This post has been updated with a picture of Mircea here.
NOTE: Lou Wildman received the following in an email from Alin Apostol. Mircea is the youngest singer and is a member of the Orthodox church, as is his family. He is a fine young man and this will be interesting to the guys.
Alin wrote:
Lots of stories are unfolding as we move on. I will take time to share them with you so your men and their families and the whole OAMC family will glorify God, for He deserves it greatly.
I was talking to Mircea and his mom the other day. He said the whole tour was awesome! He is speechless. He was very much moved by the fact that you guys acted like we were one big family. He wishes it was not over. During the whole tour he felt like he was part of the family. He did not want to feel like he was from a different church, but that he belongs here.
He shared with his teachers where he had been and what he did – because he had to miss school for an entire week. His French teacher asked for a CD. I gave Mircea two, one for his mom and one for his French professor. I am curious to see what her reactions are.
Mircea is a great kid. He told me whenever we have a rehearsal or something like that, I know what to do: “Just call me and I will show up.”
God is good; He answers prayers! For years Mircea’s grandmother prayed that her grandchildren and her daughter would come to church. She had the high privilege to see Mircea’s brother and girlfriend for the first time attending a program of the SDA church at our concert in Botosani. She had the great honor to see Mircea sing in the big choir, right on the front row. Cristina, Mircea’s mom, also came; and not only that, she followed us on the Internet on our whole tour.
You probably know that Mircea’s father died five years ago of a sudden death. Nobody knew he was sick. It was at his father’s funerals that I first met Mircea and the whole family. Ever since we are close friends.
God works in ways we cannot imagine. It was approximately four weeks before the beginning of our tour that I asked Mircea to join us, and he did not refuse. From then on, he is part of the large OAMC family. Prayers are being answered in unknown ways!! God is good!!
More stories are unfolding...
Thank you for everything!!
Alin and the Romanian family of OAMC
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Security check at Parliament building
By Rick Pummel
Just a little thing that happened to me on the last Friday (April 25) of the trip . . .
We got to visit the Romanian Parliament building Friday morning. Of course, first we all had to go through security, just like at the airport. I was one of the last to go through.
After my small camera bag passed through the x-ray machine, the officer got a serious look on her face and asked me to open my camera bag. She then pointed to something on her monitor and asked me what it was. I couldn't see it, so I shrugged and said I didn't know. She then came over and very seriously watched as I opened the bag. She pointed to an outer pocket. I unzipped it and carefully removed my pitch pipe. She eyed it suspiciously, so I blew a couple notes. She took a closer look . . . and then let me pass.
I'll never use my pitch pipe again without having a little chuckle!
Just a little thing that happened to me on the last Friday (April 25) of the trip . . .
We got to visit the Romanian Parliament building Friday morning. Of course, first we all had to go through security, just like at the airport. I was one of the last to go through.
After my small camera bag passed through the x-ray machine, the officer got a serious look on her face and asked me to open my camera bag. She then pointed to something on her monitor and asked me what it was. I couldn't see it, so I shrugged and said I didn't know. She then came over and very seriously watched as I opened the bag. She pointed to an outer pocket. I unzipped it and carefully removed my pitch pipe. She eyed it suspiciously, so I blew a couple notes. She took a closer look . . . and then let me pass.
I'll never use my pitch pipe again without having a little chuckle!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Young singer ponders significance of Romania Mission
By Zach Parks, 16-year-old singer
April 26, 2009
I am sitting on the bus at 3:10 in the morning. Something is terribly wrong with this picture. I contemplate the trip. What have I accomplished while I have been here? What have we done as a chorus? Was this worth it?
My mind goes over our travel through the wonderfully windy roads of Romania as we stop at first one and then another little church or place to sing. In one of the churches the husband of one of the cooks had just died and she was in tears as we sang for them. We then took up an offering for their little church and raised a fair amount of money for them.
As we traveled from concert to concert, what did we accomplish? What did we do? Was what we did worth it? We have sung with some of the best brass and orchestras, and in some of the best halls of Romania, but what did we accomplish?
Well, for one thing, it has helped to unify the Romanian men’s chorus. For another, I think that it brought some of us closer together. Some of us were able to have conversations that were of huge benefit to ourselves and the people with which we were talking. But aside from that do we have any clue as to what we have done here in Romania?
In Hebrews 11, when talking about all the people of faith, it says that all these died not having received the reward promised because God had something better in mind; that only together with us would they be made perfect and understand what they had done in full.
So perhaps we touched somebody. Perhaps it was just being positive when many of the members were being negative. Maybe it was the singing, or the talking, or just the way we were walking. We could guess all day, but in heaven, we will then know what God did with what we threw at Him. Maybe we weren’t the “grand finale” or the end of this journey, but just another piece. Because you know, we weren’t here for the glory, so if we didn’t do the biggest or the best work, then so be it. God knows what we gave, and he is in control, and you know what? I think I will trust Him with the results, because…. He is God.
And to cap it all off? I would say we had fun, and sang our voices out. The devil was desperately trying to destroy our last concert by sickness, tired voices, tired people, and any other method he could come up with. Despite all of that, in my opinion, our last two concerts were two of the best. Praise God for his intervention and what He is going to do with what we gave.
April 26, 2009
I am sitting on the bus at 3:10 in the morning. Something is terribly wrong with this picture. I contemplate the trip. What have I accomplished while I have been here? What have we done as a chorus? Was this worth it?
My mind goes over our travel through the wonderfully windy roads of Romania as we stop at first one and then another little church or place to sing. In one of the churches the husband of one of the cooks had just died and she was in tears as we sang for them. We then took up an offering for their little church and raised a fair amount of money for them.
As we traveled from concert to concert, what did we accomplish? What did we do? Was what we did worth it? We have sung with some of the best brass and orchestras, and in some of the best halls of Romania, but what did we accomplish?
Well, for one thing, it has helped to unify the Romanian men’s chorus. For another, I think that it brought some of us closer together. Some of us were able to have conversations that were of huge benefit to ourselves and the people with which we were talking. But aside from that do we have any clue as to what we have done here in Romania?
In Hebrews 11, when talking about all the people of faith, it says that all these died not having received the reward promised because God had something better in mind; that only together with us would they be made perfect and understand what they had done in full.
So perhaps we touched somebody. Perhaps it was just being positive when many of the members were being negative. Maybe it was the singing, or the talking, or just the way we were walking. We could guess all day, but in heaven, we will then know what God did with what we threw at Him. Maybe we weren’t the “grand finale” or the end of this journey, but just another piece. Because you know, we weren’t here for the glory, so if we didn’t do the biggest or the best work, then so be it. God knows what we gave, and he is in control, and you know what? I think I will trust Him with the results, because…. He is God.
And to cap it all off? I would say we had fun, and sang our voices out. The devil was desperately trying to destroy our last concert by sickness, tired voices, tired people, and any other method he could come up with. Despite all of that, in my opinion, our last two concerts were two of the best. Praise God for his intervention and what He is going to do with what we gave.
Romanian Majesty TV lauds Bucharest concert
From Edi Ciobanu, a Romanian, a pastor in Oregon, and OAMC singer
Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 3:55 p.m. Pacific
Under the heading "OAMC - A dream come true for Romania," Majesty.tv ran a very nice story in Romanian about our tour and concert in Bucharest.
It emphasizes and praises the highlights of the concert; the sing around; it tells how the earthquake went unnoticed as we sang “Nearer, Still Nearer” and “Holy, Holy, Holy”; it cites Alin's comment that we serve a God of the impossible; it says that it was a cross-cultural faith reaffirming experience for the participants and that it ends with "Saturday night they sang about hope, about an all powerful God, full of love, who promised He'll come back again and who will keep His promise. Who could ask for more?"
The entire article can be found here.
The translated text of the article follows:
OAMC - A Dream Come True for Romania
By Alexa Plescan, Majesty - concert review
Translation by Eddie Ciobanu
Source: majesty.tv
A packed concert hall and a packed stage with over 200 men in black suits; this is what Sala Radio looked liked Saturday, April 25. No, this was not some mystical meeting; it was the concert of the Oregon Adventist Men’s Chorus (OAMC) with Maestro Lou Wildman conducting.
And because when you bring praises to the Creator there are no limits when it comes to nationality, Romania Adventist Men’s Chorus (RAMC) with Alin Apostol conducting united in one voice with those from across the Ocean to create an atmosphere that made people present forget for approximately two hours about earthly things.
In a sober note, the concert started with Schubert's "Sanctus," deep, impacting men's voices, to reach the apex than with "Psalm 150" – "Praise ye the Lord with the sound of the trumpet, praise ye Him with the timbrel, the loud cymbals and the stringed instruments!" One of the most impressing moments was the hymn sing around when the members of the immense chorus mingled with the people in the audience, us, the listeners and invited us to sing with them. We felt God to be "Nearer, Still Nearer" and the earthquake passed unnoticed as we sang with all the power of the ephemeral being "Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty."
For two weeks the united men's chorus had concerts in various places throughout the country, offering an experience that will not easily be forgotten. This dream came true because of the enthusiasm of a dedicated young man, who loves music and loves God, who wanted OAMC to come to Romania.
This is how Maestro Lou Wildman described Alin Apostol, who for five years had sung with OAMC while studying in the U.S., to only disappear all of a sudden afterwards. For a long time this wish ate at him, Alin says, having such a chorus in his native country. "Our God is a God of the impossible," he adds. Why "of the impossible?" Because that wish became reality in a way that surpasses any expectation. The Romanian Adventist Men's Chorus is not a dream anymore.
I talked to some of the members of the RAMC. Beyond the musical experience they had offered to the thousands of listeners that enjoyed a sacred, unaltered music, they had lived something unique. They had reaffirmed their faith through singing together with other people, from a different culture, speaking a different language, but worshipping the same God.
The ending was climactic. The entire audience together with the beautiful chorus and the orchestra sang "We Have This Hope." The hope of all? Jesus is coming soon!
They sang about hope Saturday night, about an Almighty God full of love, a God who promised that He'll come back and a God who will keep His promise. Who could ask for more?
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Friendly faces welcome OAMC home
A few pictures are posted of the early-morning departure and "welcome home" of familiar faces at PDX.
Lorie Ramey and Eward Brown hoist the "Welcome Home OAMC" banner in PDX.
Click the photo to see more pictures.
God’s Challenge to Me
By John Korb
Vancouver, WA
April 28, 2009
I’m home now; it has been quite the experience. I’m not thinking only of the Romania Mission, but of how God has led me to this place, Romania.
About four years ago I was invited by Mick Turner to attend a concert of the His Praise Men’s Chorus at Sunnyside SDA Church. My wife Shari and I attended, mainly because we wanted to support Mick. He was the only one we knew in the chorus. We enjoyed the music, both the performance and messages. During one of the songs that I particularly enjoyed I thought, “Boy that sure looks like fun. I wish I could sing like that.” Later, as I was further moved by the music, I breathed a silent prayer that said, “Lord, I would be willing to sing in a group like that, but I would need to be invited.”
Following the concert we visited with a number of friends and expressed our appreciation to the singers for their wonderful music. We headed for the door and congratulated Charlie Drury and Rick Martin, chorus members who were standing at the door to the parking lot. We shared with them our appreciation for their music and they responded by saying, “Are you going to come sing with us?” I was immediately struck with the impression that this was an answer to my prayer. There could be no denying it.
But deny it I did. I made some miserable excuse that I didn’t know how to sing and I had never sung in a chorus. As we walked toward the car into the cool night air, I was sweating. I knew that God had challenged me to follow through with my commitment to sing if I was invited.
Once we arrived home, Shari and I were sitting in our family room and I told her, “I’ve got to tell you a story.” I shared with her my prayer and how God had created a situation for the invitation and yet I had not responded in a positive way.
Shari’s response was, “You have to do it!”
The following week I met with Mick to share my story. Much to my surprise he said we are having practice Monday and I should come. He said, “We are a ministry, not just a music group.”
It was Mick who also encouraged me to join OAMC. I agreed to try, knowing that I was not prepared, really didn’t know how to sing and scared to death of my own voice. At OAMC I also found that “It really was not about the music,” but fellowship and growing in our spiritual journey.
Fast forward four years. The amazing part of this experience is that by accepting God’s challenge, I have had the opportunity to sing in His Praise, sing with OAMC and to participate in this wonderful Romania mission.
Recently I read a quote that said something like, “God does not place a desire in your heart to do that which you have no ability to do.” I thank God for making the Romania Mission possible. I thank all those who answered the call and gave their time and made gifts to help fund the mission. Ask any of the OAMC members and they will tell you the investments made will have eternal results.
May God be blessed.
Vancouver, WA
April 28, 2009
I’m home now; it has been quite the experience. I’m not thinking only of the Romania Mission, but of how God has led me to this place, Romania.
About four years ago I was invited by Mick Turner to attend a concert of the His Praise Men’s Chorus at Sunnyside SDA Church. My wife Shari and I attended, mainly because we wanted to support Mick. He was the only one we knew in the chorus. We enjoyed the music, both the performance and messages. During one of the songs that I particularly enjoyed I thought, “Boy that sure looks like fun. I wish I could sing like that.” Later, as I was further moved by the music, I breathed a silent prayer that said, “Lord, I would be willing to sing in a group like that, but I would need to be invited.”
Following the concert we visited with a number of friends and expressed our appreciation to the singers for their wonderful music. We headed for the door and congratulated Charlie Drury and Rick Martin, chorus members who were standing at the door to the parking lot. We shared with them our appreciation for their music and they responded by saying, “Are you going to come sing with us?” I was immediately struck with the impression that this was an answer to my prayer. There could be no denying it.
But deny it I did. I made some miserable excuse that I didn’t know how to sing and I had never sung in a chorus. As we walked toward the car into the cool night air, I was sweating. I knew that God had challenged me to follow through with my commitment to sing if I was invited.
Once we arrived home, Shari and I were sitting in our family room and I told her, “I’ve got to tell you a story.” I shared with her my prayer and how God had created a situation for the invitation and yet I had not responded in a positive way.
Shari’s response was, “You have to do it!”
The following week I met with Mick to share my story. Much to my surprise he said we are having practice Monday and I should come. He said, “We are a ministry, not just a music group.”
It was Mick who also encouraged me to join OAMC. I agreed to try, knowing that I was not prepared, really didn’t know how to sing and scared to death of my own voice. At OAMC I also found that “It really was not about the music,” but fellowship and growing in our spiritual journey.
Fast forward four years. The amazing part of this experience is that by accepting God’s challenge, I have had the opportunity to sing in His Praise, sing with OAMC and to participate in this wonderful Romania mission.
Recently I read a quote that said something like, “God does not place a desire in your heart to do that which you have no ability to do.” I thank God for making the Romania Mission possible. I thank all those who answered the call and gave their time and made gifts to help fund the mission. Ask any of the OAMC members and they will tell you the investments made will have eternal results.
May God be blessed.
Final concert photos from Bucharest posted
A few photographs from the final concerts in Bucharest at the Radio Hall on Sabbath, April 25, have been posted.
Click the photo to see more pictures.
OAMC-RAMC share communion service
As the final weekend of the Mission to Romania commenced, members of the Oregon and Romania men's chorus groups shared a communion service on the evening of Friday, April 24.
Click to photo to see more pictures.
Romania experience strengthens bonds
By Daniel Knapp
Received Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 8:26 a.m. Pacific
This mission has afforded us the time and opportunity to not only become acquainted with several Romania chorus members and hear about their customs, needs and hopes, but we also have traveled two weeks together as a group and had time to interact among ourselves – to become more intimately acquainted and discover common ground.
That will certainly enhance our cohesive interactions in the future. We are now aware, first hand, of the many real needs here (in Romania), and this mission may last much longer than we originally realized. Certainly, an ongoing need for specific items of prayer, as well as possible material assistance is undoubtedly in order.
The Romanian churches here are much more on "the same page" with us and our faith than we originally may have imagined. In some respects, even more informed than us. The cultural differences are minor. We will definitely come away from this mission changed forever – positively!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Young singer celebrates 15th birthday in Romania
Pictured above: Elisha Bailey displays the 1 and 5 candles from his birthday cake.
One of OAMC's youthful singers, Elisha Bailey, turned 15 on Friday, April 24, on his first trip of this kind a long way from home. He celebrated with some 200 of his newest, closest friends friends in Romania at the Adventist seminary in Cernica.
Singer/blogger Denny Nutter sent this note:
"We sang Happy Birthday to him and the cafeteria staff provided one of the most delicious birthday cakes I've ever tasted. I'm glad he shared!"
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Track OAMC returning flights
Want to find out when your OAMC singer, musician, family member, friend will arrive in Portland?
Here's the Sunday itinerary. The check further down for instructions for using FlightAware.com to track domestic flights.
Check the itinerary here.
Sunday, April 26 – Portland
3 a.m. – Bus departs for Otopeni International Airport, Bucharest.
6:05 a.m. – Flight NW 8358 (KLM 1358) departs for Amsterdam. Breakfast served en route. Arrive Amsterdam 7:50 a.m.
9:15 a.m. – Assemble at Northwest Airlines flight 91 departure gate for security screening and passport check.
9:30 a.m. – Commence boarding.
10:30 a.m. – NW Airline flight 91 departs Amsterdam for Portland
11:50 a.m. Pacific – Arrive in Portland. You will complete Immigration, Agriculture, and Customs inspections on arrival. You and your luggage will then board the International Arrivals bus to the main terminal. You will be exiting into the terminal next to baggage claim 10.
A ride will be provided for those that parked their cars at Sunnyside SDA Church.
Family at home can monitor the progress of domestic flights at www.FlightAware.com. In the box in the left-hand column that says “Track Commercial Flight,” enter the airline and flight number.
Here's the Sunday itinerary. The check further down for instructions for using FlightAware.com to track domestic flights.
Check the itinerary here.
Sunday, April 26 – Portland
3 a.m. – Bus departs for Otopeni International Airport, Bucharest.
6:05 a.m. – Flight NW 8358 (KLM 1358) departs for Amsterdam. Breakfast served en route. Arrive Amsterdam 7:50 a.m.
9:15 a.m. – Assemble at Northwest Airlines flight 91 departure gate for security screening and passport check.
9:30 a.m. – Commence boarding.
10:30 a.m. – NW Airline flight 91 departs Amsterdam for Portland
11:50 a.m. Pacific – Arrive in Portland. You will complete Immigration, Agriculture, and Customs inspections on arrival. You and your luggage will then board the International Arrivals bus to the main terminal. You will be exiting into the terminal next to baggage claim 10.
A ride will be provided for those that parked their cars at Sunnyside SDA Church.
Family at home can monitor the progress of domestic flights at www.FlightAware.com. In the box in the left-hand column that says “Track Commercial Flight,” enter the airline and flight number.
Sabbath finale concerts streamed live on the web
The OAMC/RAMC final two concerts in Bucharest will be shown live via streaming video on the world wide web on Sabbath, April 25, at 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Pacific time.
5 p.m. (7 a.m. Pacific) – First concert at Radio Hall with TV taping for Romanian Adventist Media. This concert was added because the 8 p.m. concert – seating 900 – sold out.
8 p.m. (10 a.m. Pacific) – Final concert at Radio Hall with TV taping again.
- Go directly to the video streaming page at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php. Or link from the OAMC home page at www.oamc.org.
5 p.m. (7 a.m. Pacific) – First concert at Radio Hall with TV taping for Romanian Adventist Media. This concert was added because the 8 p.m. concert – seating 900 – sold out.
8 p.m. (10 a.m. Pacific) – Final concert at Radio Hall with TV taping again.
A singer shares experiences
Pictured above: Dave Schmidt, right, with Alin Apostol
By David Schmidt., 2nd tenor, OAMC president
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
The past several days have been extreme highlights for me. Musically, program in Targu-Mures in the small concert hall with the three balconies was a tremendous experience! It was a beautiful, intimate setting, with every seat filled. Musically it was as close to "perfect" as we can do. The 43-piece orchestra was the best OAMC has ever had, the organ was tremendous.
Then the next night in Brasov at the Black Church (i.e., cathedral) was an incredible experience with the long reverb time, the setting so beautiful. I hope you were able to hear it streamed online and experience it with us. For me it was probably the musical highlight of my life, and a great spiritual time as well. I'll never forget it.
To be able to experience all of this with our new Romanian friends has made it an even richer time. From my standpoint, every hope I've had for this Mission has been met, plus more. There are some fine musicians among the Romanians, plus wonderful Christian men. It has been a rich blessing to be part of this along with them.
I'm glad our time here will end not with a visit to a castle or museum, but with a musical "high," two programs this coming Sabbath. I'm looking forward to it with mixed emotions: the music will be thrilling, but I'm not anxious to see the time here come to an end.
As I've reflected on the music of the combined choruses, it reminds me of Ingathering from years back. I honestly believe the angels have been singing with us because I think the music has been much better than we could expect to produce by ourselves. We've been praying earnestly for the Lord's blessing on this time and I'm certain He has been with us.
Romanian pastor’s perspective
By Bogdan Platon, pastor in Darabani, Romania, 29 years
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
I was a little piece of this puzzle that tried to present the image of Christ through the big gift of music, the emotion transmitted from heart to heart. It was an excellent time in which we shared kindness, friendship and experience of life.
Of course, this time will be unforgettable because it has become a part of eternal Plan of Salvation. We discovered the way from foreign brothers to close friends.
Everybody is having a beautiful history in his life, instead of our human problems, because Christ can make flowers from ice for our sake. I'm waiting for the moment we will see our Great Master that has revealed to us in these days through worship, discussions, visits and talking.
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
I was a little piece of this puzzle that tried to present the image of Christ through the big gift of music, the emotion transmitted from heart to heart. It was an excellent time in which we shared kindness, friendship and experience of life.
Of course, this time will be unforgettable because it has become a part of eternal Plan of Salvation. We discovered the way from foreign brothers to close friends.
Everybody is having a beautiful history in his life, instead of our human problems, because Christ can make flowers from ice for our sake. I'm waiting for the moment we will see our Great Master that has revealed to us in these days through worship, discussions, visits and talking.
Musician’s experience at The Black Church
By Levis Dragulin, musician, trumpet
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
A musician always looks for the perfect place for sound production. The Black Church at Brasov is such a location.
It was a real honor and privilege to glorify God and help strengthen people's faith in this church. Acoustically, there was about three seconds of reverberation. The sound seemed to continue on forever after the ending notes. Although there was no applause allowed (however, one person did applaud after a song and was quickly hushed by those around him), there seemed to be a complete feeling of reverence toward the music and the experience.
Personally, there were times at which I got goose bumps, especially after the ends of songs when the reverb took over. Lou did a fantastic job of directing the chorus, and they in turn did wonderful work, being well in tune and professional in appearance. God must have been smiling down upon us as we performed.
The “Four Hymns of the Second Coming” was especially meaningful because it was a chance to give our central message to an audience that may not put as much importance on it as we do. And, holding out that last high D on my trumpet at the end of the hymn and then listening to it echo afterward was a really satisfying experience. Hopefully another handful of souls will be in Heaven because of this performance.
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
A musician always looks for the perfect place for sound production. The Black Church at Brasov is such a location.
It was a real honor and privilege to glorify God and help strengthen people's faith in this church. Acoustically, there was about three seconds of reverberation. The sound seemed to continue on forever after the ending notes. Although there was no applause allowed (however, one person did applaud after a song and was quickly hushed by those around him), there seemed to be a complete feeling of reverence toward the music and the experience.
Personally, there were times at which I got goose bumps, especially after the ends of songs when the reverb took over. Lou did a fantastic job of directing the chorus, and they in turn did wonderful work, being well in tune and professional in appearance. God must have been smiling down upon us as we performed.
The “Four Hymns of the Second Coming” was especially meaningful because it was a chance to give our central message to an audience that may not put as much importance on it as we do. And, holding out that last high D on my trumpet at the end of the hymn and then listening to it echo afterward was a really satisfying experience. Hopefully another handful of souls will be in Heaven because of this performance.
Seeing God moving in the group
Pictured above: Ian Edgerton, singer, 2nd from left; far left, Levis Dragulin, musician
By Ian Edgerton, singer
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
Buna Ziua!! (Good day!)
The days are getting more exciting as we approach Saturday our final concert! Unfortunately the days are also passing more quickly :(
Regardless, I feel the Lord has been moving in our group in a powerful way. There is a cohesive atmosphere that is only created when Christ is the center of the effort. Thank you everyone back in the states for your prayers. With love, Ian Edgerton
Playing the organ in the Church on the Hill
Virginia Oliver plays the 1858 organ of the 13th-century Church on the Hill in the town of Sighisoara.
By Ron Oliver, singer, husband of Virginia Oliver, organist/pianist
Received Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. Pacific
There is a famous organ in the Black Church in Brasov. It is the largest organ in Romania and the only organ built by a famous German organ builder that survives in its original condition.
For the concert, it took a team of three organists to play it! Virginia played while the regular church organist and an assistant stood on either side of her moving the stops as needed. The keys and pedals are not today's standard size. The organ had four manuals and 4,000 pipes, and sounded magnificent.
The facility is called a church but is really a gothic cathedral.
Black Church concert well received in cathedral and online
Pictured above: The chorus sang in three groupings high above the main floor in the magnificent Black Church.
By Denny Nutter
Received Thursday, Apr 23, 2009 at 12:21 p.m. Pacific
Wednesday, April 22
This morning we left the Apollo Hotel in Targu Mures and pointed the buses toward Brasov where our evening concert was to be held. With a short drive time, we were privileged to stop along the way at the historical town of Sighisoara, which dates back over 800 years ago. Some of us immediately took the trail up Citadel Hill. Our final steps to the top took us through the tunnel or covered walk way (174 wooden steps) to the School on the Hill (operating today as the Joseph Haltrich High School).
Just above the school is the Church on the Hill. It was built in gothic style in the 13th century on top of the walls of a former chapel and then renovated in the 15th century to its current form. Some of us had the unique privilege of hearing a short concert by Virginia Oliver on the organ built in 1858 by Karl Schneider.
Others spent most of their time in the town below the Hill. There was plenty to see and absorb as we wandered through streets with towers and buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
After a fascinating time there, we made our way to the Conference Retreat Center (the former Romanian Theological Seminary) for lunch. Once we found our assigned rooms in the dorms we quickly changed into our performance attire and boarded the buses again for Brasov’s Black Church , so named for a fire that destroyed the spire years ago. The Black Church is a very large cathedral with excellent acoustics.
The Chorus made its way up a very narrow spiral staircase to the three sectioned choir loft in front of and either side of the majestic pipe organ. The pipe organ and the trumpet were our only accompaniment tonight. The audience sat on the ground level approximately 40 feet below us and joined in on two hymns – “Nearer, Still Nearer” and “Holy, Holy, Holy.” The cathedral’s center section was packed (800 plus, some estimates over 1000), which was a very special surprise. Due to the sacredness of the location no applause or flash photography was allowed.
Reports from those watching at home back in the States indicated having goose bumps and tears developing at the same time. Some of our support group seated downstairs reported that the concert was indescribably awesome and magnificent, another milestone in an incredible experience for the men of OAMC.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Cultural Palace concert experience
Photo of Cultural Palace concert hall by Estee Pummel
By Rick Pummel
Received Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 1:31 p.m. Pacific
The concert tonight was a phenomenal experience! The Cultural Palace is "one of the great concert halls of Europe," to quote what Lou told us today in his pep talk before the concert. Most members of the orchestra were local professionals hired for the performance. They were WONDERFUL. We even had a harp accompany us on “Blessed is the Nation.”
I looked over during the concert to see Levis Dragulin playing a new black trumpet, which he picked up in town (Targu Mures) today.
Estee (Rick’s wife) picked up a new pair of concert shoes for me today, made in Italy. The soles of the shoes I brought with me started falling off a couple days ago, in great chunks!
Transylvanian audience shows appreciation
Pictured: Tuesday evening's concert was held in the Palace of Culture in Targu Mures, in the region of Transylvania. The pipe organ has more 4663 tubes.
By Denny Nutter
Received by Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. Pacific
Tuesday, April 21
Tuesday morning provided the first opportunity to sleep in a bit and an optional trip to downtown Targu Mures to visit cathedrals, monuments, and the beautiful plaza in front of the Cultural Palace where we were to sing tonight. (More about the Cultural Palace here.) After a trip back to the Apollo Hotel for rehearsal and lunch, we re-boarded the bus in concert attire and headed back to the Cultural Palace which is one of Europe’s most prestigious concert halls.
What an awesome place to sing! Tonight’s accompanists included Targu Mures’ Symphony Orchestra and brass, a harpist, and one of our Romania chorus brothers playing the pan pipes. Virginia Oliver was able to tickle the keys of the grand organ far better than the usual electronic keyboard or organ – the majestic Cultural Palace pipe organ! The Symphony Maestro was in attendance and seemed to greatly enjoy the program.
Poor Lou probably wondered what he had gotten himself into during the rehearsal immediately preceding the concert. We had fewer Romanian men with us, voices were wearing out, and a frustrating lack of attention, or faces buried in the music instead of watching the conductor. Zach Parks asked the Romanian Chorus member next to him if he was feeling OK and he replied that he was but that he was in prayer for the concert. I’m sure many of us were, at that point as well.
After some serious reminders of what a bunch of amateurs were attempting but privileged to do this evening, the Holy Spirit took over and blessed us with what perhaps has been the best concert to date. The crowd was very receptive and responsive as hearts were touched.
Probably the most memorable moment in the concert came when Lou Wildman gave his introduction to “Deep River,” talking about the dark period of slavery in America’s history and the spirituals that came out of that period. He explained that not only was this piece of music descriptive of the slaves’ longing for heaven but for freedom from bondage in this life as well. He told of watching thousands of Romanians pour out into their streets to reclaim their freedom some twenty years ago as he watched on TV. Many nodded their heads remembering that time. “Tonight,” he said, “not only am I proud to be an American, but I am proud to be in Romania, and I salute you.”
After a moving rendition of “Deep River,” the audience applauded and applauded and then began to rhythmically applaud signaling that they wanted more and our concert wasn’t even over yet!
“The Four Hymns of the Second Coming” was also very well received and brought more rhythmic clapping. After the usual recognitions, gifts, flowers, and expressions of appreciation; the concert ended with a rousing rendition of “Soldiers of the Captain” – the first verse in Romanian, second verse in English, and the third verse sung simultaneously in Romanian and English.
Thank you, Jesus, for not only blessing the audience tonight but both men’s choruses as well!
Unplanned lunch stop brings blessings
By Denny Nutter
Received by Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. Pacific
Monday, April 20
The Lord has certainly blessed us with wonderful weather on this trip. Many of the places we performed or ate at would have been most difficult with inclement weather.
What an awesome day our trip planners arranged for on Monday. A sack breakfast was loaded on one of the buses as we departed Botosani. We stopped for breakfast at the Suceava Fortress built at the end of the 14th century and later modified several times by Alexand cel Bun (1400-1432) and Stephen the Great of Moldova (1457-1504). The group had a great time exploring the ancient fortress and singing in front of the ancient chapel.
The next stop was at the Monastery at Voronet also built in the 1400’s. It was covered in artwork tracing Old Testament history, the life of Christ and the final judgment. A local nun gave the history of the Monastery and described what the paintings depicted. Alin translated for her. When the nun’s tour was over we sang “Soldiers of the Captain” while other tourists looked on and applauded when we were done.
A very moving experience took place when we stopped for lunch at one of our SDA churches on the eastern slope (a different spot than originally planned). After a wonderful lunch and fellowship we slipped into the sanctuary to sing for the ladies who had worked so hard to prepare our meal.
One of the local church members who had enjoyed practicing his English during lunch insisted that we sing “Amazing Grace” before we sang anything else. There were not many dry eyes amongst us as the song came to a conclusion. He then went on to explain that this week had been very hard on their church family because the head elder had passed away. His widow was one of the ladies that had prepared the food and was moved to tears many times during the song. We then knew why God had directed us there and cried and hugged some more as we sang “We Have This Hope” with perhaps more meaning than we have ever felt before.
The remainder of the day we enjoyed the gorgeous scenic views from both sides of the alpine mountain range of Northern Romania. High on the ridge we stopped for photo opportunities and souvenir shopping at Hotel Dracula. The evening was spent descending the western slope to our destination of Targu Mures.
Received by Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. Pacific
Monday, April 20
The Lord has certainly blessed us with wonderful weather on this trip. Many of the places we performed or ate at would have been most difficult with inclement weather.
What an awesome day our trip planners arranged for on Monday. A sack breakfast was loaded on one of the buses as we departed Botosani. We stopped for breakfast at the Suceava Fortress built at the end of the 14th century and later modified several times by Alexand cel Bun (1400-1432) and Stephen the Great of Moldova (1457-1504). The group had a great time exploring the ancient fortress and singing in front of the ancient chapel.
The next stop was at the Monastery at Voronet also built in the 1400’s. It was covered in artwork tracing Old Testament history, the life of Christ and the final judgment. A local nun gave the history of the Monastery and described what the paintings depicted. Alin translated for her. When the nun’s tour was over we sang “Soldiers of the Captain” while other tourists looked on and applauded when we were done.
A very moving experience took place when we stopped for lunch at one of our SDA churches on the eastern slope (a different spot than originally planned). After a wonderful lunch and fellowship we slipped into the sanctuary to sing for the ladies who had worked so hard to prepare our meal.
One of the local church members who had enjoyed practicing his English during lunch insisted that we sing “Amazing Grace” before we sang anything else. There were not many dry eyes amongst us as the song came to a conclusion. He then went on to explain that this week had been very hard on their church family because the head elder had passed away. His widow was one of the ladies that had prepared the food and was moved to tears many times during the song. We then knew why God had directed us there and cried and hugged some more as we sang “We Have This Hope” with perhaps more meaning than we have ever felt before.
The remainder of the day we enjoyed the gorgeous scenic views from both sides of the alpine mountain range of Northern Romania. High on the ridge we stopped for photo opportunities and souvenir shopping at Hotel Dracula. The evening was spent descending the western slope to our destination of Targu Mures.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sabbath concerts to be webcast live via streaming video
The final two concerts of the Mission to Romania, to be held in the Radio Hall in Bucharest, on Sabbath, April 25, will be broadcast live via streaming video on the Internet.
The concerts will be at 7 and 10 a.m. Pacific (5 and 8 p.m. Romanian time, a 10-hour time difference).
Check back on the itinerary page and OAMC website (www.oamc.org) for the link to the streaming video.
Sabbath, April 25 Concerts in Bucharest
- Finale concerts will be streamed live to the web. Check the OAMC home page for details: www.oamc.org
2 p.m. local time – Chorus and musicians depart for Bucharest
5 p.m. (7 a.m. Pacific) – First concert at Radio Hall with TV taping for Romanian Adventist Media. This concert was added because the 8 p.m. concert – seating 900 – sold out.
8 p.m. (10 a.m. Pacific) – Final concert at Radio Hall with TV taping again.
New friends are treasures
By Rick Pummel
Received Monday, April 20, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. Pacific
It is very late Monday night. We are privileged this evening to stay in a wonderful hotel. Last night we (my wife, Estee, my son, Colin, and I) had an even greater privilege, to stay in the home of one of our young Romanian singers.
He checked with his parents and then invited us a couple days ago to stay at his house. Last night after arriving in town with the choir, his much older brother picked us up and drove us out to their parents’ home in a small village several kilometers outside the town where the choir was staying.
We were received VERY warmly and were immediately sat down to a supper prepared just for our family and the boy. Neither of his parents spoke any English, and our Romanian is extremely limited. So, he was kept quite busy translating. We had a wonderful evening together, asking about each other’s country, sharing stories, and so on. We shared pictures of the area around our home, which actually looks rather similar to the terrain surrounding their village.
I was taken back to my days as a student missionary (SM) due to the absence of an indoor toilet. Their bath arrangement was a definite improvement over my experience as an SM, as they had an indoor bath tub with water heated very nicely by a wood burning water heater. The water heater added a nice, cozy warmth to the room.
The morning found us refreshed and invigorated by the wonderful fresh air, the sounds of the chickens and nearby turkeys, and the warm glow of the sunrise. After a very beautiful breakfast of fresh vegetables, boiled farm fresh eggs in cream sauce and homemade bread, we were taken on a tour of their large greenhouse and their 20 or so beehives.
We then were forced to say goodbye to our new found friends, and were sent back to town with someone else, who had hosted Doug Woods for the night.
I thank God that the boy felt so loved and comfortable around us that he went so far as to bring us home. I pray that God’s love may always shine through us and overshadow any differences of culture, race, class, etc.
Nice hotels are a nice treat for a night, but the treasure of new Christian friends is golden and enduring.
Received Monday, April 20, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. Pacific
It is very late Monday night. We are privileged this evening to stay in a wonderful hotel. Last night we (my wife, Estee, my son, Colin, and I) had an even greater privilege, to stay in the home of one of our young Romanian singers.
He checked with his parents and then invited us a couple days ago to stay at his house. Last night after arriving in town with the choir, his much older brother picked us up and drove us out to their parents’ home in a small village several kilometers outside the town where the choir was staying.
We were received VERY warmly and were immediately sat down to a supper prepared just for our family and the boy. Neither of his parents spoke any English, and our Romanian is extremely limited. So, he was kept quite busy translating. We had a wonderful evening together, asking about each other’s country, sharing stories, and so on. We shared pictures of the area around our home, which actually looks rather similar to the terrain surrounding their village.
I was taken back to my days as a student missionary (SM) due to the absence of an indoor toilet. Their bath arrangement was a definite improvement over my experience as an SM, as they had an indoor bath tub with water heated very nicely by a wood burning water heater. The water heater added a nice, cozy warmth to the room.
The morning found us refreshed and invigorated by the wonderful fresh air, the sounds of the chickens and nearby turkeys, and the warm glow of the sunrise. After a very beautiful breakfast of fresh vegetables, boiled farm fresh eggs in cream sauce and homemade bread, we were taken on a tour of their large greenhouse and their 20 or so beehives.
We then were forced to say goodbye to our new found friends, and were sent back to town with someone else, who had hosted Doug Woods for the night.
I thank God that the boy felt so loved and comfortable around us that he went so far as to bring us home. I pray that God’s love may always shine through us and overshadow any differences of culture, race, class, etc.
Nice hotels are a nice treat for a night, but the treasure of new Christian friends is golden and enduring.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Orthodox Passover (Easter) in Botosani
By Denny Nutter
Received Sunday, April 19, 2009 at 10:35 p.m. Pacific
Sunday was another high day for us. As you know, it was the Orthodox Passover weekend (Easter). This is Alin's home town. We were fed twice (lunch and supper) by the church ladies of his congregation. We also had the privilege of meeting his wife and children.
It was exciting to have so many members of Alin's churches in the audience. Singing in the round is always a wonderful experience for members of the OAMC to mingle with the audience and sometimes share a book with them like Lowell and I did yesterday. Love flows as the Spirit moves. Sometimes we have the opportunity to encourage the men in the audience to join the Romanian Men's Chorus."
Received Sunday, April 19, 2009 at 10:35 p.m. Pacific
Sunday was another high day for us. As you know, it was the Orthodox Passover weekend (Easter). This is Alin's home town. We were fed twice (lunch and supper) by the church ladies of his congregation. We also had the privilege of meeting his wife and children.
It was exciting to have so many members of Alin's churches in the audience. Singing in the round is always a wonderful experience for members of the OAMC to mingle with the audience and sometimes share a book with them like Lowell and I did yesterday. Love flows as the Spirit moves. Sometimes we have the opportunity to encourage the men in the audience to join the Romanian Men's Chorus."
Recognizing God’s blessings
Received Date: Sun, Apr 19, 2009 at 9:59 p.m. Pacific
By members of OAMC
Rick Martin – The men and women and children of Romania are a happy people in general and under the influence of communism. I feel God has sent us here to experience the reality of true freedom so that we can fight against evil, from taking our religious freedom and to pray that God will come soon, just as our Romanian brothers and sisters her do.
Earle Knowles – I started the trip with the wrong contact lens, and expected to be unable to see my music. But through God’s providence (and Mr. Oliver’s generosity) I “received my sight.” And it has been a blessing to sing between two fine Romanian singers.
Elwood Starr – It was a powerfully moving experience for me as we gathered with the Romanian chorus for the first time in the seminary hall. As voices blended together we become one brotherhood in heart. PTL!
Angel – I did not expect a wonderful experience like this one. I have been blessed by the smiles of the people we sing to, by the fellowship with the Romanian brothers, by the fellowship among the OAMC. I hope that God continues bless our efforts and that when we get home we can pass these same blessings to our communities.
Ron Wearner – I have found the Romanian people to be very warm and friendly. It has been a joy and a blessing to join with the fine group of men that make up the Romanian Adventist Men’s Chorus. Just imagine what it will be like to sing with God’s people from everywhere when we get to heaven!
Doug Woods – I’ve been making friends with many of the Romanian singers. Those that speak some English (or French) are eager to practice it and to ask about America. I’m impressed with their musical ability and voice quality. They’ve been very welcoming and eager to interact. Another impressive thing has been how many of RAMC men are in their teens and early twenties! The camaraderie has been great!
Mike Andrews – I am honored to be in a group of OAMC members, to know that God is using us in a very special way to touch the hearts of the Romanian people. The Romanian people are musical. They love and understand God’s message.
Wellington Manullang – “The Four Hymns” is, of course, about the second coming. But when you hear more than 200 men sing, Romanian and American, it makes me feel as if I am already in heaven.
Steve Chapman – Getting to know my Christian brothers in Romania has been a blessing to me. To sing praises to God in a new country is such a privilege for me.
Dean and Janet Browning – Sabbath morning in the bus, we received such a blessing when a Romanian fellow quietly strummed “When We All Get To Heaven” on his guitar. Our voices blended in Romanian and English as one, all looking forward to that great day.
Leroy James – I want to thank all that made it possible to come. We have had a wonderful week. The brothers and sisters in Romania are wonderful. I have been greatly blessed.
Tom & Brooke Stafford – It is very encouraging to sing songs of praise with believers who have experienced religious oppression and survived. We will need these memories when we experience harassment for our beliefs. It is also great to meet our church members and see their land and its beauty.
Daniel Knapp – As we have traveled from city to city throughout Romania, we have been profoundly impacted by the stark contrasts in culture, architecture and subtle restrictions, the absence of which we take for granted. Yet, at the same time, we sense through their broken English translations with our friends here that, in spite of it, we do have the same hope, faith and understanding of the gospel. We long for the soon coming of the Lord. We are finding it easy to quickly develop intimate friendships with the Romanians involved with the chorus. We are finding frequent opportunities to witness to individuals as we hoped to do. We had a very emotional formal presentation last evening in a large auditorium in Galati. The city has a population of about 300,000. We had approximately 500 in the audience. It was an excellent event.
By members of OAMC
Rick Martin – The men and women and children of Romania are a happy people in general and under the influence of communism. I feel God has sent us here to experience the reality of true freedom so that we can fight against evil, from taking our religious freedom and to pray that God will come soon, just as our Romanian brothers and sisters her do.
Earle Knowles – I started the trip with the wrong contact lens, and expected to be unable to see my music. But through God’s providence (and Mr. Oliver’s generosity) I “received my sight.” And it has been a blessing to sing between two fine Romanian singers.
Elwood Starr – It was a powerfully moving experience for me as we gathered with the Romanian chorus for the first time in the seminary hall. As voices blended together we become one brotherhood in heart. PTL!
Angel – I did not expect a wonderful experience like this one. I have been blessed by the smiles of the people we sing to, by the fellowship with the Romanian brothers, by the fellowship among the OAMC. I hope that God continues bless our efforts and that when we get home we can pass these same blessings to our communities.
Ron Wearner – I have found the Romanian people to be very warm and friendly. It has been a joy and a blessing to join with the fine group of men that make up the Romanian Adventist Men’s Chorus. Just imagine what it will be like to sing with God’s people from everywhere when we get to heaven!
Doug Woods – I’ve been making friends with many of the Romanian singers. Those that speak some English (or French) are eager to practice it and to ask about America. I’m impressed with their musical ability and voice quality. They’ve been very welcoming and eager to interact. Another impressive thing has been how many of RAMC men are in their teens and early twenties! The camaraderie has been great!
Mike Andrews – I am honored to be in a group of OAMC members, to know that God is using us in a very special way to touch the hearts of the Romanian people. The Romanian people are musical. They love and understand God’s message.
Wellington Manullang – “The Four Hymns” is, of course, about the second coming. But when you hear more than 200 men sing, Romanian and American, it makes me feel as if I am already in heaven.
Steve Chapman – Getting to know my Christian brothers in Romania has been a blessing to me. To sing praises to God in a new country is such a privilege for me.
Dean and Janet Browning – Sabbath morning in the bus, we received such a blessing when a Romanian fellow quietly strummed “When We All Get To Heaven” on his guitar. Our voices blended in Romanian and English as one, all looking forward to that great day.
Leroy James – I want to thank all that made it possible to come. We have had a wonderful week. The brothers and sisters in Romania are wonderful. I have been greatly blessed.
Tom & Brooke Stafford – It is very encouraging to sing songs of praise with believers who have experienced religious oppression and survived. We will need these memories when we experience harassment for our beliefs. It is also great to meet our church members and see their land and its beauty.
Daniel Knapp – As we have traveled from city to city throughout Romania, we have been profoundly impacted by the stark contrasts in culture, architecture and subtle restrictions, the absence of which we take for granted. Yet, at the same time, we sense through their broken English translations with our friends here that, in spite of it, we do have the same hope, faith and understanding of the gospel. We long for the soon coming of the Lord. We are finding it easy to quickly develop intimate friendships with the Romanians involved with the chorus. We are finding frequent opportunities to witness to individuals as we hoped to do. We had a very emotional formal presentation last evening in a large auditorium in Galati. The city has a population of about 300,000. We had approximately 500 in the audience. It was an excellent event.
God’s Gift to US
Received Date: Sun, Apr 19, 2009 at 9:59 p.m. Pacific
April 19, 2009
From David and Mary Jo Cunnard
On the Road from Iasi to Bostosani
God’s Gift to US
What if there is a mission trip announced in your church and you cannot go? Can you still have a part? Can you still have an impact?
Some 15 years ago, John Wesslen planned a mission trip to Vaslui, Romania, from Tabernacle Church in downtown Portland. We were not able to go, but were able to support the trip financially, with our prayers and by sending small promise cards to be handed out to the Romanians.
During this first trip John made contact with a man whose sons and nephews had formed a small singing group. On John’s second trip, John invited these young men to sing during his meetings. One of them, Alin Apostol, expressed an interest in studying in the United States. With the help of those on the trip, Alin was cleared to attend Walla Walla College in 10 days! Alin graduated from WWC and returned to Romania as a pastor. During his time at WWC he was a member of OAMC.
As many of you who are acquainted with the OAMC Mission to Romania know, Alin Apostol is the driving force behind the Romanian Adventist Men’s Chorus and managing the OAMC logistics in Romania.
Saturday night in Iasi (pronounced Yawsh), I talked to Alin’s mother after we completed our second wonderful meal at their vegetarian restaurant. She told me that it was not until she met American Christians that she learned what it meant and how to truly love.
Can you have an impact? If people had not supported John’s mission trip, the OAMC Mission to Romania would probably not be happening. We may never know until we reach heaven how much of an impact our gifts and prayers have had. I never dreamed that I would see any results of my gifts in this life. Please remember that those who are only able to give and pray are just as important to the mission as those who go. May God be blessed.
April 19, 2009
From David and Mary Jo Cunnard
On the Road from Iasi to Bostosani
God’s Gift to US
What if there is a mission trip announced in your church and you cannot go? Can you still have a part? Can you still have an impact?
Some 15 years ago, John Wesslen planned a mission trip to Vaslui, Romania, from Tabernacle Church in downtown Portland. We were not able to go, but were able to support the trip financially, with our prayers and by sending small promise cards to be handed out to the Romanians.
During this first trip John made contact with a man whose sons and nephews had formed a small singing group. On John’s second trip, John invited these young men to sing during his meetings. One of them, Alin Apostol, expressed an interest in studying in the United States. With the help of those on the trip, Alin was cleared to attend Walla Walla College in 10 days! Alin graduated from WWC and returned to Romania as a pastor. During his time at WWC he was a member of OAMC.
As many of you who are acquainted with the OAMC Mission to Romania know, Alin Apostol is the driving force behind the Romanian Adventist Men’s Chorus and managing the OAMC logistics in Romania.
Saturday night in Iasi (pronounced Yawsh), I talked to Alin’s mother after we completed our second wonderful meal at their vegetarian restaurant. She told me that it was not until she met American Christians that she learned what it meant and how to truly love.
Can you have an impact? If people had not supported John’s mission trip, the OAMC Mission to Romania would probably not be happening. We may never know until we reach heaven how much of an impact our gifts and prayers have had. I never dreamed that I would see any results of my gifts in this life. Please remember that those who are only able to give and pray are just as important to the mission as those who go. May God be blessed.
Romanian musicians enjoying experience with concerts
From Alexandra Honciuc and Mihaela Ivan, orchestra musicians
Received Sun, Apr 19, 2009 at 9:09 a.m. Pacific
Hi!
We are Alexandra Honciuc and Mihaela Ivan from Romania, Iasi.
We're playing violin and viola in orchestra which sang [played] with the choir. We enjoyed a lot this experience because we met new and interesting people, with the same wish to sing.
We love American’s style, their way of living, because we they smile a lot and they are very funny some times. It was a pleasure for us to sing [play] among them. We hope they enjoyed as well.
Maybe next time we will sing also with you, in America....just joking. Good luck in your activities, and we hope we will meet again.
From Emerich Gherca and Emanuela Gherca, orchestra musicians (believed to be brother and sister)
Received Sun, Apr 19, 2009 at 9:09 a.m. Pacific
I'm cellist in the orchestra from Iasi and I like the way I was treated as a person and as an artist. I am glad that I could be part of this project because I have the opportunity to glorify the Lord with my gift.
God bless you all.
Iasi Concert Hall photo
This is the Concert hall in Iasi where the concert on Sabbath, April 18, was held. Photo by Bob Sproed.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Travel to and concert in Bacau
Click the photo or click here to see more photos.
By Denny Nutter
Friday, April 17, 2009, at 9:38 p.m. Pacific
Today was another beautiful, but very busy day.
After an early breakfast, we left Galati and headed north to Bacau. On the way, our bus drivers were kind enough to take us through the Gypsy town of Ivesti, which had very fascinating architecture. We observed many horse-drawn wagons and brightly-dressed Gypsy women.
We arrived at the Moldova Conference Office about 2 p.m. and walked a few blocks to the church closest to the Conference Office where we were treated to a feast of cabbage rolls, potato salad, fresh bread, corn-meal mush and a variety of desserts – lemon bars being one of the favorites. Apples have been made available to those that prefer fresh fruit or choose to use it for a toothbrush.
Tonight the group is staying at the Hotel Moldova right across from a mammoth Orthodox church under construction.
We were within easy walking distance (about five blocks) of our evening concert, which was held in the Ateneu Concert Hall. Again, nearly every seat was filled by a very enthusiastic audience. As they did last night, the audience responded very enthusiastically to OAMC’s attempt at singing the second verse of “Nearer, Still Nearer” in Romanian. The Romanian men we sing with are always very complimentary and say that our pronunciation is very good and that they can understand every word.
The concert was broadcast live tonight [on the Internet] and some in our chorus were able to get the church website address last minute to some of our friends and family back in the states, who were able to watch it online. [Editor's note: Saturday and Sunday concerts may also be broadcast, but it's not definite. Go here for details.]
The audience lustily joined us on the second chorus of “We Have This Hope” and was so touched by grandness of the men and the orchestra that we sang it a second time as an encore.
Everyday one can observe the friendship grow among the men of both choruses. Truly we getting a small taste of what heaven will be like.
Gypsy village between Galati and Bacau
Scenes from a gypsy village taken as the group traveled from Galati to Bacau.
Go here to see a few more scenes.
Photos by Ralph Stathem.
God in the back of the bus
By Zach Parks, 16-year-old singer
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
The last time that I wrote for this blog, I talked about the importance of intimacy. Here we are only a few days into the trip, and I had already a fantastic experience to back it up.
As we rode on the bus together yesterday, we got the wonderful chance to put what we talk about into practice. There were seven of us in the back of the bus, and we all slowly became involved in a conversation about the type of music that is appropriate in church. As many of you probably know, that is a very, very touchy subject. We talked and discussed for a couple of hours and after discussing, we decided to open ourselves to each other and become safe, and intimate.
We spent probably three or more hours in the back of that bus as the seven of us shared our life story, and how our spiritual life has grown. It was simply amazing to watch how God had worked, and is still working in people’s lives. The thing that was amazing was the diversity of the group. We had three boys under 16, and a young Romanian pastor, two middle-aged American men, and a 17-year-old Romanian boy.
All I can say is, yesterday (April 16) God moved. We came to Romania to do ministry, and yesterday’s bus ride was exactly the type of ministry that I believe God sent me and my dad here for. We got to listen as people poured their hearts out, and as we sat I believe any one of us would easily tell you one thing about that meeting … GOD WAS THERE.
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
The last time that I wrote for this blog, I talked about the importance of intimacy. Here we are only a few days into the trip, and I had already a fantastic experience to back it up.
As we rode on the bus together yesterday, we got the wonderful chance to put what we talk about into practice. There were seven of us in the back of the bus, and we all slowly became involved in a conversation about the type of music that is appropriate in church. As many of you probably know, that is a very, very touchy subject. We talked and discussed for a couple of hours and after discussing, we decided to open ourselves to each other and become safe, and intimate.
We spent probably three or more hours in the back of that bus as the seven of us shared our life story, and how our spiritual life has grown. It was simply amazing to watch how God had worked, and is still working in people’s lives. The thing that was amazing was the diversity of the group. We had three boys under 16, and a young Romanian pastor, two middle-aged American men, and a 17-year-old Romanian boy.
All I can say is, yesterday (April 16) God moved. We came to Romania to do ministry, and yesterday’s bus ride was exactly the type of ministry that I believe God sent me and my dad here for. We got to listen as people poured their hearts out, and as we sat I believe any one of us would easily tell you one thing about that meeting … GOD WAS THERE.
Young OAMC singer enjoys mission
By Elisha Bailey, 14-year-old singer
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
I have not written in before. I have been having the time of my life, although I miss my mom and family. I believe that God is on this trip because of the conversations on the bus and people learning to take another’s point of view. I have made many new friends, such as Alexandru Dichiu. I believe that God ordained these friendships. Until next time, Elisha Bailey
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
I have not written in before. I have been having the time of my life, although I miss my mom and family. I believe that God is on this trip because of the conversations on the bus and people learning to take another’s point of view. I have made many new friends, such as Alexandru Dichiu. I believe that God ordained these friendships. Until next time, Elisha Bailey
Young Romanian singer’s experience with OAMC
By Dinu Cotruta, one of our young Romanian members
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
Hi! My name is Dinu Cotruta, and I have to tell you that I am having a wonderfully good time with the guys. I didn’t believe that they were so friendly and that’s why I have to say that I am very surprised about this. The first time that I saw Lou, I saw in him a man with a lot of experience and a conductor who knows what decision to make for the good of everybody.
I have met some American people in this chorus that were very sociable with me and I am so glad about this. I wasn’t so decided that I’m going to go to [sing in] all the concerts, but now I want to have this experience with the guys.
I’m very happy and I believe that when our GOD is going to come for the second time, we’ll meet in his kingdom every one of us and we are going to make a huge chorus with the angels and our GOD, JESUS CHRIST. Amen
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
Hi! My name is Dinu Cotruta, and I have to tell you that I am having a wonderfully good time with the guys. I didn’t believe that they were so friendly and that’s why I have to say that I am very surprised about this. The first time that I saw Lou, I saw in him a man with a lot of experience and a conductor who knows what decision to make for the good of everybody.
I have met some American people in this chorus that were very sociable with me and I am so glad about this. I wasn’t so decided that I’m going to go to [sing in] all the concerts, but now I want to have this experience with the guys.
I’m very happy and I believe that when our GOD is going to come for the second time, we’ll meet in his kingdom every one of us and we are going to make a huge chorus with the angels and our GOD, JESUS CHRIST. Amen
Overnight in Galati in a Romanian home
By Donna Cavanaugh
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
What an experience we had yesterday (Thursday, April 16). After a wonderful concert at the Adventist church in Galati a friendly Romanian lady came up to us talking a blue streak. We couldn't understand her at first, but with sign language she indicated she wanted us to come sleep at her house. We got our luggage off the bus concerned if she'd have a car big enough. Not to worry – she called a cab and took us and our luggage home.
She showed us what must be their sitting room and pulled the couch out to make a 3/4 size bed. We asked about the restroom and her husband took us outside down the little trail they'd marked and showed us the outhouse. No lights out there; only had to make one more trip in the middle of the night setting the neighbor dogs to barking.
In the morning they took us to the kitchen where Ioan, Maria's husband, brought us in some water to wash with while Maria cooked us eggs, made a salad of fresh and so tasty tomatoes, radishes, young onions Ioan had just pulled and parsley. Maria had home-made bread and yogurt. We couldn't eat as much as she thought we should so she insisted we take bread and yogurt with us.
After loading us with gifts they called a cab and Maria rode with us to meet our group at the hotel. Maria practiced her Spanish with the driver who had spent a year in Spain.. Through a young Romanian man traveling with us she told us what a blessing the men's singing was to her.
I don't think we could adequately express how memorable her kindness was to us.
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
What an experience we had yesterday (Thursday, April 16). After a wonderful concert at the Adventist church in Galati a friendly Romanian lady came up to us talking a blue streak. We couldn't understand her at first, but with sign language she indicated she wanted us to come sleep at her house. We got our luggage off the bus concerned if she'd have a car big enough. Not to worry – she called a cab and took us and our luggage home.
She showed us what must be their sitting room and pulled the couch out to make a 3/4 size bed. We asked about the restroom and her husband took us outside down the little trail they'd marked and showed us the outhouse. No lights out there; only had to make one more trip in the middle of the night setting the neighbor dogs to barking.
In the morning they took us to the kitchen where Ioan, Maria's husband, brought us in some water to wash with while Maria cooked us eggs, made a salad of fresh and so tasty tomatoes, radishes, young onions Ioan had just pulled and parsley. Maria had home-made bread and yogurt. We couldn't eat as much as she thought we should so she insisted we take bread and yogurt with us.
After loading us with gifts they called a cab and Maria rode with us to meet our group at the hotel. Maria practiced her Spanish with the driver who had spent a year in Spain.. Through a young Romanian man traveling with us she told us what a blessing the men's singing was to her.
I don't think we could adequately express how memorable her kindness was to us.
Romanians making wonderful meals for group
From Ron & Rhonda Tilley
Received Friday, Apr 17, 2009 at 1:21 p.m. Pacific
April 16, 2009
What a treat! The meals the Romanian women have been fixing for us are simple, but delicious. Lots of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, apples and different cheeses have accompanied cabbage rolls and potato salad and always plenty of bread. They have done a wonderful job preparing food for up to 200 of us.
These women of the Galati Adventist church prepared dinner for the group.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Weekend concerts may be broadcast on web
I've learned -- and this is secondhand information, so we don't know for sure yet -- that this weekend's concerts may be broadcast and viewed on the web via live streaming video. (These broadcasts will not be archived for later viewing, I'm told.)
Please note the local Pacific times in this post. A message earlier got away from me in which I had incorrectly calculated the times.
Sabbath, April 18 – Iasi
6 p.m. concert in Iasi (8 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast
via streaming video on the web.
Check here www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Sunday, April 19 – Botosani
3 p.m. concert in Botosani (5 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be
broadcast via streaming video on the web.
Check here www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
This information is also posted on the itinerary page here.
Please note the local Pacific times in this post. A message earlier got away from me in which I had incorrectly calculated the times.
Sabbath, April 18 – Iasi
6 p.m. concert in Iasi (8 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast
via streaming video on the web.
Check here www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Sunday, April 19 – Botosani
3 p.m. concert in Botosani (5 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be
broadcast via streaming video on the web.
Check here www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
This information is also posted on the itinerary page here.
View live concert in Internet Explorer
If you're having difficulty viewing the concert in Firefox, try Internet Explorer instead.
The concert started at 8 a.m. Pacific, 6 p.m. Romanian time.
http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
The concert started at 8 a.m. Pacific, 6 p.m. Romanian time.
http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Direct Link to LIVE Concert video -- NOW (corrected)
(Had to fix something I didn't quite get right the first time around)...
Here's the link that takes you directly to the video page:
http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Here's the link that takes you directly to the video page:
http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
OAMC Concert LIVE from Bacau -- NOW
Just received word a few minutes ago that the concert in Bacau is being broadcast live on the Internet.
To see and hear the concert, go to http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro (SDA Church Moldova Conference website) and click on the Video Live link at the top left.
Feel free to leave your comments about the concert and what you see here in the Comments for this post.
To see and hear the concert, go to http://www.conferinta-moldova.ro (SDA Church Moldova Conference website) and click on the Video Live link at the top left.
Feel free to leave your comments about the concert and what you see here in the Comments for this post.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
First Concert in Galati
First Concert in Galati
By Denny Nutter
Received Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 10:05 p.m. Pacific
On Thursday our group boarded the buses and headed to the Adventist church in Galati. We were greeted warmly by the pastor, who was with us at during our practice sessions at the seminary. The church ladies had prepared a scrumptious feast for us.
The church was packed for our 6 p.m. concert and the Lord blessed. My personal reward was the warm hugs from one of our church brethren who repeated over and over again with tears in his eyes, “I love you so much! God bless you!” I'm sure that many others in the group experienced the same.
To be perfectly honest, as we sang “We have this Hope,” I had goose bumps all over and tears filled my own eyes as I looked at the sincere faces in our audience. Of course, the other eye was constantly on Lou when I could see him (we were very crowded on the platform)!
By Denny Nutter
Received Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 10:05 p.m. Pacific
On Thursday our group boarded the buses and headed to the Adventist church in Galati. We were greeted warmly by the pastor, who was with us at during our practice sessions at the seminary. The church ladies had prepared a scrumptious feast for us.
The church was packed for our 6 p.m. concert and the Lord blessed. My personal reward was the warm hugs from one of our church brethren who repeated over and over again with tears in his eyes, “I love you so much! God bless you!” I'm sure that many others in the group experienced the same.
To be perfectly honest, as we sang “We have this Hope,” I had goose bumps all over and tears filled my own eyes as I looked at the sincere faces in our audience. Of course, the other eye was constantly on Lou when I could see him (we were very crowded on the platform)!
The Home I Never Knew
Pictured: Levis (left) and Paul Dragulin, with Lou Wildman at rehearsal at Cernica.
The Home I Never Knew
By Paul Dragulin, 2nd Tenor, member of Sunnyside SDA church
Received Wednesday, Apr 15, 2009 at 1:26 p.m. Pacific
My name is Paul Dragulin and I have been a singer in the OAMC for two-and-a-half years. My brother Levis has played trumpet with the group for about 10 years.
Both of us are full-blooded Romanians. Our parents, Victor and Rodica, lived in Romania during the communist years and experienced many troubles. However, by God's miracles and power, they were sustained and were allowed to leave before communism fell in 1989. Levis was about one year old at the time and I was born about a year later in the United States.
We had never been back to visit Romania in about 25 years. It was after I joined the OAMC that I learned of this mission trip and my parents decided to support Levis and me in going to visit the land where we came from.
A week or two before our departure, for a birthday present, our mother surprised our father with a month-long trip to Romania to visit his mother and friends. As I write this, my father, my brother and I are seeing the land that none of us have seen in about 25 years.
Upon arriving in the airport in Bucharest two days ago, we met our father who had already been in the city for a week. With him was a short, sweet old lady who we both knew was the grandmother that neither Levis nor I had ever met. After a short few moments embracing and talking we were forced to part again because the OAMC group had to immediately leave for the hotel.
Just tonight (Wednesday) I met by a Romanian singer in our combined chorus named Titus who embraced me firmly and told me that he had worked with my father fixing medical machines and hadn't seen either of my parents in about 25 years. He offered to drive my brother and me to where my father and grandmother were staying after supper.
When we arrived at their small home in the crowded city a few hours ago, neither our father nor grandmother were there, but instead there were other relatives we had never seen before – our uncle Lucian and a cousin. They were very warm and excited to see us. They showed us the room where Levis stayed for a year, which he immediately recognized.
After about 20 minutes, we had to leave because it was late. However, we have invited my father, my grandmother, my uncle, cousin and their relatives to come to the final concert in Bucharest on April 25. I hope that on that occasion that Levis and I will have a much fuller experience with these people that I should have known already for years. As far as I can tell, from what they've said and pictures in their home, they are Christians. That warms me with the thought that all of my family may be in heaven.
I had never planned to go to Romania nor had I made any specific plans prior to this mission trip to visit these distant relatives. However, this experience has taught me just what Lou and the others have said for years: what we plan for ourselves and our lives always falls short of what God plans to do with us. Just give Him permission to make your life full with many rich experiences and He will do it.
OAMC in Romania route map
A map tracing the travel route. Travel is in a counterclockwise direction.
Follow the OAMC travels with the itinerary and this map. View a larger version by clicking on the map to go Flickr.com, then choose the "All sizes" magnifying glass icon at the top of the picture to enlarge it.
Another map showing the travel destinations is posted here.
OAMC Mission to Romania Itinerary - updated #2
April 12-26, 2009
I've updated this post with a note about the time difference. Also, I've learned that the Saturday and Sunday, April 18 & 19, concerts may be broadcast -- there's still some question about it -- and viewed live on the web via streaming video. The link has been posted on the itinerary below.
View a map here of Romania showing the cities.
Times are 10 hours ahead of the Pacific time zone.
Sunday, April 12 – Depart from Portland
Northwest Airlines flight 92 non-stop to Amsterdam
Monday, April 13 – Depart Amsterdam, arrive Bucharest
Tuesday, April 14 – Bucharest
Morning rehearsal at SDA theological seminary in Cernica
Afternoon rehearsal with Romanian men at seminary
Day tour of Bucharest for family members not involved with practice.
Wednesday, April 15 – Bucharest
Rehearsal and audio recording at SDA theological seminary in Cernica
Day tour of Bucharest for family members not involved with the rehearsal and audio recording.
Thursday, April 16 – Galati
Depart for Galati; fellowship lunch at Galati SDA Church
6 p.m. concert at the Galati SDA Church
Accommodations in Galati provided by local host families and/or hotel
Friday, April 17 – Bacau
8:30 a.m. depart for Bacau.
6 p.m. concert Bacau
Accommodations are a hotel in Bacau
Sabbath, April 18 – Iasi
8:30 a.m. depart for travel to church in Iasi
6 p.m. concert in Iasi (8 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast via streaming video on the web. Check at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Accommodations in provided by local host families and/or hotel
Sunday, April 19 – Botosani
10:30 a.m. depart for Botosani; fellowship lunch with Botosani SDA Church
3 p.m. concert in Botosani (5 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast via streaming video on the web. Check at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Accommodations provided by local host families and/or hotel
Monday, April 20 – Targu Mures
8:30 a.m. – Targu Mures via Carpathian Mountains
Accommodations in Targu Mures are the Apollo Hotel, part of the Benta Group, an Adventist-owned corporation. The hotel theme is wellness. Healthy, delicious meals are the norm in the hotel’s attractive restaurant.
Tuesday, April 21 – Targu Mures
Rest day. Optional sightseeing.
6 p.m. – Concert
Wednesday, April 22 – Brasov
8:30 a.m. – Depart for Brasov
6 p.m. – Concert in the Black Church
Accommodations in Brasov will be the former Stupini SDA Seminary, which was taken over by the government during the communist era. Several years ago it was returned to the SDA church.
Thursday, April 22 – Brasov, Sinaia, Bucharest
Rest and touring in Brasov and Sinaia; touring the Peles Castle; travel to Bucharest.
Accommodations are the Adventist seminary in Cernica; students are on break this week.
a
Friday, April 24 – Bucharest
8:30 a.m. – Depart for Bucharest
Visit Casa Poporului for a private tour of the seat of the Romanian parliament building and many governmental agencies. The building is the second largest in the world after the Pentagon. Built by the last communist government, many people lost their lives in its construction. Legend has it that there is even an underground marina where the former communist leader had a yacht ready to take him out of the city. After tour, return to Cernica Theological Seminary for afternoon rehearsal and sundown vespers.
Sabbath, April 25 – Cernica / Concerts in Bucharest
9 a.m. – Worship service at seminary in Cernica
2 p.m. – Depart for Bucharest
5 p.m. (7 a.m. Pacific) – First concert at Radio Hall with TV taping for Romanian Adventist Media. This concert was added because the 8 p.m. concert – seating 900 – sold out.
8 p.m. (10 a.m. Pacific) – Final concert at Radio Hall with TV taping again.
Sunday, April 26 – Portland
3 a.m. – Bus departs for Otopeni International Airport, Bucharest.
6:05 a.m. – Flight NW 8358 (KLM 1358) departs for Amsterdam. Breakfast served en route. Arrive Amsterdam 7:50 a.m.
9:15 a.m. – Assemble at Northwest Airlines flight 91 departure gate for security screening and passport check.
9:30 a.m. – Commence boarding.
10:30 a.m. – NW Airline flight 91 departs Amsterdam for Portland
11:50 a.m. Pacific – Arrive in Portland. You will complete Immigration, Agriculture, and Customs inspections on arrival. You and your luggage will then board the International Arrivals bus to the main terminal. You will be exiting into the terminal next to baggage claim 10.
A ride will be provided for those that parked their cars at Sunnyside SDA Church.
Family at home can monitor the progress of domestic flights at www.FlightAware.com. In the box in the left-hand column that says “Track Commercial Flight,” enter the airline and flight number.
I've updated this post with a note about the time difference. Also, I've learned that the Saturday and Sunday, April 18 & 19, concerts may be broadcast -- there's still some question about it -- and viewed live on the web via streaming video. The link has been posted on the itinerary below.
View a map here of Romania showing the cities.
Times are 10 hours ahead of the Pacific time zone.
Sunday, April 12 – Depart from Portland
Northwest Airlines flight 92 non-stop to Amsterdam
Monday, April 13 – Depart Amsterdam, arrive Bucharest
Tuesday, April 14 – Bucharest
Morning rehearsal at SDA theological seminary in Cernica
Afternoon rehearsal with Romanian men at seminary
Day tour of Bucharest for family members not involved with practice.
Wednesday, April 15 – Bucharest
Rehearsal and audio recording at SDA theological seminary in Cernica
Day tour of Bucharest for family members not involved with the rehearsal and audio recording.
Thursday, April 16 – Galati
Depart for Galati; fellowship lunch at Galati SDA Church
6 p.m. concert at the Galati SDA Church
Accommodations in Galati provided by local host families and/or hotel
Friday, April 17 – Bacau
8:30 a.m. depart for Bacau.
6 p.m. concert Bacau
Accommodations are a hotel in Bacau
Sabbath, April 18 – Iasi
8:30 a.m. depart for travel to church in Iasi
6 p.m. concert in Iasi (8 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast via streaming video on the web. Check at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Accommodations in provided by local host families and/or hotel
Sunday, April 19 – Botosani
10:30 a.m. depart for Botosani; fellowship lunch with Botosani SDA Church
3 p.m. concert in Botosani (5 a.m. Pacific) -- Concert might be broadcast via streaming video on the web. Check at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php
Accommodations provided by local host families and/or hotel
Monday, April 20 – Targu Mures
8:30 a.m. – Targu Mures via Carpathian Mountains
Accommodations in Targu Mures are the Apollo Hotel, part of the Benta Group, an Adventist-owned corporation. The hotel theme is wellness. Healthy, delicious meals are the norm in the hotel’s attractive restaurant.
Tuesday, April 21 – Targu Mures
Rest day. Optional sightseeing.
6 p.m. – Concert
Wednesday, April 22 – Brasov
8:30 a.m. – Depart for Brasov
6 p.m. – Concert in the Black Church
Accommodations in Brasov will be the former Stupini SDA Seminary, which was taken over by the government during the communist era. Several years ago it was returned to the SDA church.
Thursday, April 22 – Brasov, Sinaia, Bucharest
Rest and touring in Brasov and Sinaia; touring the Peles Castle; travel to Bucharest.
Accommodations are the Adventist seminary in Cernica; students are on break this week.
a
Friday, April 24 – Bucharest
8:30 a.m. – Depart for Bucharest
Visit Casa Poporului for a private tour of the seat of the Romanian parliament building and many governmental agencies. The building is the second largest in the world after the Pentagon. Built by the last communist government, many people lost their lives in its construction. Legend has it that there is even an underground marina where the former communist leader had a yacht ready to take him out of the city. After tour, return to Cernica Theological Seminary for afternoon rehearsal and sundown vespers.
Sabbath, April 25 – Cernica / Concerts in Bucharest
9 a.m. – Worship service at seminary in Cernica
- Finale concerts will be streamed live to the web. Go directly to the video streaming page at www.conferinta-moldova.ro/live.php. Or link from the OAMC home page at www.oamc.org.
2 p.m. – Depart for Bucharest
5 p.m. (7 a.m. Pacific) – First concert at Radio Hall with TV taping for Romanian Adventist Media. This concert was added because the 8 p.m. concert – seating 900 – sold out.
8 p.m. (10 a.m. Pacific) – Final concert at Radio Hall with TV taping again.
Sunday, April 26 – Portland
3 a.m. – Bus departs for Otopeni International Airport, Bucharest.
6:05 a.m. – Flight NW 8358 (KLM 1358) departs for Amsterdam. Breakfast served en route. Arrive Amsterdam 7:50 a.m.
9:15 a.m. – Assemble at Northwest Airlines flight 91 departure gate for security screening and passport check.
9:30 a.m. – Commence boarding.
10:30 a.m. – NW Airline flight 91 departs Amsterdam for Portland
11:50 a.m. Pacific – Arrive in Portland. You will complete Immigration, Agriculture, and Customs inspections on arrival. You and your luggage will then board the International Arrivals bus to the main terminal. You will be exiting into the terminal next to baggage claim 10.
A ride will be provided for those that parked their cars at Sunnyside SDA Church.
Family at home can monitor the progress of domestic flights at www.FlightAware.com. In the box in the left-hand column that says “Track Commercial Flight,” enter the airline and flight number.
Photos of 2nd rehearsal day, 4-15-09, with Romanian Brass
On the second day of rehearsal on Wednesday, April 15, the combined chorus was joined by the esteemed Romanian Brass.
Photos of 1st rehearsal, Oregon & Romania men meet
Here are photos of the first meeting of the Oregon and Romania choruses, the men singing together and getting acquainted.
Here's an MP3 of some of the two choruses singing "Soldiers of the Captain" as described in earlier blog posts. First the Romanian men sing, then the Oregon men sing.
http://www.oamc.org/audio/Romania09/RAMCOAMC.mp3
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Oregon and Romanian Choruses’ First Meeting and Rehearsal
Pictured: The auditorium of the Adventist seminary where the men of the Oregon and Romanian first met and rehearsed on Tuesday.
From John Korb, OAMC singer, bass
Received Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 1:20 PM Pacific
Picture this. In the chapel of the Romanian Adventist Theological Institute (Institutul Teologic Adventist), in the village of Cernica near Bucharest, 200 men from two choruses, originating from two continents thousands of miles apart, finally joined together and lifted their voices in praise to God. At that moment, with the downbeat of “Soldiers of the Captain,” all the hopes, dreams and miracles prayed for since our first invitation to Romania more than eight years ago came together in four-part harmony.
The Romanian Adventist Men’s Chorus (RAMC) of about 120 men circled one half of the chapel. Ninety members of OAMC lined up across from them. Facing each other, RAMC director Alin Apostol led his members singing in Romanian, “Soldiers of the Captain, stand for Him and fight!” OAMC answered the “call for action” singing, “Jesus, Captain help us, soldiers true to be. Living dying, ever fighting Lord for thee.”
“We came to Romania as two separate choirs,” Lou Wildman declared. However, he reminded us that “we are brothers in Christ and we would now become one chorus.” Singers from both choruses took their seats. As the rehearsal progressed, OAMC’s anthem, “We Have This Hope” filled the chapel, only this time it was sung in the beautiful Romanian language.
With this integration of both choruses, another chapter in the 15-year history of the OAMC ministry has begun. David Schmidt, OAMC chorus president, shared that what began as a request for some special music for Easter at the East Salem, Oregon, church has grown into an international chorus making its debut during the week of Romanian Orthodox Easter (Passover) celebration.
“Our vision was for one concert, one Easter weekend,” said David. “God’s plan was for 15 years of ministry touching the lives of hundreds of chorus members and thousands of others who have attended the chorus festivals. We never could have imagined that God would bring us to Romania.”
There is one more day of rehearsal then it is off to Bacau, which is slightly north and east of Bucharest for the first concert.
Please remember us in your prayers as we perform for our first Romanian audience on Thursday.
Romanian Adventist seminary entrance
The stone sign that greets you at the Romanian Adventist seminary entrance.
Romanian Adventist Theological Institute
Here is the exterior of the Romanian Adventist Theological Institute where the men of the Oregon and Romanian choruses first met on Tuesday, the 14th.
Making Friends with RAMC, from Zach Parks, 16
From Zach Parks, 16, son of Pastor Gary Parks (who is also on the Mission)
Receved Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 12:58 PM Pacific
Romania … Romania?? Romania!!!
It was a very long, but fun flight. After arriving at the Rin Grand Hotel, we quickly went to sleep, preparing for the next day. We woke excited for the first day of practice, and just being together in Romania.
We are currently practicing in the SDA theological seminary, where the chapel is beautiful and has great acoustics. We worked out technical difficulties for most of the early morning and then sang a song before going to lunch.
As the Romanians filed into the room (for the afternoon rehearsal), there was a sense of excitement as new people, voices, personalities and languages were added to us.
Lou had them sing for us the song we do a cappella, “Soldiers of the Captain.” It was simply amazing as they sang with perfect unity, harmony and heavenly (and practice-assisted) grace. I wondered if we weren’t here to learn and be ministered to as much as we were here to teach and minister. We sang the same song for them and began practice.
How can I describe what it sounds like to sing with over 200 men? The sound was absolutely enormous and powerful as God sent his voice in the best quality that we can use, through his servants. The best words to describe the sound? Simply amazing!!
I sat next to a Romanian in his thirties. As we sat and sang together he described to me how grateful they were to have us come. He said something to the effect that it was so very important to have contact underneath the normal chit-chat level, how we need to be intimate, and they want to learn.
Intimacy hurts. It really hurts to be honest about your own stinking behavior, and to be open to having someone else be right. It hurts to expose your weaknesses to others, but at the same time it heals. My dad and I talk intimately a lot.
Another important aspect of intimacy is to allow that person to push you to grow. I was glad for the reminder about continuing to grow. I began to realize that I was here to learn as well. I am here to learn how to be happy with nothing and excited about things we take for granted such as freedom. We have never been forced to go to school on Sabbath, or live in a filthy dirty, cold, small and ugly concrete apartment.
This young man said that we “give them wings”… If we are open with each other, and learn to love life right where we are in this moment, and add God, we will be living heaven on earth.
Receved Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 12:58 PM Pacific
Romania … Romania?? Romania!!!
It was a very long, but fun flight. After arriving at the Rin Grand Hotel, we quickly went to sleep, preparing for the next day. We woke excited for the first day of practice, and just being together in Romania.
We are currently practicing in the SDA theological seminary, where the chapel is beautiful and has great acoustics. We worked out technical difficulties for most of the early morning and then sang a song before going to lunch.
As the Romanians filed into the room (for the afternoon rehearsal), there was a sense of excitement as new people, voices, personalities and languages were added to us.
Lou had them sing for us the song we do a cappella, “Soldiers of the Captain.” It was simply amazing as they sang with perfect unity, harmony and heavenly (and practice-assisted) grace. I wondered if we weren’t here to learn and be ministered to as much as we were here to teach and minister. We sang the same song for them and began practice.
How can I describe what it sounds like to sing with over 200 men? The sound was absolutely enormous and powerful as God sent his voice in the best quality that we can use, through his servants. The best words to describe the sound? Simply amazing!!
I sat next to a Romanian in his thirties. As we sat and sang together he described to me how grateful they were to have us come. He said something to the effect that it was so very important to have contact underneath the normal chit-chat level, how we need to be intimate, and they want to learn.
Intimacy hurts. It really hurts to be honest about your own stinking behavior, and to be open to having someone else be right. It hurts to expose your weaknesses to others, but at the same time it heals. My dad and I talk intimately a lot.
Another important aspect of intimacy is to allow that person to push you to grow. I was glad for the reminder about continuing to grow. I began to realize that I was here to learn as well. I am here to learn how to be happy with nothing and excited about things we take for granted such as freedom. We have never been forced to go to school on Sabbath, or live in a filthy dirty, cold, small and ugly concrete apartment.
This young man said that we “give them wings”… If we are open with each other, and learn to love life right where we are in this moment, and add God, we will be living heaven on earth.
Mission to Romania, Day 2, from Denny Nutter
From Denny Nutter, OAMC singer
Received Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 1:13 PM Pacific
Day 2 – First Day In Romania
This morning we had wonderful a breakfast buffet at 7 a.m. at our hotel, and then boarded buses at 11 a.m. to head out to the Romanian Theological Seminary, where OAMC practiced a few songs and had a wonderful lunch in the cafeteria. After lunch, about 121 of the RAMC (Romania Adventist Men’s Chorus) men joined us. They sang “Soldiers of the Captain” in Romanian and then OAMC sang it in English. Both groups gave each other a rousing round of applause and then we were seated in three major choirs with a mix of OAMC and RAMC singers.
What fun as we got acquainted with each other and practiced our Romanian and English with each other! Alin Apostol, the RAMC director, and Lou Wildman, the OAMC director, each gave tips and pointers, which were translated for both groups.
During a mid-afternoon break we acknowledged the oldest singer with us, 83-year-old Norman Skeels, and the youngest, Mircea, a 14-year-old Orthodox teen who begged his mother to let him sing and travel with the RAMC. Alin told his story and we were all thrilled that he will able to join us for the entire two weeks.
Tomorrow we will be practicing with the Romanian Brass (supposedly as good as or better than the Canadian Brass) for our final concert in Bucharest.
Our TV video taping originally scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed until the final concert at the Radio Hall in Bucharest (on April 25), which will be recorded live. We should be at our best by then!
We concluded the day with another delicious Romanian meal at the Seminary cafeteria with Tom Stafford’s custom-Romanian-made 75th birthday cake for dessert!
Some of us were fortunate enough to ride back to the hotel on the Romanian chorus bus, which was filled with rehearsal songs in four-part harmony plus some bonus numbers, such as “Battle Hymn of the Republic” in Romanian and “I’ve Got Peace Like a River” in English.
What an awesome experience to hear the words, “When I gaze into the night sky…” as we pulled out into the darkness from the seminary parking lot.
Received Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 1:13 PM Pacific
Day 2 – First Day In Romania
This morning we had wonderful a breakfast buffet at 7 a.m. at our hotel, and then boarded buses at 11 a.m. to head out to the Romanian Theological Seminary, where OAMC practiced a few songs and had a wonderful lunch in the cafeteria. After lunch, about 121 of the RAMC (Romania Adventist Men’s Chorus) men joined us. They sang “Soldiers of the Captain” in Romanian and then OAMC sang it in English. Both groups gave each other a rousing round of applause and then we were seated in three major choirs with a mix of OAMC and RAMC singers.
What fun as we got acquainted with each other and practiced our Romanian and English with each other! Alin Apostol, the RAMC director, and Lou Wildman, the OAMC director, each gave tips and pointers, which were translated for both groups.
During a mid-afternoon break we acknowledged the oldest singer with us, 83-year-old Norman Skeels, and the youngest, Mircea, a 14-year-old Orthodox teen who begged his mother to let him sing and travel with the RAMC. Alin told his story and we were all thrilled that he will able to join us for the entire two weeks.
Tomorrow we will be practicing with the Romanian Brass (supposedly as good as or better than the Canadian Brass) for our final concert in Bucharest.
Our TV video taping originally scheduled for tomorrow has been postponed until the final concert at the Radio Hall in Bucharest (on April 25), which will be recorded live. We should be at our best by then!
We concluded the day with another delicious Romanian meal at the Seminary cafeteria with Tom Stafford’s custom-Romanian-made 75th birthday cake for dessert!
Some of us were fortunate enough to ride back to the hotel on the Romanian chorus bus, which was filled with rehearsal songs in four-part harmony plus some bonus numbers, such as “Battle Hymn of the Republic” in Romanian and “I’ve Got Peace Like a River” in English.
What an awesome experience to hear the words, “When I gaze into the night sky…” as we pulled out into the darkness from the seminary parking lot.
Mission to Romania, Day 1, from Denny Nutter
From Denny Nutter, OAMC singer
Received Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 1:13 PM Pacific
Day 1, April 12/13
The group that left on Sunday, the 12th, met at the Sunnyside Church and surprised the group leaders by actually showing up at the appointed time. Suitcases were weighed, passports confirmed, CDs and equipment added to suitcases that had weight to spare, and Romanian currency distributed. After the luggage was loaded on a truck, two PAA buses were waiting for passengers for the trip to the airport. Each passenger chose an airport and trip buddy to keep track of until arrival in Bucharest.
Things were well organized for the group to proceed through the lines to check baggage and obtain boarding passes. Once through security, the group met again and then proceeded to the gate. Several group photos were taken as the enthusiastic group sang Power in the Blood and then began boarding the plane.
The plane took the polar cap route across the tip of Iceland to Amsterdam, where we changed planes for the final leg to Bucharest. The first leg was a long flight (10 hours) with several meals served in flight. Some of group paced the isles and visited; others slept or watched movies, some tried to sleep but were frustrated with their attempts. Most of us were impressed with the good service and friendliness of the flight attendants, despite the challenges the variety of menu selections gave them.
It was a good thing that we had the time available to make the second flight! Those on the earlier flight out of Amsterdam had the gate changed three times as they proceeded through the airport. Oh well, our legs and brains needed the exercise.
Again, the staff did an excellent job informing the gang of each step from plane, to baggage claim, to customs, and out to the bus and luggage truck. Once on the bus, Edie Ciobanu gave a wonderful description of buildings and landmarks as we made our way to our hotel. Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the advance group. Once hotels were assigned, many were only too glad to find their room and attempt to catch up on sleep.
Received Tue, Apr 14, 2009 at 1:13 PM Pacific
Day 1, April 12/13
The group that left on Sunday, the 12th, met at the Sunnyside Church and surprised the group leaders by actually showing up at the appointed time. Suitcases were weighed, passports confirmed, CDs and equipment added to suitcases that had weight to spare, and Romanian currency distributed. After the luggage was loaded on a truck, two PAA buses were waiting for passengers for the trip to the airport. Each passenger chose an airport and trip buddy to keep track of until arrival in Bucharest.
Things were well organized for the group to proceed through the lines to check baggage and obtain boarding passes. Once through security, the group met again and then proceeded to the gate. Several group photos were taken as the enthusiastic group sang Power in the Blood and then began boarding the plane.
The plane took the polar cap route across the tip of Iceland to Amsterdam, where we changed planes for the final leg to Bucharest. The first leg was a long flight (10 hours) with several meals served in flight. Some of group paced the isles and visited; others slept or watched movies, some tried to sleep but were frustrated with their attempts. Most of us were impressed with the good service and friendliness of the flight attendants, despite the challenges the variety of menu selections gave them.
It was a good thing that we had the time available to make the second flight! Those on the earlier flight out of Amsterdam had the gate changed three times as they proceeded through the airport. Oh well, our legs and brains needed the exercise.
Again, the staff did an excellent job informing the gang of each step from plane, to baggage claim, to customs, and out to the bus and luggage truck. Once on the bus, Edie Ciobanu gave a wonderful description of buildings and landmarks as we made our way to our hotel. Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the advance group. Once hotels were assigned, many were only too glad to find their room and attempt to catch up on sleep.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Are you receiving notice in your email?
Have you been expecting email notifying your that the blog has been updated?
I was somewhat under the impression that's what would happen, but apparently it's not.
If you want to receive such notice, email me at samvjr -at - gmail - dot - com and I'll tell you how.
Or, if you have a Gmail or Google account, you can go to the email list home page and sign up. Go to http://groups.google.com/group/oamcromania and click the link "Join this group" link in the right-hand column.
Arrived in Bucharest
Received Mon, Apr 13, 2009 at 12:55 PM Pacific Time
From Rick Pummel, OAMC singer, 2nd Tenor
Sent from Bucharest
We have all now safely arrived at the Rin Grand Hotel in Bucharest. Those who arrived today came in four separate groups this afternoon. All went well on the trip, except that all of Gerard McLane’s checked luggage was lost by the airline! Please pray for its return. Dave Wyman was missing one of his checked bags as well, but it turned out that it somehow arrived with one of the earlier groups.
There were some rather droopy faces this evening (after a long day of travel), but all seem to be in good spirits.
Romania is definitely much different than America. At this point, most of the group has had rather little interaction with the people.
The countryside around Bucharest is one thing so far that stands out in my mind as markedly different from home. I thought it was odd to see totally unimproved grounds around most of even the fancy buildings. Not just grounds with no lawn but grounds that look like the construction crew just drove away and left the pits and bumps and all, with just sidewalks around the buildings. It is certainly not this way everywhere here, but I guess the poor condition of the road we drove in on, combined with all the trash along the roadway and the lack of groomed areas around buildings left an impression on me.
A group of us went directly from the airport to the seminary for supper. It is a very nice facility, the food was good and, of course, the people were very kind.
As I understand it, we will be spending the next couple of days rehearsing at the seminary before heading off on tour around the country.
We all thank you for your prayers!
Ministry or Music?
Received Sun, Apr 12, 2009 at 11:44 PM Pacific Time
By John Korb, OAMC member, bass singer
Sent from Amsterdam
Promptly at 8 a.m. on Easter Sunday, some 65 OAMC singers, staff and spouses descended on Sunnyside SDA Church to prepare for the flight to Romania. Bags were weighed and supplies were stuffed into additional pieces of luggage. Everyone loaded into the Portland Adventist Elementary School and Portland Adventist Academy buses. PACS supplied a truck to deliver all the luggage. Thanks to Glenn Heagy, and Larry and Lori Ramey, the check-in process at the airport was quick and uneventful.
I overheard one of the guys say that he didn’t want anyone to think he was very stressed about the whole process, but he could confirm that there were no urinals in the women’s restroom!
We proceeded to the boarding gate where we had time for a short devotional, prayer and one verse of “Power in the Blood.” The singing has begun.
The plane backed away from the gate and after a 10-minute delay on the runway, we were off to Romania.
So why are we on this mission? Prior to leaving we had a list of reasons: to help establish a men’s chorus in Romania, to help build up the body of believers in our church, to video our presentations for broadcast on the Romanian Church’s television ministry channels.
But on the plane I’m beginning to sense this mission is getting personal. One singer shared that he has been out of work for a year. He is looking for God to give him some personal direction, a way to leave the disappointments and hurts behind, to have a new beginning.
Others are sensing that God has not fully revealed the wonderful plans he has for this mission. There is anticipation, wondering what blessings He will bring. There have been prayers for a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Some of the guys have said they plan to listen. They want to hear the stories of the 100-plus Romanian singers, how they came to participate in the mission. On the list of Romanian singers they have listed their occupations as pastor, evangelist, auto repair, house painter, among many others. Interesting … guys just like us.
Lou Wildman, OAMC conductor, has said many times that OAMC is not about the music – it’s about ministry. There is no doubt there will be beautiful music. We look forward to seeing the fullness of God’s plan for this mission.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Large group departs 12:17 pm
Received this note via email from Glen Heagy, our "in-house travel consultant" of sorts.
1:02 PM
Northwest flight 92 departed the gate in Portland at 12:17PM and took off a few minutes ago. Everything went fine even though there were a few things that happened that were unforeseen. I send some pictures later today.
Thx,
Glen
Glen has been one of the people whom God has sent our way to help make things go more smoothly than they likely would have without him.
Glen has spent hours working behind the scenes with the Northwest Airlines folks to make arrangements for getting through customs smoothly and prepping members for international travel.
This last week the email wires were burning up with multiple messages from Glen with info for our international travelers.
Thank you, Glen, for all your hours and hours of hard work.
I'll post here when we have pictures in hand to view online.
A Suzuki Samurai and the Mission to Romania
|
Suzuki Samurai 'hopped up' for the trails |
What does a Suzuki Samurai 4-wheeler have to do with OAMC and the Mission to Romania?
Just ask Leland Wilson. “There will be other Samurais, but there’s only one Romanian Mission,” he said, as he sold his Suzuki Samurai he had ‘hopped up’ for fun on the trails.
Taking 100 singers, family members and musicians on such a trip as this is quite an undertaking, as you can imagine, not just in planning and logistics, but in finding the funding to make it all happen. Members were told to plan on a cost of about $3,000 each for airfare and costs while in Romania.
Of course, not everyone has that kind of money just lying around waiting for a Mission to Romania. From a human perspective the task to raise that kind of money was daunting if not overwhelming for many.
But then, as believers we have the opportunity to invite God into the Mission. After all, it’s for His glory, not ours, that we undertake such a task.
Members were charged with raising as much of their own support as possible. They got busy, and they got creative. And the Lord blessed.
Ron Tilley and Leland Wilson acquired the nickname “Johnny Appleseeds” when they led in selling over 30,000 pounds of apples to raise money for the Romania Mission. (And there’s talk of apple sales becoming a regular fall activity to support the ministry of OAMC.)
Dana Lester sold his “prized” motorcycle to help fund his participation in the Romania Mission.
“I sent more than 60 letters to friends and family members. I was overwhelmed by their generous response. I was able to help three other singers participate in the Romania Mission. God made it happen.” – Richard Martin
Ian Edgerton, a 20-something singing with OAMC for the first time this year, became really excited about the Mission, wrote numerous letters, and he, too, was able to help two to three other singers as well from the responses he received.
Rick & Estee Pummel with Ron and Rhonda Tilley held a sacred music concert in College Place featuring Rick, a familiar face and singer for Blue Mountain Television in the Walla Walla Valley.
Other organized efforts supported by fundraising professionals John Korb and Sam Vigil Jr. raised thousands of dollars from a few key supporters. Each time John and Sam met to make plans, and when they met with a small committee, they opened with prayer, seeking God’s guidance, and that doors would be opened.
OAMC has stepped out on faith from the very beginning. With that faith has come a lot of hard work by many, both here in and in Romania.
While the dates we set for this Mission to take place is now upon us, we still have expenses that need to be met.
In addition to members finding support for their participation, we have the expenses of renting performance halls and hiring Romanian professional musicians.
We invite you to partner with us in this Mission to Romania. You can join us through prayer as well as financial support.
For more information, please view this PDF of a presentation we showed at our concert on April 4.
In addition, please visit our website at www.oamc.org/support.asp
Why this Mission to Romania? Why OAMC?
Perhaps you’ve stumbled across this blog, a friend invited you to view it, or you haven’t visited the OAMC website (www.oamc.org) for some time, and you’re wondering, why are these guys going to Romania?
I’m glad you asked. From the website (www.oamc.org/romania.asp), here are the reasons we feel called to this Mission to Romania:
The purpose of the Romania Mission is to:
1. Help build up the church in Romania; provide encouragement to our brothers and sisters.
2. Promote and support a major Adventist men's chorus in the country. The church in Romania has a long tradition of choirs and music festivals. And now, Alin Apostol (a former OAMC singer, now pastoring in Romania), has started what he calls the "Romanian chapter" of the Oregon Adventist Men's Chorus. We have the opportunity to support them in growing a powerful men's ministry.
3. Sing with our Romanian brothers in Christ, bringing together a grand international men's chorus. As we travel through the country, we will be joined by Romanian singers. By the time we arrive in Bucharest for our Finale Concert, over 100 Romanian men will sing with us.
4. Provide programming material to the Romanian Adventist media organization. They plan to broadcast these programs through their nationwide network of radio and television stations beginning with the Romanian "Passover" (Orthodox Easter).
5. Follow in the spirit of Paul the apostle, who was invited to "Come over to Macedonia and help us." While Romania is not Macedonia, the invitation to serve is from the same God.
See more at www.oamc.org/romania.asp
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