Pastor Vlodia

I had the joy and privilege of living and working with Pastor Vlodia in the Moldovan village of Crasnoarmascoe. His two daughters, son and wife were all extremely welcoming. They put out their best for me and showed me around their village with pride. I enjoyed spending my days with them as we planned summer camp for the local youth. We rode horses, picked beans off the vine and played soccer. Pastor Vlodia insisted that I sing some worship songs in English at the Wednesday night church service, despite my urgings that I am a poor singer.

He was proud to introduce me to his parish. He showed me the new church they were building, and the shed they were creating for children's church and a feeding program for those in need in the area. These past two years he has been working with missionary Andy Raatz and they were about to embark on a community transformation and development project.

A few days ago Andy called and Vlodia's wife answered in tears. There was an accident as Vlodia was fixing his well. He died.

Pastor Vlodia, I have no doubt, is in heaven with Jesus. Do not mourn for him, he is in a far better place. But mourn for his widow, for his three children and grandchild. Mourn for his church and the community of Crasnoarmascoe, who lost a great man of faith and action. And mourn for Moldova- for having one less man of God to bring hope to its people. Pray for them and pray for Moldova, that God would raise up workers to take over where Pastor Vlodia left off.