Pastoral Care – Knowing God, Knowing Self
As part of our long-standing partnership of over 25 years with Zionsville Presbyterian Church (ZPC), and Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, IN, between April 7-10, we had the joy of hosting the 2025 Mission Conference at Alpiniș – an event dedicated to partners in Romania, actively involved in ministry alongside MLI and ZPC. Approximately 60 pastors, church workers, and leaders from Alexandria, Giurgiu, Fetesti, Cluj, Calarasi, Zimnicea, and Timisoara gathered for a time of equipping, fellowship, and spiritual renewal.
A Time of Equipping, Deep Reflection, and Renewed Vision
Following the theme of the conference – Pastoral Care: Knowing God and Knowing Self – we invited participants to explore the deep connection between one’s relationship with God and self-awareness, inspired by the words of John Calvin:
“Without knowledge of self, there is no knowledge of God… and without knowledge of God, there is no knowledge of self…”
In this context, Lisa Prince introduced the Enneagram, a tool for self-knowledge and personal assessment, giving leaders a fresh perspective on their own identity and that of those they serve. Rev. Stan Johnson and Rev. Jerry Deck led sessions focusing on the biblical truth that man is created in God’s image.
“Even though we had talked about it before, I was so touched, made aware, and challenged by the need to take time to listen to the Lord’s voice. I leave thankful, humbled, and eager for that time of listening.” — Octavian Ivanica, Alexandria
“Stan Johnson challenged us to study more deeply the God of creation, Jerry encouraged us to place the challenges of ministry in God’s hands, and Lisa invited us into a level of self-discovery like never before. Once again, the conference at Alpinis pleasantly surprised us. Beyond the warmth of the hospitality and care we received, the atmosphere, times of worship, and biblical teachings made these days truly precious. We wholeheartedly thank all those who gave, served, and invited us to be part of this blessing.” — Adrian & Florica Simion, Zimnicea
“The ministry of the US team encouraged and deeply strengthened us, giving us a clearer awareness of the Lord’s love and of our identity in Him. It was a time of refocusing on what truly matters in our relationship with God.” — Hardi & Beti Kubassek, Open Doors, Medgidia
Regional Conference
As part of the MLI Leadership Development program, on April 4-6, just before the conference at Alpinis, Rev. Stan Johnson led a regional conference for youth and ministry teams in Alexandria. This meeting provided a focused setting for training, encouragement, and connection among local workers.
Gratitude and Blessing
Thanks to technology, we were able to celebrate two special moments together: the friendship and service of David and Joan Gall in the Romania partnership since 1996 and the launch of the book “The Weaver’s Gentle Hand”, in which Dave shares his story of life and ministry. We also had the opportunity to thank Romanian churches who, in partnership with ZPC, contributed to the Uganda mission in September 2024 and to hear from Rev. Dickens from Uganda in an online message.
The atmosphere at Alpinis greatly enhanced our connection, drawing us closer to God and one another, we concluded our time around the Lord’s Table. We are deeply grateful to everyone who made this time possible – the MLI team, our partners at ZPC, and all who faithfully serve behind the scenes.
