Serbia has been a dream come true, I have thought about what life on the mission field would be like for many years now, and my time in Serbia surpassed my expectations. My team’s time at Kamp Mrcajevci was such a healthy way to begin our Race. I would say that my team and I didn’t dive headfirst into the world of ministry; we have only dipped our toes into the pool at this point. But, we were blessed to have a very comfortable start to this journey. We had air conditioning, bunk beds, full sized pillows to lay our heads on, and a hot shower each night. We had the privilege of living in a small village in the country, which allowed us to have many nights of fellowship and worship around a campfire while the stars lit up the sky.
Our hosts, Karl and Julie loved us so well, and gave us the opportunity to love them well right back. We filled our first month of ministry with memories of staining the cabins, hauling branches to keep the campfire going, cleaning dishes, serving meals, having fellowship and wonderful nights of worship with the campers. Julie and Karl love the camp, their staff, the campers, and more importantly our God something fierce and they have started a movement here in Serbia. Their camp is open during the summer, because the Serbian weather permits them to have outdoor seating for meals, sessions and worship. But, the remainder of the year it is much too cold to be outside. Karl and Julie have a dream to add an addition and expansion to one of the main buildings at the camp that would allow them to minister all year here in Serbia. This expansion would add a story to the building to have indoor meeting rooms as well indoor seating for all the meals. They recently created a website to begin the process of collecting donations towards the addition to their camp. If you feel led, this is a wonderful opportunity to expand God’s Kingdom here in Serbia. You would be a part of giving the opportunity for many people hear the good news, in a culture where God’s love is not easily heard. To give to the Kamp Mrcajevci building project, go to:
https://raisedonors.com/cefonline/individual-missionary and write E2RS0072275 Serbia-Camp Good News-Building/Construction in the Comment box.
For an update on where I am on my Race, I am at what is called debrief. This is a special time for my entire squad that happens 4 times, after the 1st month the last month and when we move between continents. Our leadership back in the states travels and meets us for sessions, one on ones, and worship. We get to spend time together as an entire squad, which is such a precious time, as we split into teams and don’t have many opportunities to see the other 38 people that make up I “Ignited” Squad. But, exciting news, this upcoming month, month 2, Romania is ALL SQAUD! This only happens once during our 11 months and means all 44 people will live in the same city, live under the same roof, and do ministry together for the entire month! Being thrown into constant Christian community with 5 other girls has rocked my world. I have a feeling that All Squad month will feel something like living in a petri dish, but I am excited to see what lessons will be learned from the influence and wisdom of living side by side 43 others as I enter month 2.
Here is my team, Beloveds as well as our host’s daughter, Kelli. Thank you so much, Bannert Family for inviting us into your home, becoming our Serbian family, and loving us so very well.
XOXO Elizabeth
