Winter is the optimum time for evangelistic meetings in Romania. Though the country's winters are extremely cold, and with the rule of communism a not-to-distant memory, visiting American preachers definitely draw crowds. And the Word of God, preached by Spirit-filled believers, warms souls and ignites hope.

Twenty-nine evangelists — five pastors and 24 lay people — preached the three angels’ messages in cities, towns and villages from Feb. 20 through March 7. From ages 19 to 79, male and female, students, working adults and retirees responded to the gospel commission to "Go ye therefore and teach all nations" (Matt. 28:19). Nine support team members assisted with health talks, music, children’s programs and technical help.

Part of the Carolina Conference-sponsored Global Evangelism ministry, Central members joined another 87 volunteer evangelists from the Northern California Conference, Germany and Spain holding simultaneous meetings throughout Romania.

This unique ministry is designed to provide an opportunity for pastors and lay members to experience the thrill of a dramatic encounter with the Holy Spirit through public evangelism. Global Evangelism provides all the sermon and graphic materials, on-site training and daily mentoring.

"When you commit to doing God’s will, He will take you on a ride which can only be described as awesomely blessed," says evangelist Darlene O’Neil about her experience. "It can take your breath away with the wonder of it."

Challenges

Miraculous experiences began before the volunteers left: getting three weeks off, raising the funds and learning PowerPoint on newly acquired notebook computers. Calvin Uren, a cardiac nurse, needed a "good" suit but could not justify spending "big bucks." At the Santa Cruz Goodwill, he found a one that fit perfectly for $20. The retail price tag was still attached — $749.

Entrenched in an Orthodox religion, Romanians find change difficult. One young woman, stirred by the Bible truths, was beaten by her father for attending the meetings. Attendees were reluctant to write their names on decision cards — a holdover from the former Communist regime.

With temperatures from single digits to the low 20s and at least one blizzard, travel was difficult. Roads were either ice-packed or eight inches deep in mud. Traveling by foot, horse, and buggies were common village transportation. City dwellers walked, took a bus or an occasional car.

In the village where retired dentist Peter Yoshida preached, drinking water was drawn from a well and outdoor toilets provided a frosty winter experience.

"I learned that Jesus is in control, and that all I have to do is to trust in Him," says Jeff Squires. Because it was a first-time experience for both Squires and his Romanian translator, some nights were discouraging. "I wondered if the topic was getting through. But on those nights, someone would always tell me that the points were clear and it was a good message."

Experiencing the Holy Spirit

Investment advisor Rod Chase had to meet with the eight church elders each evening to "go over the things they didn’t like" or that "they don’t do." Because of Chase’s inexperience, local leaders’ confidence was so low that the campaign hadn’t been advertized until opening night. But by the fifth meeting, visitors were increasing and the elders gave him permission to "keep doing what you’re doing." Attendance grew from 200 to 600 with more than 200 making their decisions for baptism.

"I never thought the Lord would use me like He did," says Chase. "The presence of the Holy Spirit was so thick, I could feel the wind!"

When asked to visit a sick church member, he gladly agreed. Bedridden for months, her heart’s desire was for her non-Adventist husband to hear the message. Impressed to have her stand in a circle, Chase led out in a prayer for healing. That evening the restored wife, accompanied by her husband, came to church. Her husband made his decision to be baptized on the last night.

Casey Coelho remembers feeling the power of God speaking through her. "Many nights I didn’t have the energy to speak, and as soon as I stood up, the Holy spirit would take over and the results were amazing." Her church, which seated 50, quickly filled to 106 attendees.

The dramatic growth in attendance in all of the meetings was a measurable evidence of God’s saving power.

"The most amazing thing was the success and enthusiasm of our lay speakers. They quickly overcame fear. They have returned with clear evidence that they can be used to publicly present our message. It has been wonderful to witness their joy," says Dale Leamon, conference associate evangelism director.

"The best thing I’ve ever done in my life," is the unanimous response from the volunteer evangelists. They are returning with a longing for heaven. "We made a covenant to meet again near the Tree of Life in the new kingdom," says Kenneth Sheldon about his Romanian brothers and sisters.

Because many are returning with a passion for reaching lost souls, several are already planning public outreaches at home. Says Dean Hamilton, "I see that God calls us to serve, and He can use my feeble efforts to bring others to Him."