What a Difference a Month Makes!

Within just the past week, the world in which we live has changed. The Coronavirus became a real concern in both Romania and the U.S. at about the same time. That's when reality set in (at least for me!) that this virus and the measures being taken to stop its spread aren't just affecting people far away, but have the potential to greatly affect both of my "homes." 

Playing the game "Pandemic" with friends in February.
Now, due to a real pandemic, we're practicing social
distancing and avoiding social gatherings.

Here in Romania, the president has declared a state of emergency. Schools are closed. Public gatherings of more than 50 people have been restricted. People entering the country from infected areas must self-isolate at home for 14 days. Everyone is encouraged to stay at home and avoid social gatherings. 

I was going to post the following update last week, an update about activities here during the month of February. In a way, I wish I had been able to post it closer to the time of the events mentioned. But by posting it now, I am much more aware of how much has changed in such a short period of time. What a difference a month makes! Whereas a month ago, days were full of travel and activities, none of that would be possible now.

The month of February was full of activities relating to European Nazarene College.

Group photo at the 2020 EuNC Faculty Assembly/
Board of Trustees Meeting

Faculty Assembly: I spent the first week of the month at the annual EuNC faculty assembly, held this year in Pristina, Kosovo. I always enjoy hearing first-hand accounts of what is happening in EuNC's 17 learning centers spread throughout Europe and central Asia, and this year was no different. I came away from the assembly reminded that what we do in Romania is part of something larger.  

In addition to the official business, the faculty assembly provided the opportunity to say good-bye to Klaus and Martina Arnold at a special farewell celebration. The Arnolds have served EuNC for 27 years, the last 15 of which Klaus has served as Rector. The Arnolds are moving to the U.S. where Klaus will begin his responsibilities as the denomination's newly-elected director for Global Education and Clergy Development.  

Participants in the Introduction to the New Testament course,
February 2020

"Introduction to the New Testament" class sessions: The week following the faculty assembly, the class sessions for "Introduction to the New Testament" began. Dr. Dorothy Jean Weaver, Professor Emerita from Eastern Mennonite Seminary, spent 3 weeks in Sighisoara. During each of those 3 weeks, we spent 3 mornings together in class – a “lighter” approach than squeezing all of the intensive class sessions into a single week with daily all-day meetings. The students enjoyed the new schedule and gained a better understanding of the content and context of the New Testament.

The newly-renovated classroom in Sighisoara

Classroom renovations: Just prior to the start of the intensive class sessions, renovations were completed in a room at the Sighisoara church, giving us a new dedicated classroom, complete with a new whiteboard and mounted television.

What's Next?
Our next course, "Evangelism and the Church," is scheduled to start next week. At this time, I can't say for certain if we will be able to have classroom sessions as planned, or if we will be forced to move to live video-conferencing sessions. Thankfully, our students are used to video-conferencing technology, so it will not be an obstacle to have class this way.

I often conclude an update by mentioning prayer requests. But this time, as I finish writing this newsletter, I am pausing to pray for each person who reads this. I pray for your health and safety. I pray for you as you face uncertainties in the days and weeks ahead, that your needs and the needs of those around you will all be met. Finally, I pray that you do not give into fear, but embrace our Savior's repeated invitation to "Fear Not."

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." (2 Thess. 3:16)