Missions - Summer 2024

SHORT-TERM MISSIONS TRIP TO GREECE ~ Denise Peters & Rebecca Miller

Thank you for allowing us a moment to share a small glimpse into our experiences in Greece this past March. We have so many thoughts and reflections of our time, but the resounding take-away was what an absolute privilege it was to serve in Greece with a remarkable group of individuals that God so quickly put together as a team. Looking back, we were able to see God’s handiwork through it all. Everyone on our team brought unique talents to serve the missionaries and their families.

On our first night at the Bible Center, we were greeted by such warm and friendly families. There was no better way to settle into camp than a time of worship and praise, as well as icebreaker games. The children were just bursting with energy and excitement about the activities that we had planned for them over the next few days. For many of the kids (their parents shared) had been looking forward to this time as though it were Christmas!

Meals were served family style which was a great way to get to know someone new at your table. After eating, our team was able to bless everyone by doing the dishes. This was one of the many small, tangible ways that we were able to serve the missionaries allowing for a much-needed break for those attending the conference. Our main calling was to lead the children with a Vacation Bible School while the parents were in session. Each morning ran much like Camp Treasure Island with the children rotating through various games, Bible lessons, crafts and worship. God was definitely preparing all of our hearts to be together as we couldn’t believe how quickly we bonded with the kids, and became a part of their close circle.

It was inspiring for us to get to know the missionaries there who live and work in countries so vastly different from our own. They serve the people of the Balkan Region in places like Kosovo, Albania and Bulgaria. Pioneers (their mission organization) mobilizes teams to glorify God among unreached peoples by initiating church planting movements in partnership with local churches. Consistent with the core values of Pioneers, they value people and deeply understand that each person bears the image of God. They do not go to change a person’s culture, but endeavor to cultivate an atmosphere of mutual acceptance and respect in the relationships that they build. Many of them bring medical help, education and employment along with the gospel to this majority Muslim population.

Aside from learning and serving, we were blessed with an incredible opportunity to see and experience the beautiful country of Greece. One particular missionary, Anton Berks, who lives and serves in Greece was someone we came to know. Anton fiercely loves the Lord and all His people, and he graciously showed us some of what his country has to offer during our brief visit. Although only living in Greece for a short time, Anton quickly became immersed in Greek culture and history. He was our guide as we traveled and explored places from Athens to Thessalonica, the Aegean Sea (where Paul and Silas sailed) and back to Athens again. We toured many picturesque small towns and beautiful countryside along the coastline, as well as seeing the bustling metropolises and sites of the larger cities. We explored the Acropolis and its many temples. We walked through ancient tombs of past royalty and across battlegrounds from wars fought centuries ago. We enjoyed the local foods like lamb, saganaki (their version of fried cheese), honey sweets, and of course olives.

We deeply appreciated the prayers and support for this trip from our friends and fellow-believers at Springton Lake Church. Thank you! We are truly grateful that our desire as a church is to keep our hearts turned toward loving others. God calls each of us, whether right here in our own backyards, or a place farther away, to serve without reservation, and to help others know that they are loved by the Lord and belong in His great kingdom for all eternity. In closing, may we challenge each of you to ask – “Where is God using me today, and where will He send me tomorrow to serve Him?” -- Like Denise, you may just be called to get your first passport stamp!

“Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel!” (Mark 16:15)

in Christ,

Denise Peters & Rebecca Miller