Bates

“INASMUCH as you have done it unto the least of these,

my brethren, you have done it unto me.” Matthew 25:40

December 2, 2005

Dear Friends of the widows and orphans,

When we came to Romania 15 years ago, open doors abounded. People were hungry for anything other than the godless false religion called communism. Even though they promised the people "every thing in common" like the book of Acts, but by force and without God, every religion fails. Lies, betrayal, brain-washing, fear, threats, deprivation were a way of life.

They destroyed the Braille Bibles from the poor, helpless blind. They put orphans, the handicapped, and the mentally ill, in prison-like institutions in order to hide them from society. The "new man of communism" certainly had no place for those God exalted. Our God even made the test of our faith, not to be mere words, but our love and care for those the world despises.

If you really want to be an effective witness, you must become involved in humanity. They will SEE our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven.

He has allowed us to print the Bible in Braille for Romania and the Republic of Moldova (which is still a communist country).

The orphans captured the hearts and minds of people all over the world. But few realize that those that were rejected by society and were left to fight for survival in the hell-holes called "Children's Homes" were cruelly and mercilessly cast out of the only home they ever knew to fight again for survival on the streets in the best way they could. Stealing, lying, prostitution, pedophilia, poverty, prison were their only options, or so they thought. But God cared for them even though the world did not.

God has privileged us to have three homes for these rejected orphan girls, street kids who want to leave the streets, and mothers and their children who had to live on the street. They were given a safe place to live in Jesus’ Name. In all we have taken over 300 out of Satan's cruel clutches. Many were able to find a place in society, some went back to the streets, and 44 orphan girls are still with us. They live in a beautiful home. Some are working and some are so handicapped, they can never be reintegrated into society. All suffer physical and emotional scars from their past life in the horrid orphanages. Some of our girls were snatched from the very hands of the pimps and brought to our homes.

Such Kingdom work as this infuriates the devil and his wicked servants. He wants us all to bow to His lying temptations and bear his rotten fruit... misery, unhappiness, deceit,, abuse (especially of children and those that God gives special attention), divided families, hatred, wars, and everything evil and against God.

Our life here in Romania has changed immeasurably since getting more involved in broken humanity. We have been blessed much more than we could ever help them. For example, there is a great open door among the gypsies. God has stirred their hearts to hunger for knowledge of Him. Praise God for that. Ron’s major emphasis is teaching and preaching in their villages.

All this could not have happened without the prayers and friendship and physical help from God's people. We get no help from the government - everything is channeled through the hands and hearts of wonderful Saints of God. God chose it to be this way....not only for our blessing, but that He will be glorified through His people who act and react differently than the world.

Because of Katrina, many people were touched by that need (and rightfully so), but overseas ministries often have suffered. We believe that this will be only temporary. These handicapped girls don't understand the world's many crises and tragedies, only their present vulnerability and dependence on you and me, by God's grace, to supply their every need. So far, He has, but now times are very difficult.

Many have asked about the urgent needs. Winter is upon us and we need to buy wood, radiators for Bolintin, heating system for one home in Ciorogirla, replace plumbing, paper for printing the Bible in Braille, divide the bedrooms into separate, rooms, carpet, three washing machines and two dryers, two computers for their classes, etc.

We have some stories called "Children of the Night" on our website. www.inasmuch.ro We have a video of the work at www.inasmuch.ro. This is a perfect tool for evangelism and to soften hardened hearts through the lives of these girls. If God, without limit, loves these cast-off "Ragamuffin dolls"...... He certainly loves us, who are without any merit.

If you would like a copy, you can download it if you have a high speed connection (or go to an Internet Café) or write and we will send a copy.

May God richly bless and keep us all until we see Him face to face and begin to more fully know what a God of love we really serve. Shalom,

Ron and Sue Bates

Thank you, God for restoring the health of Ron and me... the trials are so great. If you throw a rock at the devil (by doing good) he will dump a truck-load on your head. Never give up doing good! We will be rewarded for giving even a cup of cold water in the Name of our Lord.

November 6th, 2005

Greetings from a beautiful Romania,

Because our girls were raised in such deprivation and abuse and neglect, they suffer from multiple health problems. We have to spend hundreds of dollars a month for dentist, doctors, medicine, vitamins, and tests. One girl, Elena, needs special care because she has epilepsy, is severely damaged because of a lifetime of malnutrition, has become uncontrolable and violent. There is no place to send her.......no one wants her.

And yet the Department of Child Protection (so-called) wants our foundation closed. A governmental agency, whom we visited, who is over them said this was clearly a case of abuse and harassment of us. The court will tell us their decision this next week. Thank you for your prayers for these girls.......keep on praying. They deserve our help.

Regarding my health problems and the abdominal tumor. The doctors said it is most certainly benign and surgery isn't so urgent at this time. I was admitted to the hospital because one of our workers noticed I was yellow in color. I had no energy and knew something was wrong. She is also a nurse and said I had severe anemia and needed blood tests. My hemoglobin was so low, the doctors said I wouldn't last another five days. They kept me in the hospital and gave me blood and what a miracle took place! It saved my life. But much damage was done because of a lack of blood and oxygen to my organs. My heart and lungs started failing, but thank God, He brought me through this valley. And because my pancreas started getting blood, it started working. They were giving me heavy doses of insulin because my blood sugar level was 300 - 400. Then, I started producing insulin like I should......and then received too much insulin. I went into insulin shock and almost died from that...my blood sugar went down to 26. Doctors and nurses were soon there there trying to revive me because they didn't want an American dying in their hospital.....and because they cared. They said I would have to take insulin all my life. But because of this crisis....I said I was too afraid and wanted only to take tablets. My blood sugar is normal now without insulin.

Praise God for His mercy and grace. There is power in His blood and power in the blood He put in our bodies. I sincerely believe that several years ago if I had gotten a blood test and started taking iron......that I would still have my leg and eyesight. My eyes started improving after they got some blood circulating. Amazing, but it shouldn't be. God told us the key to life and good health is in the blood. My urgent plea is for you all to get blood tests to see if you are anemic. Anemia can cause a multitude of problems and even death.

Seven percent of American children are anemic and over fifty percent of Romanian children. It can cause major health problems, retardation, and even death. Pity and warn anyone with this problem.

I thank God for you every day.......for life and friends He has sent our way. For all who sent emails, letters and telephoned us......it made me feel so good and happy.

Sometimes I get so depressed beause of all the stress and problems with the court. Someone said if you throw a rock at the devil, he will dump a truck-load on your head. We threw rocks at him by rescuing these orphan girls from the wicked, dangerous streets....and some even from a life of prostitution just to survive......and the devil was angry. He is very revengful. Vengence is God's - not his.

Leviticus 17:11 "For the life of the flesh is in the blood..."

We love you and thank God for you every day..........sue and ron

September 21, 2005

KATRINA washed away a city and at the same time washed open an ugly sore that has been festering for a long time. There were many, many acts of heroism - people risking their lives for their families and neighbors and even strangers. And that is the way it is supposed to be. But when the world heard how despicably some acted - they were horrified. The Muslims and Communists said, "I told you so - this is what America is really like... their so - called freedom and Christianity are a farce."

What would cause a people in a time of great crisis to rob, loot, destroy, burn, rape children, snatch babies from their mother's arm is just to insure a seat on the bus? Is it our welfare system? Is it because people's minds are twisted and hearts are hardened from watching violence and pornography on TV? Is it because we are living in the last days and men are without natural affection? Is poverty the reason? Racism? Governmental failure? Or not enough churches?

Preachers and politicians will forever be seeking answers. But for certain, we know that the ones who acted in an animalistic way were not following the principles of the lowly man of Galilee who laid down His life for even His enemies.

Years ago, the mainstream churches left the ghettos and moved to the suburbs... leaving a spiritual vacuum in their culture. All the money in the world cannot heal this deep wound of the soul. The only way... is the way of the cross. We must take the gospel to the criminals, the outcasts, the poor, the marginalized... the message of love and forgiveness is our only hope.

FLOODS IN ROMANIA: The devastation caused by months of flooding got very little media attention. In some areas it rained night and day for three months. The water was so swift that graves were washed open. It was impossible to bury the bodies. Very little has been given to help the suffering. (And now the rains have started again - and it is very serious. Pray that the rain will stop.) They could have gotten millions from the European Union, if the president would have declared it a national emergency... but he didn't. The damage in our immediate area is due to heavy rains destroying roofs. We are glad to be able to help when we can.

Do you know the difference between relative poverty and abject poverty? When Jesus said "Blessed are the poor." what and who did He mean? Is it a blessing to be poor and starving?

PERSONAL NOTE: My eye was doing better after surgery, but I had a hemorrhage two times and lost my sight. It is now improving... so please pray that it will heal.

GIRLS' HOME IN BOLINTIN: Some of them have jobs in a sewing factory. We are hoping they will not get bored and cause problems and will be able to keep working. We have several needs to pray about: winter is coming on and we need coats, winter boots and clothing, blankets, firewood, radiators for the new room, three new washing machines, two dryers, and two computers. So many of them are constantly sick because of their past abuse in the orphanages. Every week, we have to go to the doctors and dentists with some of them. Several have kidney stones and might need surgery if the treatment doesn't work. This is all very costly, but they have no one else to care for them. Please pray for them.

September 30 is the trial date: the Romanian government vs. the orphans and outcasts. Who do you think will win?

May God bless and keep us all in His gentle care, Sue and Ron

Psalm 68:4,5 "Sing unto God, sing praises to His name: extol Him that rideth on the heavens, by His name JAH, and rejoice before Him. A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in His holy habitation."

Ron and Sue Bates

June 12, 2005

Psalm 82:3,4 "Defend the poor and the fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and the needy. Deliver the poor and the needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked."

PRAY that the officials that want to close our homes for abandoned mothers, children and young women will have a change of heart. Our crime: we took in too many without their permission; we didn't give bribes when they hinted for a gift; we were not able to get the homes up to European standards as fast as they wanted. They told us to put them out - even back on the streets and we didn't and wouldn't. For those of you who sent special offerings to help with the remodeling, we give thanks. We aren't finished, but have come a long way. Pray that these officials will see these outcast girls and children through eyes of love and grace and not the letter of the law.

When a young orphan girl comes to us after being rejected all her life and put on the streets......and she asks for shelter from the pimps and perverts......are we supposed to say, "Sorry, we can't take you in until we raise money for Thermo-pane windows so we can get a license to keep you. Be ye warmed and filled."

When a mother comes to us in the freezing night with her three small hungry children with no place to go, we cannot say that we don't have enough square footage or bathrooms....so go back to the streets where they might be raped or killed. In our opinion (and we believe the Bible's) justice and grace lets them in and law shuts them out.

PRAY that God will alter their opinion and quest to shut down private homes for children. We want to work peacefully with the officials, not against them. We will all be blessed if we are on God's side. Pray that God will grant us favor in their sight and that they will give us the license we need.

Will God desert His orphans and let them lose the only home they have ever known? I think not because He is their Father.

He is the Father to the fatherless.

Prayer can move mountains and change stubborn, greedy hearts. Please pray earnestly for these oppressed children and young women. Psalm9:9 "The Lord will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble."

PRAY for Sue Wednesday, the 15th pf June. She will finally have the eye surgery needed on her right eye. Damage done by an eye injury and diabetes hopefully can be corrected. The doctors say she has a 50/50 chance of saving her eye. They will do cataract surgery on her left eye later. Other than that, she is doing great and waiting for her prosthesis to be made.

PRAY: Continue to pray for Mariana, our co-worker, who works on the Bible in Braille. She is only 40, but had a stroke. She was paralyzed on her left side, but is now able to walk a little. She thanks you for your prayers.

PRAY for the work printing the Bible in Braille We took 16 blind and handicapped believers to Moldova for camp. They had a great time of fellowship, food, singing and preaching. For these who are forced to spend most of their time in their apartments, this was a great treat. They give you thanks for helping them to make this special trip to be with other suffering Saints.

PRAY for those all over the globe that are working with "children at risk". Satan's days are numbered and he delights in trying to make people's lives (especially chuldren's). so miserable that they will curse God instead of bless Him. But our God evokes the praises of men, women, and children, even in ihe midst of their suffering. My, what an incredible God we serve.

GREAT NEWS: We are grandparents! Dana and Brandi had an 8 pound 10 ouncre baby girl named Briana. They are in California and willl return in August to resume their camp ministry. Pray for Briana and her parents!

We love and appreciate you all.......sue and ron

May 15, 2005

Dear Friends,

We hope this message finds you all well and rejoicing in the Lord. We are rejoicing because of the kindness and generosity you have shown us and the needy orphans and outcasts of Romania and Moldova .

It always makes us feel so good to know there are brothers and sisters like you all supporting us in prayer and fellowship. The needs are so great in these so-called former communist countries. Needs are both physical and spiritual.

Because kind believers like you help us to help others, it opens the door for the gospel. We just don't tell them: "Be ye warmed and filled," but are able to help in a substantial way so they will know that someone cares for them, not just in word, but in deed.

There are many, many examples of how the fellowship gifts are spent. Because the economy is so horrendous, the people are struggling to survive. And, of course, the children and elderly suffer the most.

We have a program called, "Baby Smiles". We give milk, food, clothing to mothers so they won't have to abandon their children. We work with a children's hospital in nearby Bolintin Vale. The administrator told me they have no abandoned babies in their hospital! Abandonment is very common because if a mother doesn't have enough food for her baby, she will take it to a hospital, pretending it is sick, and leave it.

But, at the hospital where we help, the lady doctor said that if a mother is thinking about abandoning her newborn, she is given clothing, milk and whatever she needs and tells her to come back in three months to see if she still wants to give up her child. The doctor said a mother has never come back because this gives her time to bond with her child.

Because of such kind of help, we find it easy to tell of Christ's love for the mother and child. Their appreciation and response is incredible.

We also have the privilege of helping poor families who have no jobs, but have large families to feed. This is mostly in the gypsy villages. When a gypsy comes to Christ, that usually means that they are without a job. Some were involved in questionable activities and when they came to Christ, they stopped their dishonest practices. They have a very difficult life.

We also help homeless mothers and children to have a place to stay until they can be reintegrated back into society. We feel like they should work and be independent, whenever possible.

We have a ministry to the street children - taking them food and clothing and the love of Christ for their pitiful lives. This is a very, very difficult ministry, because most of them immediately get on drugs and involved in illegal activities just to survive. We have been told by the religious leaders to stop helping them and to begin helping someone who deserves our help. So, this is a wonderful opportunity to tell them that none of us deserve God's grace......it is unmerited and free to all.

Our major ministry is the girl's home in Bolintin Deal. We have about 50 girls who were raised in the hell-holes called orphanages and then put out on the cruel streets when they turn 18, totally unprepared for what they face. The pimps and perverts are waiting for them at the train stations where most of them go to beg. We have been privileged to rescue these poor, pitiful girls. All their lives, they suffered abuse, neglect, and rejection. Now, they have a place of safety and security. They now suffer from physical and behavioral problems due to a lack of proper food and parental love. But, with God's grace and help, we want to help them be all that God would want them to be.

Most of them have come to Christ and desire to know Him more fully.....even with their handicaps.

Please pray that God will provide all their needs according tp His riches in glory. Because Romania is going to enter the European Union next year, they are requiring the private institutions to make their homes according to Western European standards. For example, we are too crowded and must add on extra rooms and 8 more bathrooms. This is quite expensive, but God owns the cattle on a thousand hills and cares deeply for these outcast girls.

May God be with you in a special, intimate way for giving to Him through them. Please remember "the least of these, my orphans and street kids," as you celebrate the august privilege of receiving the call to go into all the world and preach the gospel.

2 Corinthians 8:9 "For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes, He became poor, that ye through His poverty, might be rich."

We love you and are praying for you.......Ron and Sue

"We are never more like Jesus than when we are choked with compassion for others."

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Sue couldn't have eye surgery because there was't a place in the hospital. It will be in 2 to 3 weeks, Lord willing. She is waiting for her prosthesis to be made so she can hopefully walk again. Ron is doing very well - stronger than before his stroke. The doctors said this is a miracle. Why do we call it a miracle when it is God's every day goodness and mercy.

Mariana, one of our office workers in the Braille Printing House - is in the hospital. She is only 40 years old, but has a blood leakage in her brain. She is paralyzed on her left side. Pray for her full recovery.

Daniela, wife of missionary, Martin Mallette, has a herniated disk and is in severe pain. Pray that she will not have to have surgery.

We have been given two extra weeks to finishe the repairs, remodeling. addition to Bolintin. Pray that we will accomplish this and receive accreditation for the glory of God and the good of these girls.

Pray that we will grow in the grace and wisdom of our gracious God.

Pray that we all will be privileged to reach more with the GOOD NEWS of the glorious gospel of love and forgiveness found only through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

April 17, 2005

The command to care for the widows and orphans (the helpless of this world) was given not primarily to governmental agencies, but to believers as a sign of their faith.

Before Communism, if a child was orphaned, the community and the churches helped raise the child. But since the communists believed that every individual is property of the state, they took it upon themselves to solve this problem by human reasoning. And human reasoning minus God is a disaster.. Ceausescu put children by the thousands into godless, parentless state institutions....even children that had poverty-stricken parents. They were improperly cared for - and that is putting it mildly. In fact, they were treated like animals and reduced to a state like an inhuman race.

When they turned 18, they were no longer wanted by these places that were more like a prison for children. They were totally unprepared for life - especially on the streets. Before the Revolution in 89, they gave them an apartment and a job, but now, there is no saftey net for them to fall into for temporary help. They fall right into the clutches of Satan and his wicked servants.Of course, they fall into illegal and immoral activities to survive. Their only future - without someone helping them - is poverty, prison, and prostitution.

When we left the States 14 years ago, we wanted a Christianity that was more involved in life. Just going to church every Sunday and Wednesday and then the rest of the week was spent in the "rat race" falsely called "life". When we came, we got involved in printing the Bible in Braille for those blind Romanians who had had their Bible stolen from them by the Communists after WW2. A few years later we went to the streets to see how we could help the street kids. A high percentage of them were from the orphanages. They were kicked out with no place to go. Since that time, the Lord has blessed us and them with a home for girls in Bolintin Deal and two homes for abandoned mothers and their children in Ciorogirla

You would think that everyone would be happy for what we are doing. Most are and this work is a great testimony of how God cares for the "least of these." But some peole could care less about "the least of these". and even oppose the help given them. "They don't deserve your help - their parents didn't want them and society doesn't either."....so I have heard about these kids. But these are the kind that shape society....if we care for them, we show our love and if we don't, we show our hardness of heart and become more hardened.

Romania was recently voted into the European Union (don't know if that is good - time will tell) and the governmental agencies are forcing the private organizations working with children to comply with EU standards...or they will close them down. The standards are very strict, but not so for rich Western European countries. We were recently told (last week) that we have three weeks to comply (or be well on the way) to the new rules. We have to remodel the kitchen in three homes, add 8 more bathrooms for Bolintin (we have completed two more, but now they say 8), put in Thermo-pane windows (we have already done so in one mother's home), plus many other changes are required. So, please pray that we will be able to do this - and soon. We are a faith-based people who are depending on God and His servants to help these girls keep their only place of safety they have ever known.

Anywone would be touched by the mothers and children, but the older girls in Bolintin are the ones that put me in tears every time I visit them. They were never wanted - thrown away at virth, passed by when someone wanted to adopt a child from their orphanage, rejected by the workers, thrown on the streets like a sick, unwanted puppy when they got too old to stay there, rejected by their government and by society. But God has chosen us to give them a chance in life they NEVER had. And Satan doesn't like this one bit. He wants them wallowing in the dirt and slime of the streets. Why? That is a mystery that we as upright citizens and Christians cannot understand. Perhaps it is because our work (including yours) with the outcasts of society open the doors that Satan thought were sealed shut. People wonder why we are doing what few even desire to do. It is the love of God that compels and constrains us to do what He would be doing. THEY SHOW US WHAT GOD IS REALLY LIKE. I only wish that each of you could come to visit these girls and see their big smiles and hear their words of gratitude for rescuing them.

Many of them say they know they would be dead if left on the streets.

Please pray that God would continue to supply their needs....and that they will continue to see God's hand on them and submit to their Heavenly Father's lovimg authority.

The government doesn't care if these girls and children are put out on the streets. Some high officials have told us this. Because we wouldn't give them bribes (money and expensive computers) they took us to court to make us an example of what would happen if others didn't go along with their blackmail.The case was thrown out of court as absurd, so these evil men went to a higher court Please pray for the judge that he will stop this evil toward our girls. The next trial date is May 6. Thankfully, there are good people in government who appreciate what we are doing and are trying to help us. Please pray tthat the ones who want to do evil deeds will submit to God's desire to help these girls. And pray for us that we will see this as an opportunity to do a better job as a testimony for God's care for them. Satan intends for their intervention to be for bad, but God will use it for good. But we, and other organizations that are trying to help these children are weary of the harrassment. We are doing what should be done for these orphans. Everyone has a responsibility to them - individuals, churches, governments. We will al stand before the King and tell what we did or did not do for the "least of these, my orphan girls." Pray that we will be a blessing to the Romanian people and government, and not a burden.

We love you all so much and pray for you daily - as you do us,

Sue and ron

April 10, 2005

The world watched in wonder at the gold and glitter and glorying in the life and death of the Pope. What did God think of this and was He there? Of course, He was there because He is omnipresent.

If you read the Bible carefully, you will notice that God's attention is always focused on the poor and outcasts...the widows and orphans.

If you were wondering where God was this week and what He was doing......I can assure you that He was with the little band of gypsies that gathered to pay their respects to an unsung heroine of the faith. She was buried the same day as the Pope....in the village of Golosei (pronounced Goloshei), Romania.

Georgita (prounouced Gorghitza) was widowed early in her marriage and was left with five children. She returned to the lord (as the Romanian believers call conversion) in 1977 and the closest church was five miles away. She walked every Sunday without fail, even in the harsh Romanian winters, until after the Revolution in '89 when they built a church near her house. She cried at the dedication, thanking God that she didn't have to make the long walk. She often had no shoes.

She remembered what it was like during those Communist years. She was persecuted not only because of her faith, but because she was born a gypsy. They threw rocks to break the windows at her church, cursed them, and mocked Jesus Holy Name. But this didn't deter her one bit.

Life was difficult in Romania, but more so for the gypsies, especially the widowed. She carved wooden spoons and sold them door to door to feed her family. There was no money in these villages, so she received a small amount of flour or corn meal in exchange. She left a legacy of hard work, perserverance and deep faith.

She was illiterate, but always reminded her children of her favorite verse, "Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee." God's Word was written on her heart and praise for her Savior was always on her lips.

In her later years, she became deaf, but that didn't stop her from singing with her beloved Saints. She remembered the words she learned at the little church where she was saved and watched the lips of other believers when they sang. They would sing: "Jesus is a pilgrim in this world of sin" and Jesus is always with me, everywhere I go." And that He was.

When she died, her family and Christian friends gathered at her bedside. She said to them, "When I was hungry, you brought me food, when I was cold, you brought me firewood, when I was sick and lonely, you visited me." And then she closed her eyes and went to sleep.

She died in a tiny, wooden shack with dirt floors. She never had enough food and clothes and often had to go barefoot. But they knew that God was with them in that room......unashamed of their outward surroundings. He, as did her many acquaintances saw her great faith in a God who loves all His creatures no matter what their color or country.

A little brown, wrinkled mother, so totally dedicated to her Savior, received from Him her crown of glory....her crown of rightousness reserved for those that love Him.

No pomp and ceremony down here for this little Saint who suffered a lifetime of pain and persecution and poverty. Yet all of Heaven rejoiced at her homecoming.

She was a founding member of the church in Golosei. She has left behind a large family - children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom are believers. Many in her village have returned to God" as a result of her witness.

Georgita, more than anything, wanted the love of Christ to always be seen in her life and for Him to be glorified in everything she did. And, according to the testimony of her friends and family, this is the way she lived and died.

This humble, illiterate, poor gypsy woman had found the key to happiness and spiritual riches.....something that no amount of money could ever buy.

From the Pope to the barefoot widow to every man, woman and child ever born, God's glorious message is still the same: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Ron & Sue Bates

February 27, 2005

HAVE YOU EVER FASTED AND PRAYED FOR ANYONE? A few weeks ago, one of the gypsy leaders from Golosei (Goloshea) came to tell me that their whole assembly was praying and fasting that Monday.for my health. I was so impressed and humbled. I had never prayed AND fasted for any of them and their many health problems. They are all so poverty-stricken and mal-nourished, and yet they willingly and lovingly made this sacrifice for me.

Several times, our gypsy friends have come over with their accordians and keyboards and played their beautiful, lively music. Have you ever felt like Heaven has come down to earth? I always feel this way when they come to "wash my feet." I feel cleansed and washed of the cares of life....if just for a moment in their presence. I love to hear them sing praises to the One who loves us all. The Lovely Name of Jesus graces the lips of these lowly brothers and sisters who are hungry for more of God's Word.

ANSWERED PRAYERS: I am blessed to have all our friends here in Romania, our girls, and our many friends in other countries praying for my recovery. God does answer prayer...He still is on His Throne even though the whole world seems to want to rob Him of His rule over His creation.

My leg is completely healed...glory be to God! I was fitted for a prosthesis and it will be ready in about 2 months. And in a month, I am supposed to have cataract surgery. I often wonder why God allowed this to happen....couldn't I do more for Him if I had been able to walk and drive and see better? When we left America in 1991, we didn't come here to bring God to Romania - He was already here working in their hearts. We knew that from the stories of Wurmbrand and the underground church. We came to be with the Romanian people in their suffering. Forty + years of Communism took its toll on this society and they still haven't recovered. Many had (and still have) the mistaken idea that money can solve all problems. "If you have money, you can have enough food and be healthier and if you get sick, you can buy good medical treatment." That is true - but not always. All the money in the world couldn't save my leg. I had to suffer this pain and loss just like anyone else. Maybe that is why God allowed this is to show the Romanian people that we in the West are no different than they. We are all human with human sufferings that none can escape.

TSUNAMI AFFECTS ROMANIA: Because so many people sent emergency funds to Asia, our fellowship gifts were way, way, down....in fact,we received about 1/3 of what we need for food, utilities, medicine, workers, etc. Pray that God will provide for these ex-orphans and street kids as He has in the past. They spent most of their nights in hunger and misery. We don't want them to suffer any more unnecessary deprivation. His grace has always been sufficient and we are trusting Him to be our source. For those of you who have been "His hand extended" to these needy ones.......we thank and praise God for you daily.

PRAY FOR ELENA: One of our handicapped girls is in need of prayer. We are concerned almost every day that she might die. She has epilepsy and severe health probl ems - mental and physical. She was raised in the orphanage system and had no place to live after they "graduated her to the streets". She is on anti-convulsent drugs, but still has seizures from time to time. We have tried to put her in a hospital many times to get "professional" help. We had to get insurance (and for the past four years since the time she was kicked out of the orphanage) and pay the administrator to take care of her (I am sure he put it in his pocket). While there, she was raped, put on strong valium, and sent back to us in two weeks, so drugged she was unable to get out of bed. And this is the only kind of help they could give her. She loves being with us and is full of smiles and sweetness. Pray for this young woman - that she will be strong and healed of her many illnesses. She is an inspiration to us all. She loves to hear and sing about Jesus. We wonder just how much she understands, but God fully knows her heart. Will you pray for Elena, especially? Pray that she will be released from the prison of her affliction.

Psalm 142:7 "Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me."

Savior, like a Shepherd lead us. Lead and care for us like the shepherds on the hills of Romania guard their sheep and tend to their every need - even of the most feeble and helpless.

Because of His indescribable grace and love.......sue and ron

February 20, 2005

Romans 8:31, 32 "What shall we say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him

also freely give us all things?"

PRAISE: Several months ago, the Department of Child Protection came for our office to inspect our homes. One of their inspectors asked for our computer as a "gift" (bribe). When we didn't give it or any money to him, they took us to court to try to close our foundation. I guess they wanted to make us as an example to other organizations of what would happen if they didn't get "a bribe" to influence them to give approvals. The judge threw the case out of court as their claims against us were ludicrous. Our girls were ecstatic over this victory against Satan. The "god of this world" would delight in having these examples of God's saving and rescuing grace put back on the streets. And why? Because they have been rescued from Satan's clutches and wicked influence....he wants to embarrass God by having them thrown back on the streets as bait for the pimps and perverts. This is an example of God's care and protection for "the least of these".

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST: The Department of Child Protection has required us to do the following in order to be legal and licensed:

1. Put Thermo Pane windows and doors on our homes.

2. Divide the attics into separate bedrooms (those that now sleep on the top floors are are in large rooms).

3. Add 3 rooms onto our kitchen - one for washing vegetables, one for preparing meat, and one for storage. (We completed that and then they said we have to add a separate bath and shower just for the cook - she can't use the one in the house, but must have her own.) We have just completed that.

4. Add another bathroom on both the mother's homes in Ciorogirla. (One is 1/2 finished).

5. Buy a special car to transport food. (A small pick-up with a covered back.

6. Put a large fence around the Bolintin girl's home (90% finished).

7. Add a large bedroom in Bolintin (80% finished).

8. Add two bathrooms in Bolintin.

The demands are great because Romania is being forced to comply with European Union standards. If we don't fulfill all their requests, they said the girls can go back to the streets. Three top officials told us we took in too many and they are our problem. We don't see what difference Thermo Pane windows or a private bath for the cook makes in their well-being, but we must follow their rules as much as humanly possible.

We want to have a good witness with the government and the Romanian people.

When we were making the report for their inspection and decision, we were amazed at how much has been done. Sometimes we get so discouraged because we see so seemingly little progress. But, we realized that over 60 former children at risk and outcast young women have come through our foundation and been reintegrated back into society - with a knowledge of the Lord, and having a place of safety and someone to care for them. They were helped by either finding the parents they never knew or helping to get a job and apartment.

PLEASE PRAY: At present, we are privileged to have 52 young women and 45 mothers and their babies still in our care. Please pray that God will provide for these very needy young Romanians. We want to provide the best for them - something they have never had. God still works everything out for good for His honor and glory....for those that love the Lord. And in spite of their handicaps and hardships and limited knowledge, they Love the Lord. You should hear them sing and pray. And some day you will.

Thank you for your passionate concern for this and all mission works. The dollar has fallen to an all-time low. We are losing 30% on the exchange rate. And prices have doubled. The economy is a disaster. Romania has the richest politicians and poorest people in all of Europe. The number of desperate people who come to our door is increasing.

God bless and help us all.............ron and sue

December, 2004

Greetings in Jesus Name to our Dear Friends

of the Gospel of Salvation and Restoration,

Zechariah 7:9,10

"Thus saith the Lord of Hosts: Execute true justice, show mercy and compassion, every one to his brother: Do not opress the widow or fatherless, the alien or the poor. Let none of you plan evil in his heart against his brother."

Christmas has ended and the New Year is approaching, As we reflect back on 2004, we thank God for all that He has done for "the least of these" that He has put in our lives. They have taught us more than we have ever been able to teach and change them. And maybe that is more necessary. They have helped us realize that we, too, are "the least of these" in God's sight. Whatever we do for or gainst every human being, we are doing for or against God Himself.

Your kindness in sending up prayers and gifts for these wonderful girls who had spent their former Christmases in cold, unfriendly, cruel orphanages or on the dangerous streets - without even the basic necessities of life - food, clothing, shelter, and human affection.

But God, in His wondrous way has provided a new home and new life for these little birds with broken wings and broken spirits. We thank God every day for placing them in our care to help them overcome a life of bitterness and deprivation. Only the Lord can restore everything that was stolen from them. Satan's locusts always tried to destroy everything beautiful in their lives, but God is a faithrul restorer and resurrector. He restores what He never took away.

We deeply thank every one of you who have had a part in the restoration of their lives. Right now, we are helping them to become what God wants them to be - even in their broken, handicapped bodies and minds. Their tears and hurts and brokenness will someday all be gone. But in Heaven, when you meet them, you will see that their many scars have become golden crowns. Thankfully, only in Heaven, Christ will wear the scars.

We love you so much for helping in so many ways.......Ron and Sue

November 7, 2004

EARTHQUAKE IN ROMANIA; The strongest earthquake in 15 years (6.3 on the Richter scale) hit Romania this week. Also affected were Bulgaria, Moldova, and Turkey. In 1977, 10,000 people were killed in Bucharest - so fear grips the hearts of everyone - especially those that live in the high-rise apartments. Many stayed on the streets all night in fear of after-shocks. Our house shook and pictures fell off the walls. I called our girl's homes and they were hysterical - screaming and crying. They have never experienced anything like this before. We were missionaries to Japan in the late '60's and experienced earthquakes every day - altho not this severe. Scripture declares there will be earthquakes in various places in the latter days.

CD by the INASMUCH FAMILY: Some of the orphan girls, small children, and former street kids have made a CD (or cassette, if you prefer) of their unique music for you. We would love to send you a copy. The cost? Whatever God lays on your heart. Some of those who made this recording were on the streets and want to help. The extra above costs will go to feeding and helping the homess, street kids, and poor that come to our door. Too, too many are on the cold streets with little to eat and not enough blankets. Their songs include: Thank You for Giving to the Lord by FloriBear (ex orphan girl); Change my Heart, Oh, God by Roberto (ex orphan and street kid); I Am An Orphan by the Bolintin Girls; songs by the small children; some Christian gypsy music and other songs.

DIASPORA IN ROMANIA and MOLDOVA: Thousands are leaving because of economic instability. Moldova has lost about one-third of her adult population to countries like Spain and Italy. Romania has suffered the worst of two worlds: the greed and godlessness of communism and now, the greed and godlessness of capitalism......as evidenced by the influx of pornography and all kind of evils they call the "river of filth" from the West. The best government (other than the one the Lord will set up when He returns) is capitalism with Christ as its center. People will be motivated to work not only for their family, but for those who cannot work. Ephesians 4:28 "Let him that stole, steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth." Acts 20:35 "I have showed you all things, how that so laboring you ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is mor

e blessed to give than to receive."

PRAY FOR ME (Sue): Because of the complications of diabetes, I lost my left leg last year....due to infection and gangrene. My leg is almost healed, but I developed a small sore that just won't heal. Pray that it will heal so I can get a prosthesis and walk again. Pray that my right leg will be healthy and not suffer the same fate. And Tuesday, I started a series of laser surgeries on my right eye. Last year, I was playing with Mihaela (whose mother is on the streets). She accidentally hit me very hard in the eye with a plastic toy. I should have gone to the doctor then because it was a serious injury. I have a badly damaged retna - partially detached that must be repaired. There is a 50/50 chance of success. Also, after that, I will have to have cataract surgery......a result of diabetes. I haven't done much corresponding because it is hard for me to see clearly....please forgive! Please pray that these eye surgeries will be successful and that I can have improved vision. God is able! Thank God for your eyesight and ability to walk. Ron is in very good health and feeling great - thank God.

I would, of course, love to be healed instantly, but will have to accept what God brings. Sometimes He delivers us from the whirlwind we create for ourselves (for me it was overeating unhealthy foods and not taking care of His temple)....and most of the time, He allows us reap what we sow. We seem to learn better that way.

BOLINTIN GIRLS: We have been encouraged lately that some of them have found work. Most of our girls are so handicapped (mostly socially), they will never be able to work and live independently unless they have help. Winter is coming rapidly and we are dreading the huge utility bills for 4 homes. God has always provided, but, oh me of little faith , still worries. All of our 50 girls at Bolintin never had any stability in their lives......never! They are so thankful for a home where they know we love them enough that we will never put them back on the streets - even when they misbehave. Some have asked us why we don't send them back to the streets when they act so bad and are unthankful.....and we tell them that the girls are a picture of God's grace - unmerited, but freely and generously given.

TESTIMONY OF ONE OF OUR WORKERS: Amalia came to work for us about a year ago. At first, it was very difficult and she didn't like the girls - only a favorite or two. But now, after being with them every week, she told me that they have changed her life and now couldn't think of life without them. She said she used to only love her friends and family, but these girls taught her how to love. They expanded her capacity to love. Praise God! But isn't that what difficult people, the handicapped, and even our enemies do.....they show us how unlike Jesus we really are and give us the opportunity to love and forgive.

Our prayer is that the love and forgiveness of God will be shown to everyone we encounter....not just in word, but in deed. Abundant love and thanksgiving for your prayer and care.......from Ron and Sue

October 2, 2004

Luke 11: 5-6 Which of you has a friend who will go to him at midnight and say to him, "Friend, send me three loaves, for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him."

This parable reminds me of the multitudes who come to our door, knocking, and begging for food for their children's empty stomachs. If their children are famished, most certainly,they are too. About three quarters are gypsies. We are many times discouraged from helping them. "They are gypsies - they don't deserve our help," they say. My reply is that none of us deserve God's mercies, but He causes the rain to fall on everyone. And did they ask to be born as raggedy children to poor parents in a village where there is little food, no jobs, and no hope?

When I go to the door with a bowl of hot soup in my stomach, I can hardly endure their malnourished appearance.. "Bread, please give us some bread." Aren't they sick of bread? Yes, they are, but it means survival for them. They would like to have bananas, milk, meat, fresh vegetables, clean water and things we unthinkingly take for granted.

Because of your generosity, we have been able to help many with food and many an empty heart with the "good news" of the gospel. They go together, as James says. How can we say to people, "be ye warmed and filled.....God bless you, go on your way," and expect them to believe that we seriously care about them.

You are like the friend we come to and ask for help for our friends in Romania and Moldova who have no bread. Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor, but not blessed are the starving." We cannot feed everyone, but we do what we can with what God lays on your heart.

The girls and mothers and small children in our care have never missed a meal. I worry that we will be in short supply every month, but God and His people have never let us down. Can you imagine feeding 100 every day, every meal........and about 300 street kids twice a week? plus those that come to our house every day? David never saw the righteous Israelites forsaken nor their seed begging bread......and we haven't either for those God has given us to care for. These are the outcasts of even the orphanages.......they were always passed by when someone came to adopt. No one wanted them. They were rejected by their parents when they were born, they were rejected by the social workers, they were rejected by the orphanage when they turned 18 and were heartlessly put out on the dangerous streets. They were rejected by their government when they gave them NO help...and still don't. But little did they know that God had His eye on these bruised and broken little sparrows and prepared a welcoming nest for them with us.

The girls were so used to living under such stress and torment in the orphanages where they were raised.....they can hardly believe that their good fortune will continue. A home, three meals a day, medical care, love....encouragement and instruction from the Bible......something they never had. They never had any security. Sometimes they hid their bread in their pockets in case they didn't have anything for the next meal. They ate chalk to give themselves a fever so they could go to the hospital and get some food......even though it was horrible and bland, it was better than in the orphanages. They sometimes ate the paint on the walls.......because they were hungry. Little did they know they were eating leaded paint and this would be the cause of so much of their mental and physical health problems. But no one stopped them.

Our prayer request is that we can help our orphan girls become all that God would have them be.

That we can point each street child to Jesus who wants them to have a better life than that on the streets with Satan's servants. That we can encourage each poor family - whether gypsy or Romanian - by helping them in some way physically and spiritually with the hope that when Jesus returns, justice will prevail on the earth and they will be recompensed for their suffering.....as we all will be, if we suffer for Christ.

We are in the "midnight hour" and our world is knocking on our door....not just for bread, but for the "Bread of Life."

May God bless and reward you generously (as he promised in Proverbs 19:17) for your compassion for "the least of these".

PRAY: We are printing "Gospels of John" in Afghani and soon in Iraqi languages for the refugees in Bucharest and to mail to their countries. We can't go there, but we can mail them to the libraries and refugee camps. Pray for their safe delivery. Pray for the war to end.

Pray for the continuance of the printing of the Bible in Braille for those who speak Romanian. (and portions of Scripture in Russian) What a blessing it is for them to have the Bible in their own language and to be able to read it with their fingers.

Pray that God will give us a Power-Point projector to be used in our work and also in the public schools to show Christian videos (like the Jesus Film and the Moody Science series).

Pray that God will give a large van for the girl's usage. They love to go to a neaby mental hospital to sing and witness for the Lord. This is possibly the only time these poor. pitiful, forsaken patients have any encouragement or visitors from the outside. Our girls love going and they, in turn, love having them visit. There are other places we could take them - orphanages, hospitals, churches, but transportation is a problem. These girls are a picture of God's kindness and grace and people need to know about how good our God really is. He is not a terrorist or tyrant like so many picture Him. He is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

Pray that we will be able to open an orphanage in the Republic of Moldova soon......before their dreaded winter arrives.

Pray that we will be able to lead those we meet in the paths of righteousness, for His name's sake.

Pray that God will give us the wisdom and passion needed to do His will.

September 4, 2004

THE POLITICS OF JESUS: In all the frenzy and zeal of the elections, never forget that we are first citizens of the Kingdom of God. Our allegience should first be to God and His platform. And His platform is found in the sermon preached by His beloved Son in the Sermon on the Mount. This message is rarely proclaimed because it does not fit in with our watered-down brand of Christianity. On BBC News, we heard George Bush's message to the Republican Convention. It was very impressive. And Kerry will, I am sure, have a message that will stir his followers.

We have a message in the life and words of Jesus that will change the world. Mankind is desperately looking for a leader they can trust and love. The Romanians put their hope in Ceausescu, the Chinese in Chairman Mao, the Cambodians in Pol Pot, the Japanese in their emperor. These were mere men and the end result of this strange kind of idolizing of mere humans ended in disaster and lost hope. They all brought shame to their people and on their country, Jesus' followers thought he had been defeated and shamed, but on the first Sunday after the crucifixion, they were wonderfully surprised. He showed Himself to be the Lord of life and death. The beautiful aspect is that His followers share in that life and death. It looks to be defeat sometimes, like the cross seemed to be, but NEVER is there defeat in the glorious resurrection.

Pray for wisdom in this confused and chaotic world. How should we vote? What does God want us to do? Try to find Heaven's point of view. What would Jesus do?

BLESSED ARE THE POOR: If it were not for the resurrection and victory in every aspect, life and death, it would be very discouraging to work with these social outcasts - the orphans and street kids. But, dear friends, we serve the Lord of life and death. He is stronger than every problem that either we or these girls may face. Though we may not know the answers now, Jesus knows and cares. Someone asked me if I would ever give up on these girls. And I replied that my whole Christianity is depending not only God's promises to me, but to them. He WILL someday release them from the chains that bind them physically, mentally, and spiritually. Just as he set us free from the chains of sin and bondage, he will release them to become all that He wills that they will be. They, like we all, are still burdened by our old nature tempting us to do wrong. Why aren't we on the streets, like they were?. I would be and am no different than they......but I had a Christian influence through our church, had wonderful parents and a wonderful, supportive family and many friends like you who would help me if I ever wanted to commit some major sin. You would teach me and love me back into the fold. They never had anyone to love them or care enough to get seriously involved in their lives. They only had their friends in the orphanages that were as confused as they were. We can never imagine the hell they lived through.

I asked the girls if they wanted to tell their story.....and several said they could never talk about their abuse and neglect. They are the poor of this world. Now, thanks to you generous, beautiful believers, they have everything they need. But they are still imprisoned in their minds. Pray that they will see that they are now free in Christ and do not have to act like they used to. They still think they have to manipulate and lie to people to get what they want. They had no security and could trust no one. Help them, dear Lord, to trust and rest in you......that you love them and will take care of them.

ROMI (GYPSY) CHILDREN: School is starting soon and many children will not be able to attend school because their parents don't have money for school supplies or shoes. Pray that we will be able to help many get the things they need. If these gypsy children do not get an education, they will never be able to break the cycle of poverty. Life is VERY difficult in their villages. Very few have jobs and food is scarce. Winter is coming on and suffering will increase. Our greatest times in Romania have been with the Romi. They love their children dearly and are so appreciative of any help we can give them. They are very open to the gospel and very evangelistic. Some of the greatest believers I have ever known are Romi. They are very zealous and make great sacrifices to spread the "good news to the poor." It is truly good news for them - and for all the world.

STREET KIDS: We are increasing our ministry (or rather the Lord's ministry) to the street kids. We have 50 kids signed up for our sports program. Of course, we give them a meal so the can enjoy the sports more and not have to worry about begging or stealing for something to eat. It is so wonderful to see their faces light up when something is done for them. They are very eager to hear about Jesus and His love for children. What a contrast this is to spoiled children who have more than they need. Their lives are so pitifully pathetic......some of their parents are on drugs, all are homeless living in parks, abandoned buildings, or filthy underground sewers.....

hungry, dirty, no possibility of going to school, neglected and abused.....but ALL eager to hear how much Jesus loves them.....even if no one else does. These poor little kids desperately need the Lord.

For those of you who have helped in so many ways, I cannot even begin to thank you enough - only our God can and will reward you justly. You have caused many prayers of praise and thanksgiving to go up to God by the poor for whom you have cared.

Regarding the girl's home in Bolintin and their housing, the only solution is to build a very large room for half of them to eliminate the problem of overcrowding. The government officials agreed to give us a license if we will do this. If not, according to their own words, they can go back to the streets. But God is faithful and loves these girls with a passion. This is the passion of Christ....that we love and care for these poor outcast girls and children as He does.

Matthew 6:19, 20, 21 "Lay not up for yourselves treasurers upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasurers in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Shalom from Romania............ron and sue

August 1, 2004

Greetings from Romania in the Lovely Name of Jesus,

If everyone could know and follow the most beautiful and only truly honest person that has ever graced our planet......we would have no child abuse, no wars, no starvation, no corruption of any form. He is our example and only He is LOVE PERSONIFIED.

How our planet got in this mess can only be blamed on mankind, not God. He generously gave (and keeps on giving) us everything we need for our wellbeing and happiness. But because of our greed and wickedness as humans - we try to make ourselves as gods, knowing right and wrong.....and what we are seeing today is the fruit of our so-called wisdom.

SUDAN: We had a young man named William work for us a few years back, helping us take soup to the street kids. He was from Sudan and no one in Romania wanted to hire a refugee. He fled because of persecution. His father was a medical doctor and stayed. William was fortunate enough to be allowed to study in England, so we haven't seen him for years and know nothing of the fate of his family. I remember the winter when two hundred froze to death on the streets in Bucharest. We couldn't even get our car out to go to the train station to feed the kids. William would tie a huge plastic container of hot soup on his back and walk to the subway that led to where the kids were. They loved him for making that sacrifice. He was a wonderful person. These thousands and maybe millions in Sudan are wonderful people, too.....many of whom are believers trying to escape the murderous Muslim government. They are NOT ignorant cannibals as some view those from Africa. They are just like all of us.......trying to survive in this upside down world that has forgotten its Creator. Pray for Sudan...that something can be done fast.

IRAQ: The Cradle of Civilization - where Abraham lived - is in total chaos. Pray that this war will end SOON and no more lives will be lost.

ROMANIA: The European Union demands that Romania clean up its corruption before they can enter the EU. How ironic. Belgium, Germany, Denmark, France, England......where many of the pedophiles come from....make their way to the streets of Romania to victimize kids who would do anything for money or for the chance to "go West" to have a better life. To enter the EU, Romania must agree to the pro-homosexual agenda. They protested at first, and said they couldn't see what being pro-gay had to do with entering the EU.....but they caved in to pressure. The Romanian people are against this, the Orthodox and Evangelical Churches, also, but the politicians rule Romania - not God.

REPUBLIC of MOLDOVA: Unbelievably, in the Transnista area of Moldova, where they are primarily Russian-speaking, and were at war for years with the Moldovans....5 schools and one orphanage were closed because they teach the kids Moldovian (Romanian) instead of Russian and write with Latin characters instead of Russian. Sixty children were put out on the streets because they didn't study in Russian, but in their own native Moldovian language. The kids (mostly teens) stormed the orphanage and went to the food pantries because they had nothing to eat. The police blocked the roads so no car with Moldovan tags could enter to help them. And Moldova wants to enter the EU? Impossible with such as this going on.

WESTERN COUNTRIES: Moldova isn't the only country that does idiotic, ungodly things to its' people......when we stopped prayers in the public schoos in America, our country has only gone downhill. Civilized, cultured Romanians (whether they be believers or not) are sick of the "River of Filth" that flows from the west with its stinking pornography, inane TV programs, promotion of every vice and perversion imaginable, violence, degradation of the family, mockery of God and Christian values...etc, etc, etc. And the EU says Romania has to clean up the corruption......that is like the pot calling the kettle black.

THE SOLUTION: The only answer to man's needs is for the King of the Universe to be honored and revered. People need the Lord.......desperately. God's Kingdom is an upside-down one.....the widows and orphans and outcasts should be taken care of and respected....instead of used and abused - as in Satan's kingdom.

We can't do everything, but we can do something. Pray for our girls, that their needs will be met - physically and spiritually. We still haven't completely solved to problem of the need for more housing, but can see God's hand at work for them. Pray for the mamas and babies - that they will learn to trust Him more and raise their children in a Christian manner. Satan hates the fact that we have rescued these from his clutches. He is trying desperately to get them back into His dark, wicked domain where children are despised. He wants them back into degrading prostitution (some of ours had been). He wants them back on the dangerous streets (where some were). he wants them to abort their children (some wanted to, but we talked them out of it and provided them a home). Pray for God's protection for us all. Pray for all that are helping "children at risk".

I heard that Oprah did a program on the street kids of Romania. These are the kind of kids we are helping and trying to rescue from the streets. I wish that I could be on her program....God does have a solution to this terrible situation....they have to bow their knee to God and trust Him to help them get off the streets and away from Satan's deadly influence. Sadly, most want to stay and have their so-called "freedom". True freedom comes only from a knowledge and relationship with the One who died for them.

God bless you all for lavishing love and concern on us all. They (and we) are MOST thankful.

Maranatha........from Sue and Ron and the young women and children in God's care.

Psalm 113:3,4 "From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. The Lord is high above all nations, and His glory above the heavens."

Ron & Sue Bates, C.P. 53--55, Bucharest 4, Romania

July 18, 2004

Before we came to Romania, right after the Revolution in 1989 that overthrew their Communist dictator, we asked the Lord to make the way smooth and straight so we would know it was His will to come here. He made the way so rough and hard.....rocky, dangerous, stormy, slippery, with robbers, evil men, devils and demons. But the rewards have been SO GREAT, we have never ever doubted His will in coming here. We prayed for ease and comfort, He gave us trials and tribulations and the resulting peace and abundant joy and harvest.....something infinitely greater than a selfish smooth path. He gave us what we needed, not what we thought we needed. He never left us, but was with us in every circumstance...showing His abundant love and power.

God has a special place in His heart for children and the vulnerable in society. Jesus showed us God's heart by the special love and attention He gave to them. The devil, who hates what God loves, has a special hatred for those especially dear to God's heart. Children, unashamedly and easily believe God and His Word and delight in talking about Him. They show the world the kind of love God has....unmerited, without prejudice, without guile. Satan hates this kind of witness.......he wants us to be doubters, skeptics, proud in our own wisdom....and to be like the wicked person he is - haters of what God loves.

Multitudes of beautiful children that should be loved and cherished are being used throughout the world for evil, selfish purposes. Prostitution, pedophilia, selling of their body parts, slavery....even small children are forced to satisfy the insatiable lusts of perverted and greedy humans. Satan's war against children is a fierce, ugly, and dirty one.

Thank God, we were able to save some of our girls, mothers and children from such debauchery. And believe me, they are very grateful to be in a safe place with plenty of clothing and food and whatever they need. They are receiving love and spiritual teaching from us and our workers. It is a hard task because they were robbed of so many things we take for granted. But God is on their side......and ours because we are defending the orphans.

This week we were privileged to have Maureen Williamson (missionary in France from the Malvern Bible Chapel in PA). She is single and very compassionate and understanding. She spent many hours with them talking about the concept of a "Second Chance" for virginity. The girls really appreciated her counsel.

Pray for our girls in Bolintin....we still haven't been able to solve the problem of the need for more housing. But we can see the hand of God working on their behalf. Pray for the two homes in Ciorogirla...for the mothers and their children. They have been rescued from the streets and don't want to go back into Satan's filthy domain.

For those of you who have helped these find a better life......we all give thanks.

Psalm 82:3,4 "Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked."

With love for the children of Romania.........ron and sue

June 13, 2004

GREETINGS TO OUR BELOVED BROTHERS AND SISTERS - FELLOW CO-WORKERS IN GOD'S GREAT END-TIME HARVEST,

CIROGIRLA HOME FOR MOTHERS AND CHILDREN......we now have two such homes. Thank God they aren't so crowded and we have room for a few more. These mothers and their children were homeless, beaten, or abandoned. Thank God, they now have two nice homes, plenty to eat, and Christian influence. Ron has Bible studies with them every week and we both have to spend a lot of time counselling them. We have a church for all of them every Sunday at the girls home in Bolintin. They are wonderful mothers and are thankful for your kindhearted help. Some of them would have had to have abandoned their babies in an orphanage or hospital if believers like you had not provided them a home. Due to the weakening economy, there are more and more families and small children on the streets. We would love to open a homeless shelter, but the government doesn't want to admit they have a problem.

PRAY FOR THE GIRLS IN BOLINTIN: We haven't yet resolved the problem with another place for them to live. They are too crowded (58 girls in one large house) and we must do something soon. Pray that these pitiful girls will grow in the grace and knowledge of God. I want to write a series of stories about their lives. Some of them came to visit me and gave their testimonies of how thankful they are for those of you that pray for them and help them stay off the streets by providing a home, food, clothing and nurturing for them. These girls were raised in the orphanages and then thrown out on the cruel streets when they turned 18. Is it any wonder that our girls are so disturbed. They have nightmares and some cannot talk about their life in the orphanage. They are the fruit of a lifetime of abuse and neglect. Babies have to be held or they will not grow up to be normal. Did you know that many of the serial killers were orphans? The only solution the government has for most of these girls is to put them into a mental hospital.....a fate worse than the streets. Some of our girls have brains that are smaller than normal.......a sign of neglect as a baby. God was right when he said, "It is not good for man to be alone." We need each other from the cradle to the grave.

I have included an article written by a woman from Ireland about the orphanages and mental hospitals. It is pretty gruesome, but this is the way she sees it. The government is trying to correct the situation, often called Ceausescu's Legacy. They must do so to enter the European Union. Pray for God to give them wisdom and a heart for these kids.

ORPHANAGE IN the REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA: Pray that we can open an orphanage in the city of Cahul. There is no Christian home for children there. So many Moldovans are leaving the country to work in the West and never come back for their children. Sometmes abject poverty provokes strange and desperate behavior.

SHIPPING INFORMATION: This week (I promise) I will send out information on how to help with the many problems here. We also need to print Bibles and Christian literature to give to the many that come to our door. What an opportunity to give them the gospel. There are so many open doors in Romania, we hardly know which one to walk throught next.

Proverbs 19:17 "He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will He pay him again."

Pray for peace and prosperity from the Lord..............sue and ron

Ron Bates, C.P. 53--55, Bucharest 4, Romania tel: 313-5465 inasmuch@fx.ro www.inasmuch.ro

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

By Brendan McDaid
newsdesk@belfasttelegraph..co.uk
19 May 2004

LOCAL artist Marie- Theresa O'Neill is a woman haunted by the "vision of
hell" she experienced inside some of Romania's asylums and orphanages.

After completing her one woman mission to introduce the idea of art as
therapy to the forgotten, Marie-Theresa, known as Mary-T, said she will
never be able to forget the human suffering she encountered.

"This is happening now and this is Europe," she stresses.

The 30-year-old Feeney woman, who now works locally with mental health
patients, spent two three month placements in the Transylvanian city of
Brasov.

"I was going out to work in the First Day Care Centre which was in
Brasov.

"When I got there I was on my own and networked with the psychiatric
hospitals which was quite simple to do as I was bringing the only
activity that existed in any of these hospitals.

"There was nothing in terms of therapeutic activity."

Mary-T divided her time between four mental health institutes and
children's homes.

"It was a rewarding experience but, and it is a big but, they are just
so poor their main aim in life is just survival.

"Art is something that is sheer luxury there, and these people really,
really needed food, not mental stimulation."

She said she was not prepared for what she encountered.

"Nobody could be. There were patients bullying patients, patients being
raped, there were children being tied up so severely their limbs grew in
that position."

Many of the stomach churning incidents she relates are too harrowing to
put in print.

Mary-T said that the abandonment of children was a common practice
throughout Romania.

These children are put in 0-3 Years institutes where the psychological
and physical condition of most deteriorates rapidly.

"For me, being a creative person, I know I would be one of the children
bouncing off the walls and pulling my own hair out.

"Children like that who cannot handle it get tied up. I saw one girl who
was 14-years-old and still tied.

"Her backside bones had become deformed and she could not stand up.
In another incident she was horrified to find a child had bitten the
head of a kitten without having any idea that what he had done was
wrong.

Mary-T said that while staff were often immediately accountable, there
was little point in apportioning blame.

"They are working for no money with children who have very special
needs. There are 30 children to one adult. When I was doing the
workshops I found it practically impossible with three or four of them."

Mary-T said that the image now emerging of a progressive, developing
Romania was a false one.

"You could be forgiven for thinking the situation is better than what it
was.

"I have seen when westerners arrive they put the kids in this special
room which has toys in it.

"The children don't know what to do with the toys.

"They still just rock back and forth. When the westerners go, so do the
toys."

She said that the contrast between the bleak existence of these people
and the beautifully ornate city centre with rich tourists in the ski
resorts nearby, brought home the full horror of what was taking place
just a few streets away in the children's homes.

The psychiatric hospital conditions she encountered were equally
harrowing.

"You could be there skiing and never know what is taking place a few
streets down from the city centre.

"Many of them are people waiting to die. They are malnourished, badly
abused. If children reach 30 it's a miracle.

"Some of the patients looked like those from the Michael Jackson video
'Thriller' coming towards you. They were deformed, beaten.

"When I went back last year as I approached the buildings the smell hit
me again. They all smelt the same, of human waste, urine, sweat, bad
food and industrial cleaning products. It took me a while to adjust
again."

To cope, Mary-T devised a strategy of putting the horrific events she
saw each day to the back of her mind and then dealing with her trauma
later.

"There was a lot of sobbing."

Now, surrounded by first rate facilities in local institutions, she
cannot help but draw comparisons.

"When I am sitting working with patients in Gransha or other areas I
sometimes think back to Brasov. I was working with 35 adults at a time
at least.

"I had no space, no nothing. Many of the patients were drawing for the
first time. With the children the first thing they did was eat the
paint."

Many of the paintings completed by Mary-T and the children were stolen
straight away.

"Anything you leave gets lifted and sold. Everybody is poor there."

She said children would regularly break into her bag and take food and
anything else they could find."

As a result before she left she got the children and patients involved
in building mosaics and big pictures which were then nailed to the walls
to give them a focus.

Some native Romanians, Mary-T said, would in other societies be awarded
sainthoods for the work they were doing to try to rebuild their country
and protect its parentless children.

More needs to be done however by the international community, Mary-T
said.

Leaving Romania behind was never going to be an easy decision, but for
Mary-T she knows it is only a temporary parting. "Every day I think
about giving up art and working there full time.

"It's different when you know these children as individuals.

"I still get phonecalls asking me to come back.

"I will definitely be back, and if not Romania, then I will definitely
do this type of work elsewhere, maybe India.

"If I could get money to do that through sponsorship then I would do
that."

Recently Mary-T recreated her experiences at an art exhibition at the
Context Gallery in Derry.

Entitled 'Romania, Ward 120 Bed 32: An Emotional Response', the
blacked-out room showed only the tortured and fractured outline of faces
distorted almost beyond recognition. In the centre is a hospital bed.

"Sometimes I would walk past that ward and there would be two people
strapped to it with leather straps lying in their own urine and faeces.

"The darkness is like the asylum. There is very little natural light in
these places."

Extract from Mary-T's diary of a typical morning during her time in
Romania

"AUGUST 17 - Reliable as ever, the smell ends my morning and brings me
back with a cold, harsh reality of what my day has in store for me.
Inside the hospital I can smell stale layers of skin from the inside of
my nose.

It's a sensation like a razor blade screaming through my nasal cavity.
It shocks me to take a large intake of breath.

The smell and taste travel to the pit of my stomach and I feel it
violently contract. Sadly it's become a morning ritual. I walk under the
glorious Romanian sunshine, through the cobbled streets of Brasov.

The sun dances and dazzles my eyes. It is a beautiful city, the 'gem of
Romania' the locals call it. It's very beautiful here.

Perhaps the juxtaposition between this devastating beauty and the brutal
assault on my every sense as I enter the hospital is what makes it a
continually brash and cruel surprise.

I've been here eight weeks and I still marvel at how these hospitals,
children's institutions galore all smell the same.

It includes whatever horrific cleaning product they use.

It competes commendably with the stench of sweat, urine and human waste.

It feels impossible to describe yet my body knows perfectly as I place
my hand on my stomach and will my breakfast to stay put?

Each morning I prepare myself and each morning it is still a rude
awakening."

C 2004 Independent News and Media

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northwest_weekly/story.jsp?story=522780

May 9, 2004

We have a serious problem that we would like you to pray about.

On this Mother's Day, I rejoice in the wonderful mother that God gave me. She was killed in a car accident in Ft. Worth, Texas 32 years ago and is now with Him and soon we will be reunited. As for all of us, everything we do and think is in a great part because of the influence of our parents. I am here in Romania helping these motherless orphan girls partly out of appreciation for my incredibly loving and giving mother. They have no such memories to cherish and make them feel safe and secure and loved.

I just cannot imagine how they feel today - when the world is honoring their mothers. They are either motherless, or had a mother that didn't want them and put them in an orphanage. This is worse than never having had a mother. They understand if their parents died - that is unavoidable, but there is no way to understand parents that didn't want them. Their emotional scars are deep and unhealed. The horror of being raised in a cold orphanage without human touch, love, and the basic necessities of life can never leave their thoughts. They had never heard how Jesus took the little children in His arms and blessed them. They rarely had the proper relationships.....even with their peers. They have been robbed of every basic human right.

Many times when we have visitors, they (if they don't stay long) are impressed by how nice the girls act and how beautifully they sing Christian songs. But little do they know of the severe behavioral problems each has. Not a one left the orphanage undamaged. They cannot deal with conflict except in a violent way (cursing, fighting, revenge, anger, self-mutilation, breaking windows, injuring animals) They have nightmares.....have trouble sleeping, some wet the bed, some want to roam the streets at night. These are girls who were raised in the orphanage system and then kicked out on the streets totally unprepared for life. They were rejected all their lives. They were all passed by when prospective parents came to their orphanage to choose a child to take home.

Romania has no program to help them prepare for life - they are just thrown on the streets at age 18 as bait for the vulture pimps and pedophiles. What future do these young men and women have that were raised in the hell-holes called orphanages.......but a life of poverty, prostitution, pimps, prison, pedophiles. Only if someone rescues them, as we have done for many, and introduces them to a new kind of life......a life grounded on the unconditional love of Christ, is there any hope for them. Satan wants them to stay on the streets for his wicked purposes. When one tries to help these outcasts, and show the world how much God loves them in spite of their handicaps and history, Satan tightens his ugly grip. This kind of beneficent work makes it easy to preach the gospel. It opens doors to people's hearts that the Devil thought were tightly sealed shut by His lies and deception.

Last month, a very ambitions young reporter from a large newspaper came to do an interview. I cooperated because I want the Romanian people to hear of the suffering of those raised in an orphanage and evoke their sypmpathy. Most don't know what happened in the orphanages because it was like prisons for children. She went to the girls home in Bolintin for about an hour and wrote a terribly insulting report. She singled out the severely mentally handicapped ones and took their pictures. They aren't as pretty as she is and are very damaged by institutionalization and birth defects. She ignorantly called them "crazy" and said they were driving the others crazy. These pitiful girls have birth defects (physical and mental) due to fetal alcohol syndrome, malnutrition, and other causes. They all have very high lead levels which cause brain damage. But crazy they are not. I told her all this, but she wasn't interested in anything but a sensational article......even at the expense of these poor girls. I told her if her eyes would have been washed with tears, perhaps she would have seen things differently. This article was an insult to orphans, mentally ill, the handicapped, and those who came to help them, I also reminded her that what she did against these girls, she did it against Jesus.

She lied to the girls, promising them money and hugging them. They were VERY hurt to read that she called them "crazy" and their home a "hell." They felt betrayed, again. We have always taught them to appreciate what God has given them, and to forgive their enemies, so perhaps they will. But, as usual, God always turns evil into good......especially for those who love Him.....AND THESE GIRLS LOVE HIM in their own limited way - which He fully understands. This reporter said we have too many girls there......and that is true. Her report brought people from the government, the local government, the Department of Sanitation, the Department of Child Protection, doctors, and a psychiatrist. Without exception, they praised what we are doing, saying it is WONDERFUL and unique.....BUT too many girls in one house. (58 at this time in a big 3 story house in Bolintin Deal) They offered us constructive criticism and suggestions, which we welcomed. But, they said the European Union wants Romania to get rid of the large orphanages and have smaller homes with 20 - 25 (at the most). So, they would not continue with our licenses until we build or buy another house. They have no way of taking care of these girls, so they want us to find a solution.

This is our dilemma. We must do something soon......or their only solution is for all but 20 - 25 to be put back on the streets or wherever they can find to go. How could we put them back on the streets from where we rescued them? Impossible. I would go to jail first. When you work with "children at risk" - you always take a risk because they are so vulnerable to falling into Satan's traps and Satan delights in revenge. And, one never knows what will happen in these former Communist countries. So, I've always had a little fear in the back of my mind about this. But when I thought of going to jail for these girls, the only thought that came to my mind was not fear but that I would be going to my "throne room". Isn't God good to put that comforting thought in my heart? It certainly didn't come from me. I thought about Jesus going to the cross and the joy that was set before Him. This is the kind of God we serve.....one that fills our hearts with peace in a time of trouble.

The girls are crying and very fearful that they will have to go back to the streets and underground canals......pray for God to bring peace to their hearts. And pray that God will send the necessary funds to solve this problem. We cannot rent because no one wants these girls. I know He cares more about them than we ever could.......so we are putting this problem in His hands. I know no place else to go but to God and His people.

We never ask for money, unless someone asks if we are in need. We don't know whether to do as George Mueller did......ask only God. Or as D.L. Moody and aggressively ask for funds for a good cause. Or as Paul and Jesus did - - not for themselves, but to implore the Saints to help the poor and needy. So, I cannot help but ask for these "least of these, my poor and needy outcast orphan girls".

For your wonderful friendship and fellowship in the gospel..........we give thanks.

Shalom and Grace.............sue and ron

April 11, 2004

Millions are celebrating Easter this Sunday in Eastern Europe and Russia. Despite
the increasing hardships, Jesus is remembered and exalted for His impeccable life,
merciless death, and glorious resurrection. What an incredible King we have that
would evoke the praises of His poverty-stricken, broken, imprisoned, persecuted, and
handicapped subjects. A mere human king would be cursed for allowing his people to
be stricken and apparently doing little or nothing to save them from their
suffering.

But we, subjects of His Upside Down Kingdom, are crushed like a rose.......giving
off a sweet perfume in praise of Him who doeth all things well. We have a hope deep
within out souls that encourages us to wait for the appearing of the Great God who
will some day bring justice to the earth and make all things right.

In the meantime, we are left here on earth to find Him in hidden ways......ways we
wouldn't have expected. In places that will surprise us on Judgment Day.......like
in the "least of these."

I have been sad because of being away from our children during these days of
celebration. But I know that we will be resurrected and spend eternity together.
They are all grown, but still, they are my children and no one can take their place.
Matthew 29:29 "And everyone that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or
father, or mother or wife, or children, or lands, for my names sake, shall receive a
hundred fold and shall inherit eternal life." God keeps his promises.

Today, God sent me an Easter blessing in the person of a homeless street kid.
Marian, commonly called "the Blonde" has been on the streets for years. We
first met him about 7 or 8 years ago when we took soup and bread to those on the
streets. He was hardened by street life which is a dog--eat-dog existence. He was
the "king of the canals" and into every kind of vice imaginable. He was sent to
prison three years for theft. He had a beautiful little boy and left him in our care
for awhile. After he got out, he came to us to try to con us into giving him money
He accused us of selling his child - even though he knew he was with the child's
mother. He tried to break us. He lied, stole, argued, and terrorized us We told
him he had to earn any money we gave him, so he started washing our cars and
cleaning the yard. He proved to be a very hard worker, so when we painted the
girl's home, we hired him and Mishi, another young man from the streets to help. If
anyone was not going to change, it would have been Blonde (in my opinion). But with
God......all things are possible.

He had never expressed any appreciation or emotion.....except for his child. He
apparently had no conscience and was living the totally selfish life. But
God........I love those two words. But God uses even the outcasts of society to
praise his name. Blonde started crying. I never knew he could cry. He said he
remembered when Ron and I went to the North Train Station for years and how much he
enjoyed our coming and how much he appreciated the food and clothing and medicine
and time spent with them. He said, "I am on your side, Sue, God help me to help
you. I never dreamed you would lose your leg and be in this wheelchair. The street
kids owe you so much. You are a mother to me.....God used you and Ron to help us.
I don't want to be a vagabond any longer. I want to be a good person and live for
Christ. He is risen!"

That same love that resurrected Christ from the dead is changing the life of this
young man - broken in heart, health and hope. The Blonde, together with us, awaits
the Great Day of our Resurrection.

I can never express the joy and happiness he brought me this Easter day. Could
Jesus have been crying for me through the Blonde? His changed life is proof that
God is alive.

It is a custom in Romania to greet everyone with the words, "Christ is risen." and
the response is, "Indeed, He is risen."

Can we all - all over the world - in unison today and every day proclaim that
INDEED, CHRST IS RISEN.

Blessings and peace and love from Ron and Sue Bates in Romania....serving God with
"the least of these."

March 7, 2004

PRAY FOR MICHAEL AND HIS MOTHER:

Mihai (Michael) and his mother, Helen came by to visit us Friday. I knew I had been needing a blessing and God always knows who to send. Michael goes to the Baptist Christian Academy and his mother is an accountant.....but they are homeless. They were cheated out of their apartment. This happens all too often in this country. Some say Romania is like the wild West....you do whatever you can get away with. This trauma caused his mother to lose her mind. She is unable to function well. Thankfully, someone gave a scholarship to Michael. I have never seen such devotion by a son for his mother. He asked us to help them with food until he graduates in May. Then, he thinks he will get a scholarship to the University. He wants to do this to help his mother. When they came in our office, I started coughing because of the smell. But it was not their fault......it was the awful odor of poverty.

Did you know that angels unaware sometimes smell bad? Did you know that Jesus may be disgiised in a person who is repugnant to you? Our God often comes to us with blessings and lessons in unsuspecting ways and persons. The most striking lessons come not from those with suits and ties and fancy dresses - conducting seminars on the Christian life....but from the "least of these". Our God surprises us, clothed in the most unusual fashion: arrayed in humility and poverty (like Michael and his mother.).

Pray for these two poor souls, that God will supply all their needs according to his riches in glory. I took them into our kitchen for a meal. While talking to them, Mihai reached over and held my hand and said so sweetly, "I am so glad you are kind." I would like to pass that message on to you....those that have helped us to stay here through your gifts of prayers, of material goods, of encouragement, of finances......to you, Michael says, "I am so glad you are kind!"

PRAY FOR TEOFIL: .In our last letter, I mentioned that Bro. Teofil, who is with the Gideons, is suffering with cancer of the neck and spine. I talked to him today and his voice was very coarse. On March 15, he will have to have his thyroid removed. He is only 47 years old. Pray for him, his wife, and two grown children. He was worried about having the surgery and requests your prayers. He said he was just waiting to go home. Isn't that what we are all doing - just waiting to go home!

BABY SMILES PROJECT - GREAT NEWS: We finally received the unrestricted license to receive goods and containers. If you would like to send something to help the suffering in Romania and Moldova......please go to our website for more information. Our purpose in doing this is to pave the way for the preaching of the gospel of our compassionate Christ. If the lost world doesn't see us as compassionate and caring (not just in word, but in deed) we make it difficult for them to want to believe in our God.

http://www.inasmuch.ro/_private/baby%20smiles/x%20shipping%20information.htm

PRAY FOR THE FOLLOWING:

Bolintin Deal Home for Girls: 58 girls who were raised in the orphanage and then "graduated" to the streets. Some are physically handicapped, some have epilepsy and mental illness, some have been raped, some were prostitutes, and all are socially handicapped because of their lack of nururing. Only Jesus and caring people can help them overcome this terrible tragedy.

Garden House - Home for Mothers and their children in Ciorogirla: 48 mamas and small children live together. Some have been abused and battered, some wanted to abort their babies but came here instead to raise them, some were on the streets, some of the small children's parents are street kids, and all were poverty-stricken and in need of the Savior's tender touch.

Soon to open (Lord willing): Because the Garden House is so crowded, we must open another home for them and others in the same situation. Pray that God will provide the necessary means to complete this very needy children's home.

Braille Printing House: In Ciorogirla. We print Bibles, Christian literature, school textbooks in Romanian Braille. Communism tried to destroy every Braille Bible after WW2...so for years, the Blind were deprived of the Bible in their own language. Now, through the generosity of believers, they receive it free of charge. We also print portions of the Bible in Russian Braille for the Republic of Moldova. Pray for this very needy work to expand and reach a much neglected people.

Manna from Heaven: Our monthly prayer and praise letter that reaches thousands of handicapped persons across Romania and Moldova. People who thought they were unwanted are now receiving the message that God hasn't forgotten them and truly cares. Pray that it will go into many hands and hearts.

Ministry to the Romi (gypsies): If ever there were open doors in Eastern Europe, it is among the gypsy population. The meetings are always well-attended and the welcome into their homes and lives are warm. They may be outcasts in society, but God welcomes them into his fold. Pray that we can find a meeting place for a church in Durvali. God has given us another open door into the gypsy school there. They have 225 students who are in dire need of school supplies, clothing, shoes, and other things necessary to attend school. They welcome Christian literature for these children. Pray that we can get permission to show Christian videos to the students.

Ministry to the Street Kids: Pray that the care shown them will influence them to leave their damnable lifestyles and turn to a life pleasing to God.

May God help us all to live lives that will make it easier for others to see and reflect the kind, compassionate Christ we want the world to know.

With much Love and appreciation from Ron and Sue.......

Ron and Sue Bates, C.P. 53--55, Bucharest 4, Romania inasmuch@fx.ro www.inasmuch.ro

Early Christian Advice
The Didache (The Teaching)

My child, flee from all evil and from everything resembling it. Do not get angry, for anger leads to murder. My child, do not grumble, for this leads to blasphemy; be gentle-minded, for those of a gentle mind shall possess the earth. Be patient and have a loving heart. Do not be one who stretches out his hands to receive but closes them when it comes to giving. If you have earned something by the work of your hands, pass it on. Do not turn away from those who are in need, but share all things in common with your brother. Your heart shall not cling to the high and mighty, but turn to the good and humble folk. Accept as good whatever happens to you or affects you, knowing that nothing happens without God.

February 21, 2004

We would like to urge you to watch a program on CNN tonight about child trafficking in Romania. In some places it was shown last week. I hope you don't miss it.

They go to the streets in Bucharest - a world of perverseness and poverty and made this film.. These are some of the street kids we have been ministering to for several years. Many of the girls we have in our homes were on the streets and exposed to this kind of hellish life.

They have suffered the horror of being raised in an orphanage and then were kicked out on the streets - totally unprepared for life - to become the victims of Satan's wicked servants.

If you are able to see this....you will be more able to see the challenges and dangers we face

They also go to Milan, Italy, where many of the Romanian kids have been taken either by force or willingly to make money.

We know most of the kids in this film and know about their lifestyle - it left me saddened and depressed

This reporter followed and filmed a pedophile that led to his eviction from Romania. He had put the street kid's pictures on his website to lure other perverts to Romania.

Pray for our work with these kids. It is unbelievably difficult. Once they get caught up in this kind of lifestyle, it is hard to escape.

2 Timothy 3:1 "This know also, that in the last days, perilous times shall come..........." We truly are living in perilous times. God help us all.

Shalom from Romania......sue and ron

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fundatia Inasmuch, Sue and Ron Bates, C.P. 53--55, Bucharest 4, Romania