stuff!

The inservice started with instructions on how to make paper dolls. As the teachers worked to follow the directions the point was made how children can struggle at different levels when given directions. This was followed by a lengthy discussion on behavioral problems and positive reinforcement. As two of the Knollwood team acted out the difficulties that can be seen in the classroom, several of the teachers laughed and said they knew those children personally! The Ruth teachers were given a plan of action for several of the common problems observed in classrooms.

The teachers were next treated to 'hands-on' demonstrations of the many classroom aids brought by the team. The staff's eyes lit up as they realized the things were theirs to enjoy and use with their students. Thank you Knollwood for making that happen!

Good-byes were said and email addresses exchanged. Teachers who were feeling the tiredness that comes as the school year draws to a close were re-energized for the last 2 months. They had new ideas and plans for the coming year. It was a learning experience for all.

Olympics Closing Ceremonies

2011-04-03T18:37:00.002+03:00

The Olympics at the Ruth School officially came to a close with ceremonies held during lunch on Thursday, March 31. The students were treated to a hot dog lunch and video highlights of the week. Each "country" was called forward so all the participants could receive a medal, hugs, and high fives from the Knollwood team. The students were quite proud of their medals and showed them off. Lastly the Olympic flame was extinguished and the students were led in cheers of "All for one and one for all" as they made their way out the door. It was a resounding way to end the week!

Ruth Moms - Tea & Sponge Painting

2011-03-31T23:00:00.000+03:00

"God made us special as mothers. He gave us hearts to love children." With those words we began the Ruth Moms tea on Wednesday. The ladies from the Knollwood Baptist team assisted in serving tea and cakes to the moms as they made their way into the new library at the Ruth School. After a getting-to-know-you activity Sue Miller shared from her heart about her relationship with her daughter and grandson. To mark the beginning of spring in Bucharest we sponge painted clay flower pots in bright spring colors. The moms laughed and talked as the time flew by. At the end of the hour Annie Kendall offered a word of encouragement on the important role a mom plays in her child's education. Each mom was given a little goodie bag with items to help tell stories to their children and a ribbon reminding them they are "winners" as moms.

Thank you for praying for this activity. We had hoped for 15 moms, planned for 21, and had 24 to attend. I promised the moms we would meet again and I would plan for 50 so they needed to invite the other moms to come. Praise to God for answered prayers!

Teaching Teachers

2011-03-30T23:26:00.001+03:00

Annie Kendall showing how to use new materials

Ruth School teachers with Knollwood Baptist team

Teaching teachers...not an easy task. The experienced teachers on the Knollwood Baptist Church team spent a couple of hours this past Tuesday offering encouragement and information on learning styles to the Ruth School teaching staff. It was amazing to hear the interaction as the teachers shared about their classes, their challenges, and their dreams. There was an instant connection between the two groups because of their shared love of education. The Knollwood team not only shared the information they also demonstrated new techniques and allowed the teachers some hands-on time. At the end of the time each Ruth School teacher was given a star because they are truly "stars". We give thanks to God for dedicated teachers.

Let the Games Begin!

2011-03-28T19:27:00.000+03:00

The torch arrives

The Knollwood team with kids

The Olympic games officially opened at the Ruth School today! The excitement in the air was electric as the 1st and 2nd graders came to the sports room with their team bandanas tied around the neck. The Olympic anthem rang out as the teams representing China (location of the last games), Great Britian (site of the next Olympics), Romania (host country), and the USA (home of the "officials") paraded around, as the Olympic flag was presented, and finally as the Olympic flame circled the room.

After the opening ceremonies the teams were divided and competed in relay games such as bean bag toss, hula hoop pass, running sideways, and others. Cheers were loud and lessons of respect with good sportsmanship were taught.

Tomorrow the 3rd and 4th graders will compete with the other grades following the next two days. During lunch on Thursday the closing ceremonies will be held with the "atheletes" receiving a gold medal. We will feast on hot dogs and cookies! Hoo-rah! Check back for updates.

God vs The Bad Guys

2011-03-26T22:34:00.001+02:00

I recently got a packet of thank yous from some of the students at the International Christian School of Budapest where I spent a week as Dr T, Mad Scientist in the Mad About Jesus Laboratory, as part of the school's Spiritual Emphasis Week. (For more info and pictures - look in Feb blogs) It was fun to read what the students remembered and liked. I wanted to share one that made me smile and realize God was at work that week with a message for the kids. "Dear Dr T, Thank you for showing us the elaphant tooth paste. That was awesome!! And thank you for showing how strong God is and how weak the bad guys are. Thank you very much. Your friend, Parker"

Adding Color...

2011-03-22T15:58:00.000+02:00

Project Ruth moved their offices last year from the building connected to Providence Baptist Church to the actual Ruth School building. They have more space and lots of white wall. This past week we added a little color with a collection of pictures from the school. We also have added a map of the world for supporters to mark where they are from. Our goal is to see how many countries we can tag. Come see us!

The March 2011 Class

2011-03-19T13:55:00.000+02:00

Gypsy Smith Class, March 2011

The week ended strong with high enthusiasm and an eagerness to take their new knowledge back to their places of service. The goodbyes were lingering since the fellowship had been good and the men knew the next class wouldn't be held until October. (With more seasonal employment available in the summer and fall, we don't have classes so the men can work.) This week's session was the first to be held in the new Ruth School library and it was agreed that the extra room and comfort was worth the 10 minute walk from the dormitory.

Join us in praising God for a good week of studies. Thank him for dedicated church leaders who made the effort to come. Thank him for the two teachers who took personal time and money to travel here for teaching. Thank him for the many people who work behind the scenes - the cooks, the cleaners, the grocery shoppers, the office support - to make this week possible. Praise God for His Goodness!

GSS - midweek

2011-03-16T21:40:00.000+02:00

Dr Doug Bryan teaching at the Gypsy Smith School.

Happy 6 Months!

2011-03-15T20:01:00.000+02:00

Today marks the 6th month anniversary of our move to Bucharest. Where did the time go? I've gotten accustomed to getting on the elevator and praying it makes it to the 6th floor. It seems normal to look out our window and see nothing but block buildings. I don't even notice the numerous stray dogs lazing around in the park. "Buna ziua" (good day) rolls off my tongue as well as "pace" (the greeting given at church).

Most articles you read on cultural adjustment say the first six months are the honeymoon period. Everything is exciting and new. I think that's right. They say reality hits in the months following. Ralph and I are hoping to skip that phase thanks to good friends here that help in any way possible. And good friends and family in the States that do the same.

So Happy Anniversary to Us!

Gypsy Smith Leadership Training - March 2011

2011-03-14T15:15:00.001+02:00

The March session of the Gypsy Smith Leadership Training School (GSS) began today with 19 church leaders from around Romania. This group is the first to meet in the Ruth School's new library and media room. The room is spacious, well lit, and equipped with a projector and white board. It is a great space for teaching and learning. We are grateful for God's provision.

This session the men are being taught by Wesley Craig, Missions pastor at Baptist Temple in San Antonio, TX and Doug Bryan, Assistant Provost for Academic Services at Gardner Webb University, Boiling Springs, NC. Wesley's name may sound familiar because he and his wife Susan, served on the Project Ruth staff for three years through CBF's Global Service Corps. It was like coming home as they reacquainted themselves with the city and greeted old friends at Providence Baptist Church and the Ruth School. For Doug, this is a first time experience of being in Romania. But one he is quickly adapting to as we show him the city and introduce him to not only the Romanian culture but the Roma (Gypsy) culture as well.

The week has started off great with sunny, warm weather and students eager to learn. Pray for the remaining days to be fruitful and blessed.

**Photo: Wesley Craig beginning the day.

The Loss Of A Friend

2011-03-10T12:24:00.001+02:00

On March 9th Project Ruth and all of its friends and supporters said farewell to a dear friend. Vasile Moceanu passed away from cancer on that day. Many will remember him as the first face they met upon arriving in Bucharest as he worked as the official driver for Project Ruth for many years. Every team of volunteers and every GSS/TCM teacher had the privilege of meeting this humble servant of God. A skilled driver with a detailed knowledge of the streets of Bucharest Morceanu safely delivered all such visitors to their many destinations. Although he spoke little English visitors were warmly welcomed by Moceanu with a handshake or kiss on the cheek.

Moceanu was a delight to the children of the Ruth School. He regularly delivered lunch to the children attending Obed Day Center and his pockets often held pieces of candy for the Roma children. While he waited in the van for staff or visitors to complete their errands you would often find Moceanu reading his Bible. He was recognized in his family and his church for his steadfast belief in God. His faith stood firmly throughout his final days and he was a strong witness of God’s love to the many friends and church family who gathered at his bedside daily.

The Project Ruth family grieves the loss of our dear friend but rejoices that he has found wholeness and peace and complete joy in the presence of God our Father.

Lenten Devotions

2011-03-09T14:15:00.000+02:00

Today is Ash Wednesday and in the Christian church we begin the Lenten season. It is a time of preparing hearts, minds, and souls for the celebration of Easter. During Lent we meditate on the journey Christ took to the cross and why. I recommend the web site www.d365.org/journeytothecross/ as an outstanding guide of devotions during this time.

Celebrated Not Traded

2011-03-09T10:12:00.000+02:00

Yesterday, March 8th, was International Women's Day. It's not a day generally celebrated in the USA but in Europe it is a day to recognize the women in your life. The flower shops are overflowing with flowers wrapped in cellophane and ribbon ready for purchase by men and boys. Tables pop up on street corners for the same reason. It is a day to celebrate and make women and girls feel special.

As I sat yesterday having my morning tea watching CNN, the international version, I was startled to see the special report they were doing on sex slavery in Romania. They concentrated on two brothers who would go into small villages which are very economically depressed with few job opportunities and offer young ladies an opportunity to move to a western European country for work to make good money. The young ladies would then find themselves enslaved, forced to prostitute themselves, raped, drugged, beaten into submission, lost to their families. The brothers are now in jail but they were only two of many that make money by preying on poor families with daughters. In an interview with the mother of the brothers she said they did no wrong they were only trying to make a living. What?!?! In response to their investigations CNN is launching a new effort called CNN Freedom Fighters to combat modern day slavery.

Join me in helping to make others aware and in praying for ways to help. Let's Celebrate Not Trade.

Gypsy Team Meeting

2011-03-08T15:54:00.000+02:00

Our team usually meets twice a year - once electronically through the miracle of web-conferencing and once face to face. Since we all live in Europe we can take advantage of cut-rate European airlines and going during the off-season. This past week we, along with families, gathered in Palermo, Italy for 4 days. We were joined by our Team Coordinator, Becky Smith and CBF's new Member Care Coordinator, Tere Canzoneri.

We spent our time reporting on what was happening in the Romany (Gypsy) ministries in our areas. We planned strategy for continuing to share the Good News. We networked and shared stories. We took turns praying for each other and giving devotional thoughts. We shared meals and enjoyed spending time together. It was a great time and I think we were all refreshed.

Happy Spring!

2011-03-01T10:34:00.001+02:00

Today, March 1, marks the beginning of the celebration of Spring in Romania. It is called Mărțișor. The name is the diminutive of marț, the old folk name for March (Martie, in modern Romanian), and literally means "little" or "dear March".

Mărțișor and marţ are names for the red and white string, from which usually hangs a small decoration, and it is given to others on the 1st day of March. Giving this decoration is an old custom, and it is believed that the one who wears the red and white string will be powerful and healthy for the year to come. It is also a symbol of the coming spring. Usually, men give this to women who wear it pinned to their blouses for the first 12 days March. In modern times, the Mărțișor has become more of a symbol of friendship and love, appreciation and respect. (information & picture from Wikipedia)

Personal note: We may be celebrating spring but the temps are well below freezing with snow on the ground and more falling today. I, Tammy, went to an outdoor Martisor market yesterday at the Peasant's Museum. I was amazed at all the beautiful ribbons and decorations made by craftsmen from around the country.

Say What?!?!

2011-02-28T10:00:00.001+02:00

IS HUNGARIAN GOVERNMENT READY FOR AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION AT HOME IN THE LIGHT OF PROPOSED EUROPEAN ROMA STRATEGY?

Posted by: ValeryNovoselsky on the Romano Liloro web site of Roma news

"Last month, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán declared Roma issues a priority for the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union. He promised to work towards a “functioning Roma strategy” at EU-wide level to improve social inclusion of Roma citizens. While the Prime Minister’s pledge to enhance Roma rights across the EU is commendable, the rhetoric has done little to console Hungary’s Roma, who continue to face discrimination, including in the form of hate crime. They have been waiting for justice to be served and for Hungarian officials to lead by example when it comes to addressing the daily struggles of Roma at home. Setting aside its high rhetoric in support of Roma rights across Europe, there is much that Hungary’s government could do at home ... It’s time for the government to prove that Hungary is serious about standing up for its Roma citizens at home as it pursues initiatives at the EU level." - Paul LeGendre, Director, Fighting Discrimination Program.

**It is our opinion that the Hungarian government is saying, "Do as I say, not as I do." They are "talking the talk" but from what we've observed certainly NOT "walking the walk" Join us in prayer that this will change.

SEW @ ICSB with Dr T

2011-02-26T16:08:00.000+02:00

Dr T, Mad Scientist, with her Mad About Jesus Laboratory made a daily appearance last week at the International Christian School of Budapest (ICSB) for Spiritual Emphasis Week (SEW). With a science experiment or two combined with a Biblical lesson, the elementary students learned about God. A very good time was had by all. From the exploding cola to the elephant toothpaste to the crushing of cans with air the children were excited to see what crazy thing Dr T would do next. And with each memorable experiment came a lesson of God's love, power, grace, and care.

Dr T, AKA Tammy Stocks, wishes to thank ICSB & Lori Dickason, principal for the invitation to give back to the school that helped shape the Stocks children into wonderful adults. Dr T also thanks MadAboutJesus.net for the inspiration. And, Mrs Kelly Kennedy, Children's Minister at Emerywood Baptist Church, High Point, NC, for the ideas. And most importantly Dr T is thankful to God for the love of science and goofy sense of humor He gave her.

God is Love - Valentine's Day

2011-02-17T19:42:00.000+02:00

The students at the Ruth School got a little something extra Monday with their lunch. Cupcakes! In celebration of Valentine's Day the white creamy cakes sprinkled with red sugar were a welcome treat.

Roma, Romany, Romani, Romanian, Gypsy? Keeping it all Straight

2011-02-14T09:22:00.000+02:00

We, along with our colleagues, have worked hard to educate others on the correct term for the people group most know as Gypsy - it is Roma or Romany. Now the Romanian government is trying to change that. It stems from the confusion of "Romanian", people who are from Romania, with "Roma", the word derived from the Romani language to describe the Gypsies, a distinct ethnic group. (Then you add the confusion of the city of Rome, Italy which Italians call "Roma" and matters are more muddied.) We have been told that many consider Gypsy to be a derogatory term. For now we will continue to use the term Roma or Romany until our friends in this ethnic group tell us differently.

From the blog: romatransitions.org/blog

The Romanian Senate wants to dub the Roma “gypsies”

by George Lacatus

Romanian senators from the two parliamentary committees decided on 2 February 2011 to dub Romanian Roma “gypsies” in all official papers. To be more precise, they have approved a law project which changes the name of the Roma minority into gypsy. Paradoxically enough, the senators who decided this are members of the Commission for the Protection of Human Rights, Religions and Minorities and the Commission for Equal Opportunities. Last year, this law project had been approved by the Romanian Government as well. Once it is approved by Deputies Chamber, it becomes law.

Graduation!

2011-02-10T12:35:00.003+02:00

During the January session of the Gypsy Smith School four men were awarded certificates for completion. This means they had attended eight weeks of sessions and studied 16 classes. The certificates are awarded as part of the Thursday evening service at Providence Baptist Church. It was a proud moment. Please pray for these men and the others to take what they learned and use it to God's glory in the churches where they lead.

Name That Tune #2

2011-02-07T11:12:00.000+02:00

Providence Baptist Church, the Romanian Baptist church where we worship, has a great deal of musical talent. Here you see their mandolin choir. Members start young learning to play and eventually make it to the "front row". It is beautiful. Can you name that tune?

Personal Moment

2011-02-04T10:57:00.005+02:00

You may have noticed I haven't blogged much in the last two weeks. I am grateful for some personal time I was able to take for a quick trip to the USA. It was a whirlwind of helping my daughter find the wedding dress of her dreams (no pictures, sorry, the groom reads my blog), celebrating my mom's birthday (can't tell you her age, she reads my blog), meeting my first grand niece (precious, tiny little girl who shares my dimple), and a number of other tasks. I flew back just as the massive winter storm was hitting the US and felt blessed to return to Bucharest where the temps were frigid but the sun was shining... And of course the red-bearded man that was waiting for me at the arrivals door!

Prayers Answered - 5 Year Permits!

2011-01-30T05:00:00.003+02:00

We are official residents of Romania and have been granted this privilege for 5 years! Hooray! Rejoice with us. Give God the praise! So many of you were praying for us and those prayers were answered very positively! Thank you for being prayer warriors on our behalf.

GSS January Session A Success!

2011-01-22T16:45:00.003+02:00

The January session of the Gypsy Smith School was a huge success! We expected about 20 leaders and had 24 attend! We were scrambling around making beds to accommodate the extra numbers - always a nice problem to solve.

Our leaders, Warren Hoffman, pastor of 3rd Baptist Church in St Louis, and Terrell Carter, interim youth pastor at 3rd and Networking Coordinator for CBF MO, taught on communion, worship elements, and the New Testament. Harold Phillips, Coordinator of CBF MO, accompanied the Missouri leaders but sadly returned to the USA after the first day due to the death of his father.

The weather was cold and blistery outside but the fellowship and camaraderie was warm and inviting inside. It was a wonderful week of training and building of relationships. Please join us in giving God thanks for his blessings.

CBF Missouri Is In The House!

2011-01-16T09:37:00.004+02:00

The first session of 2011 for the Gypsy Smith Leadership School begins tomorrow (Monday, January 17). Three leaders from Missouri (my home state!) will be teaching this week. Harold Phillips (back row, plaid shirt) is the Coordinator for CBF MO, Warren Hoffman (back row, black vest) is the pastor of 3rd Baptist Church, St Louis, and Terrell Carter (front row, red shirt), wears a couple of hats including teacher, interium youth pastor, and Strategic Networker for CBF MO. (The other three people in the picture I assume our blog readers know - Ralph and Cami and Oti Bunaciu.)

Please pray for these men as they teach the Roma leaders this week through January 19th. Pray for the Romany leaders to put aside other things and to be able to concentrate on the lessons of the week. Join us in praising God for calling our leaders from both cultures who commite themselves to His service.

And... Go get'em SHOW ME State!

Life in a Block Apartment

2011-01-13T09:57:00.002+02:00

Our son, Josh, left yesterday to return to his life in the USA. We had a wonderful visit with him and his sister, Amy. This was their first visit to see our new life in Bucharest.

The day before Josh left we had the perfect storm of block apartment life. No hot water, no heat, and no elevator (we live on the 6th floor). It was a bonding experience as we climbed the flights of stairs and it warmed us for the cold greeting of our apartment. Yes, it was sad to say good-bye but I think North Carolina was looking pretty good to him!

We're grateful for all our family moments together - with or without hot water!

Reading is Fun... The library is ALMOST ready!

2011-01-11T17:38:00.003+02:00

Take a look at the newest addition at the Ruth School - the library! The goal was to create a space for students to study, for staff to have meetings, and eventually offer after-school programs. This multipurpose room has many possibilities for ministry. Project Ruth is grateful to all who played a role in bringing this dream to reality.

SNOW!

2011-01-05T23:38:00.002+02:00

Old Man Winter hit Bucharest with a force! The temperatures have plummeted and the "highs" are below zero. We have several inches of snow on the ground and it's likely to stick around for a while. Unlike the southern USA, life goes on. Stores are open, public transportation runs, people carry-on - maybe a little more cautiously. Today classes resumed at the Ruth School. Yes, life goes on...

It's My Birthday!

2011-01-02T20:17:00.000+02:00

It's my birthday and I'm celebrating! I find as I grow older it's the simple things that make me happy. As I dashed into the store to get bread after church I noticed mine and Ralph's favorite Romanian pastry was being put on the shelf - fresh out of the oven! When we moved to Bucharest in September we were living in chaos for a few days and would run to the store for breakfast each morning. We discovered these flaky, tender pastries that were glazed and sprinkled with pecans. The inside was like the middle of a pecan pie. We quickly decided we could NOT do this every morning or we'd have to buy new clothes to fit our expanding waistlines. We save this delicious pleasure for the taste buds for special occasions. Now you know why I was so excited to see them warm and fresh! I bought two - birthdays are fun to share. So for my birthday I indulged and it was worth EVERY calorie!

Thank you one and all for the birthday greetings - it was a great day!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T17:59:00.001+02:00

Our family wishes you a very happy 2011. We thank you for all the support you've given us this past year and look forward to what the new one will bring. Blessing to all!

Where Did You Spend Your Christmas Break?

2010-12-29T12:06:00.003+02:00

I tried to convince our children, Amy & Josh, that the answer to that question would be a conversation starter for their friends in the USA. "Well, first our parents took us to see Dracula's stomping ground at Bran, Transylvania, Romania and after that excitement we toured the People's Palace in Bucharest, the 2nd largest building in the world!" They said it was a conversation stopper - what do you say after that? Oh yeah, they have to add watching the Bear Dancers and the Santa Band on the street in front of our apartment building on Christmas Eve. OK, maybe it is hard to beat that...

Wait, Santa speaks English??

2010-12-24T13:08:00.002+02:00

Dec 17th was the last day of school before the Christmas break. Guess that makes it the last day of this year too. The Ruth students were excited because they knew it was a special day with parties, a program, and most importantly a visit from Santa. (Moș Crăciun) A generous donor from Germany provided gifts for each student and the bright bags were full of goodies! The classes did Christmas skits for their fellow students, the staff, and for the parents in the audience. It was a wonderful celebration. (even if Santa didn't speak a lot of Romanian - it was Ralph behind that white beard!)

Project Ruth Staff Lunch

2010-12-16T22:01:00.002+02:00

Today was the Project Ruth staff lunch. The weather outside was frigid but the fellowship inside was warm. We were suprised when Tita, the Ruth School director, out on medical leave, came in. She was greeted warmly with kisses and hugs. The food was yummy and the laughter contagious. We dined on traditional Romanian cheeses and meats, followed by delicious desserts. Secret Santa was at work as each person received a gift but didn't know who it was from. It was a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas and for the Project Ruth administration to show the staff how much they are appreciated.

Update & Prayer Request

2010-12-14T10:12:00.005+02:00

Many of you know Alex Ghitsa, student coordinator and translator for the Gypsy Smith Leadership Training School with Project Ruth. Alex's mother lost her battle with cancer Thurday, Dec 9th. Please pray for their family to have peace and be comforted during this time of grief. Alex was serving at the December session of the GSS when he received the news.

Thank you for praying for our resident permits. We turned in all of our paperwork today and everything was accepted without a problem. Now we wait... Please pray all will go smoothly and we will receive long term permits.