Albania Still Struggling from Disaster
On March 16, an Albanian army factory that had been storing various obsolete munitions for destruction caught fire and set off hours of severe explosions in the city of Gerdec. The city the factory was in was completely destroyed, and homes for miles were damaged, including our churches.
We had a new church planted in Gerdec that was completely destroyed, as well as our church in Vora. Churches in Lushjne and Marikaj were damaged. The death toll is still not certain, but at least 8 people were killed and 300 injured. One of our longest Albanian church members was among those killed.
Rebuilding the Community
Church of God World Missions immediately released $5,000 from the Christ Birthday Offering fund to help in any way possible. Albanian churches took up offerings that totaled an additional $3,000. Most of this went to the Church of God in Albania, because we were the primary ones affected. Funds are still needed to rebuild and repair. The Church of God in Albania wants to start buying property and building churches in the area as a symbol of their willingness to rebuild the community.
Although much was lost in the tragedy, it could have been much worse. One of our pastors had planned a children’s meeting very close to the factory. At the last moment, his wife and he felt they should take the children on a picnic instead. If they had been in the area, all 25 children and they themselves would have almost certainly been killed. We rejoice in God’s intervention and leading them to a safer area. Although their home was badly damaged, they were unharmed.
In Life and Death
The Church of God in Albania and the Body of Christ worldwide lost a precious member of the family on that terrible day. One of our members was working in the factory when it exploded. She was 19 years old. She became one of the first Albanian Church of God members at the age of seven. Despite her family being Muslim, she was a devoted believer and faithful church member. She had just recently been married.
She initially survived the explosion, but was in a coma. She was sent to Italy for medical treatment. While in the hospital she was surrounded by most of her family, who are Muslim. She suddenly woke up from her coma, shared Christ with her family, and then died.
Even in her last moments, her desire was to share the Savior who had changed her life. Although her family members are devoted Muslims, they permitted her to have a Christian funeral. For 12 years, this young girl lived for Christ…and even in her death she desired for others to do the same!
—————————————
Vance and Kari Massengill, Education Coordinator
Mediterranean/Middle East
(Source: Church of God World Missions)
