A Spiritually Rich Movement is Thriving in Poverty-stricken Moldova

Poverty, despair, and lack of resources have been prevalent in the country of Moldova. Being listed as one of the poorest countries in Europe, Moldova has experienced serious hardships throughout the years. However, Moldova is one of the fastest developing countries for Campus Crusades for Christ, and especially for Athletes in Action.

AIA Moldova is running several major projects throughout the European continent, showcasing the true message of Jesus Christ. Currently Ghena M.*, a dynamic, faithful man of God, is leader of this developing ministry. Since its beginning in 2002, AIA Moldova has been actively hosting events and camps for athletes. They are responsible for major basketball and football camps, tournaments, and the most recent: Character in Sport, SonRise Netherlands, and Total Athlete conferences and projects held this year.

Moldova has a lot to look forward to in the future: “Three weeks ago, I and my colleagues met with the Minister of Sport. After he learned about our organization and what we can offer the world of sports, he redirected us to the Olympians Training Center (OTC). After a brief conversation with the head of OTC, we now have a verbal agreement on a long-term partnership, where AIA Moldova runs the Total Athlete seminars for all coaches, athletes and doctors of the Olympic sports in Moldova! Is it not a blessing!” Ghena exclaims. “Also, since 2010, all new AIA staff members are trained in sports ministry. In addition to this change, we have prepared a course for students and key volunteers. We call the course ‘Faith in Action.’ I think this is an incredible achievement for our ministry, as we have adapted the material for athletes, and we are those who teach the course rather than somebody from outside the ministry.”

“God has prepared for us what we cannot even imagine”

We asked Ghena about his experiences with AIA and what he has gained from working with Athletes in Action. “Being part of the sport ministry is a big responsibility, because not only do your physical area and even intellectual areas matter, it is very important how you mature as a Christian. It's obvious who you are when you perform on the sport field. People can immediately see what a person you are, because the stress is much higher than outside of sport. I believe that God has prepared for us what we cannot even imagine—1 Corinthians 2:9. So I believe that is still to come!”

By Ronald Woodland, AIA communications intern

*AIA does not publish last names of staff members.

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