September 2026 Prayer Letter

News from Norman:

Baptism in Përmet

When I asked Ari (25) if he wanted to be baptized during our planned church retreat to Përmet, Albania, he did not hesitate to say yes.

As we drove down the road leading to the river, the path became increasingly overgrown with shrubs, and I began to wonder if we were even on the right road!

Once we arrived, the walk to the water proved a bit challenging, but it was well worth the effort, especially on such a hot day. The river was flowing too swiftly for us to stand safely in it, so we decided to use a nearby spring-fed natural pool for the baptism instead.

What a joy it was to witness Ari publicly identify with Christ through believer's baptism. We thank the Lord for His work in Ari's life and for the privilege of seeing another young man take this important step of obedience and discipleship.

New Church Rental

It was such a blessing to have Rimi help us find and work through the details of our new church rental in Tirana. I greatly appreciate his willing spirit and strong work ethic.

His assistance required a great deal of patience, as several of the properties he located ultimately did not work out. Nevertheless, he remained faithful throughout the process and continued searching until the Lord provided the right place.

We are thankful for Rimi's servant-hearted attitude and the many ways he has been a help and encouragement during this important transition.

End-of-Summer Visit

It was a tremendous encouragement to welcome Pastor Greg and Merri Ellen Wright, who traveled all the way from the great state of Utah. Our church family truly enjoyed getting to know them and hearing Pastor Wright preach.

During their stay, we visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Berat, Albania. Standing within the ancient castle walls, I was reminded of how often foreign powers seized control of the fortress, which was originally built to protect Albanians from invading forces.

While touring, Pastor Wright asked a museum host what religions are practiced in the area today. The host shared some statistics, but then added, "Really, money is now the main religion."

His words were a sobering reminder of how easily people can place their trust in the wrong things. They may trust in riches that can quickly disappear (Proverbs 23:5). They may seek security in a tower built by man rather than in the name of the LORD, who is a strong tower (Proverbs 18:10).

We are thankful for every opportunity to share with others that true security and lasting hope are found in Him alone.

News from Mary:

What an incredible and event-filled summer it has been here in Albania! We were blessed to host two wonderful retreats with our church family, and our ladies' group has continued to enjoy rich fellowship in between all the summer activities. Looking ahead, we are already planning our next retreat in October.

Even more exciting, God has answered a prayer we have carried for years: we have finally secured a new home for our church!

Our new space is a bright, two-room, second-floor storefront located close to most of our congregation and already familiar to many. It features full-length windows, a coffee bar area that we are equipping as a small kitchen, and a lovely, shaded balcony that will be perfect for coffee, fellowship, and outdoor Bible studies.

We still have some work ahead of us before we settle in, including painting, deep cleaning, installing air conditioning, and setting up the kitchen. Our goal is to be moved in by mid-October.

Prayer Requests:

Smooth Transition to Our New Rental Facility in Tirana

Please pray as we continue settling into our new rental facility in Tirana. We are grateful for God's provision and ask that this facility would serve as an effective tool for gospel ministry and discipleship.

Witnessing Opportunities at Our New Location

Please pray that God would open doors for meaningful conversations and provide opportunities to share the Gospel with neighbors, visitors, and members of the community.

Growth Through Fall Discipleship and Mentoring

As we begin our fall discipleship and mentoring efforts, please pray for spiritual growth among those who are participating.