Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus, dear prayer partners,
We are facing significant challenges at the beginning of this year 2024, and I ask for your strong prayers. In Sohodol, our small group of believers is going through difficult times.
The first situation involves Sister Dorica from Sohodol (pictured with Mihaela and Alin). Mihaela, Sister Dorica's niece, and her husband Alin (who are not believers) recently renovated a kitchen together. After the New Year, Alin moved back to his parent's home in Sohodol, both stating that they needed some time apart as their relationship was struggling. They have been married for almost 10 years and do not have children. This situation has deeply affected Sister Dorica and has impacted our church in Sohodol. Alin's non-believing parents are also troubled, as they care deeply for Mihaela. In other cases, I've encountered, such separations, especially among young couples, often lead to unfavorable outcomes.
The second situation, also in Sohodol, involves Sister Viorica, who received the heartbreaking news that her married son passed away suddenly at the age of 65. This extremely sad news has crushed Sister Viorica and left her bedridden. She is currently in Deva, at another son's place, undergoing investigations due to her deteriorating health. Sister Viorica is one of the most faithful sisters in our Sohodol church.
The third situation is about Sister Felicia from Sohodol, who took in a 7-day-old abandoned baby girl at the hospital almost two years ago (this February, the girl, Alis, turns 2). Recently, the child protection authorities informed Sister Felicia that another family wishes to adopt Alis. This situation is very challenging for Sister Felicia and her family because they have grown deeply attached to Alis and cannot bear to lose her. After the New Year, they plan to take further steps to legally adopt Alis through Sister Felicia's daughter, Lidia, who is married and unable to have children. Losing Alis would be a significant tragedy for Sister Felicia and her family.
Prayer Requests:
Mihaela and Alin, that their family may be restored.
Sister Dorica is deeply saddened by the situation.
Alin's parents are also distressed.
Sister Viorica, that the Lord may comfort her in this great sorrow and grant her health.
Sister Felicia, that Lidia may successfully adopt Alis (in Romania, legal processes can be challenging).
For me and my family, the motto for this year is Psalm 16:8 - "I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken." Lord, help us, Lord, grant us victory.
Florin Botar - PIEI Romania Missionary