January 19, 2005

Mission to Moldova

Can I take a minute to brag about my church?

Last week in the Tennessean there was an article about some of our church's missions to Moldova (Rolling Hills Community Church in Franklin). This mission is headed up by one of the most kindest, self-sacrificing people I know...Gretchen Swift. Talk about someone who knows what missions are about...she knows:

For the last two years, Gretchen Swift, a 31-year-old federal attorney, has spent her free time in the small republic of Moldova, the poorest nation in Europe and a neighbor to Romania.

The 24-hour haul toward the east is a mission of love to work with hundreds of orphans who delight in the simplest of gifts: a pair of black socks, warm hats, bright crayons, even a gentle hold of the hand.

It's all awe-inspiring to Swift, who has come to love these children more than she ever dreamed possible. And, the one who has come with aid has gotten a lot back, too.

''It is amazing when you are with people who seemingly need so much but have so much to give, too,'' Swift said. ''It helps me understand God more and it helps me understand the world.''

Swift is a member of the Rolling Hills Community Church, a 2-year-old congregation that meets in a Brentwood cinema. The church has taken on the plight of the orphans, the majority of whom end up in jail or as prostitutes once they reach legal age and leave the compounds that have housed them.

Listen...you need to read the entire article because what I've pasted above doesn't scratch the tip of this story.

I just have to say that going to church isn't just about going to feel good about yourself or hanging out with friends or building altars to God...it's a lot more than that. Yes...you have to focus on growing yourself spiritually, but at the same time, you need to focus outward and help those in need.

It's my belief that a big part of a church's mission to seek out and help the poor, the downtrodden, the orphans and the widows. It doesn't matter if it's around the world or even down the street. It's a big part of a church's mission that many churches miss out on...and sometimes downright ignore. Perhaps they think that it should be the government's job? Guess what...it's not! (Yes...I've written about this before).

Every year our church sends a large group of people over to Moldova to serve in the same places that the Tennessean article talks about. I've been considering doing it this year. If things work out, I will.
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Update - Monday, July 11, 2005:

For those who are looking for the Moldova blog, you can find that here: http://rollinghills-moldova.blogspot.com/

Comments:

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If you go, be sure to photoblog it!

Posted by: Bill Hobbs at January 19, 2005 09:44 AM

I will be heading to Los Mochis, Mexico next month to build a church in the slums. If you think about it, pray for our team's safety. There really is no describing how rewarding it is to step outside your comfort zone to reach out to others in need.

Posted by: Doesn't Matter at January 19, 2005 10:28 AM