about

Hmm, about me. Well, I came to live in Romania around the end of February 1997 and just wanted to make myself available to what God wanted. I soon learned that His desire was for me to take in some kids who spent most of their lives in an orphanage. I came from South Orange County, California and opening my home to five young men would be a challenge to say the least. From the time they first came to live with me, I felt (and still do) so inadequate. Who am I to try and teach these guys a somewhat normal life? I heard stories of their time in the “Casa de Copii” (orphanage) how there was little or no authority in their lives which showed them love while teaching them how to grow as a person.

My desire was to be that loving authority figure, pointing them to    the Greatest Love…Jesus Christ. I wanted to be able to provide for  them a “home” not a place they could just eat, sleep and shower. In the past nine years, some of these who have come into my home have made me dad in their hearts. I am completely humbled how God has done so much in their hearts and lives, and blessed He allowed me to see His work firsthand.

I chose Jeremiah 29:11 because I love how this verse screams “dependency on God.” How many times have we questioned God’s way of answering our prayers? Focusing on our situations instead of keeping Him the center? Taking back the very troubles we “leave” at His feet? I especially like how they are HIS plans and shouldn’t be our own. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I used this verse as a crutch MANY times throughout the past number of years. I knew then and I am convinced, God loves these guys way more than I ever could. His thoughts toward them are of peace after most of their lives have been lacking in joy, love and peace.

Not only for the boys, but He has my future full of hope. These past couple years I went through the “empty nest” syndrome. It hit kinda hard and I now understood why my parents cried each time I left from visiting them as an adult. I have often wondered what God had in store for my future. With a little more free time, I have been able to visit other cities and ministries; Bucuresti, Ploiesti, Targoviste, Cioranni, Draganesti…..just to name a few. On a number of those visits, some have asked me to come and move there.

Well after a considerable amount of prayer and what I believe is His hand leading, I am moving to Brasov. I have seen one of my guys mature so much, he is now serving as the President of an Association which ministers to orphans, prison inmates and serves as an Elder in the church, Calvary Chapel, Brasov.

I have been asked to come along and help out with the vision of the Crossroads Coffee shop which will reach out with the Love of Christ to the community.

I would covet your prayers for God’s wisdom, strength and capable hands to enable the team here in Brasov to be full of His love and grace in ministering to the people in this big city.

Domnul sa va Binecuvanteze !!