Talmaciu, Romania
The History of Golgota Bible School

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(CONTINUED)... Over the years we have seen God's hand at work. The first generation did a two year course but at the end of that course we realized it wasn't long enough so we changed it into a three year course. We first started with a class that was coming in every now and then, but we soon realized that many of our students were farmers coming from rural communities. They were busy working the fields during the spring and summer months and were unable to come to school. Therefore, we decided to hold the teaching sessions in the winter when work was not being done in the fields.

A real highlight in the work was during the winter of 1997/1998. We had 27 leaders and pastors from the underground church in Romanian Moldova come to the school. Many of these men are still coming today to attend the winter training sessions. Over the years we have had more than 600 students from all over the country. About 60% of them are now involved in the ministry, as elders, youth leaders and Sunday School teachers. Some are in full time ministry as evangelists and church planters. It would be difficult to tell you the number of churches they are involved in but they are all over the country.

As you probably well know, Romania’s economy has not been very strong since the fall of Communism in 1989. Corruption in the government and in the medical system is very prevalent. Because of this at least 8 million Romanians have gone abroad looking for work, a better salary and a better lifestyle. Sadly, the Christians are not excluded from this exodus. Even some of our former students (about 200) have left the country and gone to Italy, Spain, Greece, Belgium and England in search of work. However, we are still able to keep in touch by phone and email. They often ask for the commentaries that we print at the school from time. Some have been able to start churches with Romanians who live and work where they are.

In January, 2007, Romania became a member of the European Union (EU). Things are beginning to change in Romania. Already regulations are being imposed on the Golgotha Bible School.



The kitchen facilities have to be brought up to the new standard.



Taxes are rising along with prices. The Golgotha Bible School, started with the vision of one man and has continued, by the grace of God, until this day. It is now entering into a new era of uncertainty. We are not sure what the EU will mean for the school and evangelical Christianity in Romania. But at the moment we are confident that we should continue as in the past.So, we continue to cherish the prayers and gifts of God’s people wherever you are.
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