April 2023 Prayer Letter

News from Norman:
Welcome home
I remember when we first moved to Albania as missionaries, a young Albanian believer greeted us at the airport and made it a point to say "welcome home!" It was an interesting choice of words, for this new country, far from the one we knew, was now to become our home. As I think of my father’s passing on Valentine’s Day, I am reminded of a passage that was extensively highlighted in his Bible. In 2 Corinthians 5:8, Paul reminded the Corinthians with confidence that when (believers are) absent from the body (they are) present with the Lord. The Greek word for ‘present‘ is the same word used for ‘home’ in verse 6. What a blessing that my father is now truly home and sharing in his Master’s joy (Matthew 25:23).

It was a privilege to be able to return to the States to be with my family during their loss. The testimonies that many shared about my father were comforting and uplifting throughout the funeral. By God’s grace, I was even able to deliver a short sermon for the service. I was truly encouraged by the cards, emails, and support and prayers that were given on behalf of our family during this time of bereavement. Thank you all so very much!

News from Mary:
These last months have been difficult ones as we said our goodbyes to Norm’s father, Dave Brewer, who passed away February 14, 2023. We were able to attend the funeral and visit with our family. Norm’s mom, Janet, is living in their family home with her youngest son, Perry. My dad, David Earnhart, is suffering with stage 4 prostate cancer. My parents have moved to Michigan to live with my brother, Jonathan, and family. Jonathan has taken on a huge task to remodel a house where everyone can live together. This allows them to have some independence, yet someone is always available to assist them. My sister, Ruth Ann, is still living in an adult foster home in Minnesota, but we are working to transfer her to a foster home in Michigan. I am so thankful for our families and how they are all assisting to care for each other. Please keep them in prayer and they all go through these transitions.

This year, we are planning a family camp so that everyone can attend. I am especially thankful for this change as there will be many more women to help me with the meals and activities! We are planning to rent a large house or apartment with a meeting area. We found that a hotel-style accommodation did not encourage unity as much as a home.

We are planning to do a 12-week ladies' Bible study. There are a number of women who are interested in studying together. This would be a great encouragement to all of us!

Children’s program has been a struggle. Since I was in the States for two months caring for my family and attending the funeral, it has been a challenge to keep the kids coming. Lejla too is in the states until May. The college group have worked hard to keep the program going, but have met with resistance. Please pray that the children and mothers will return to church.

Easter is upon us and we are excited to have dinner on the grounds. We have invited some of our neighbors who have promised to attend. This is a direct answer to prayer.

I continue to receive my Botox injections for migraines every 12 weeks in Greece. I have a bit of difficulty as 41 injections can get overwhelming! I passed out and was unconscious for 2 minutes on the last visit! The drive to Greece is tiring and long. Praise the Lord, we have not had long waits at the border, nor any heavy traffic. In Thessaloniki, we always stop at IKEA for lunch!

Thank you for your faithful prayers! We look forward to our next furlough to see your faces and thank you in person!

Prayer requests:

• Family Camp planning

• New Ladies' Bible Study

• Children’s program struggles

• Mary’s migraines and health

• Apologetic training and discipleship with Eli

• College/Career group parents (many unsaved)

• Tani’s wife Monda (spiritual needs)

• Mary’s sister RuthAnn (for details to be worked out for her to transfer to Adult Foster Care in Michigan)