At the end of Peru, our Eastern European countries were announced: Albania and Romania. I immediately became super excited. I was actually signed up for a trip to Albania summer of 2009, but due to lack of interest, the trip was canceled and to Peru I went. (and we all know how that turned out). Romania has always been on my heart. Ever since I started missions, I have felt led to go there. But the Lord has been having me wait until this time. But before Romania, comes Albania. And can I just say how excited I am about Albania and the 2nd chance the Lord has provided for me to go there! But before I go there, let's have a little country lesson why don't we.
Let's start with some facts about Albania:
Albania has the distinction of being the largest Muslim-majority sovereign country wholly within Europe.
There is a population of over 3,000,000 people in a country the size of Maryland.
It is surrounded by the countries of Greece, Montenegro, Kosovo and Macedonia and the Adriatic Sea.
Weather varies from all different parts of the country. Inland vs coast and elevation are major factors.
Albania is a poor country. 58% of the labor force is agriculture
Religions: 70%(or more) muslims, 20% Orthodox Christians, 10% roman catholic
I think my team will be located in Korce. On the Southeastern side of Albania. Not too sure of the details yet. But look how close we will be to Greece! Free day adventure. I think so!
Ministry this month will be college age students. We will be working with Campus Crusades at universities in Albania. I am super excited about this ministry.
We will be spending time with the 'elite' in the country. If someone is in university, that means they have money, influence and a future. And knowing the majority of the people in Albania are muslim, we better know some information about Islam.
Islam is a monotheistic religion (believes in one God) with the Qur’an as the text which is to be the word of God. Muhammed was considered the last prophet of God.
There are 5 pillars to the Muslim faith which are obligatory for members of the faith:
1.) The creed (Shahadah) which is “There is no other God than Allah and Muhammed is his prophet”
2.) Ritual prayers (Salah) performed 5 times a day. Prayers are said in Arabic and consist of Qur’an quotes. Prayer takes place in a mosque.
3.) Fasting (Sawm) from food and drink from dawn to dusk during the month of Ramadhan.
4.) Alms-giving (Zakat) which is an offering for the poor and needy to be helped.
5.) Pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca is required at least once during a lifetime if able.
