Moldova

Moldova is located in eastern Europe, to the northeast of Romania. It is slightly smaller than the state of Maryland and is divided into 32 districts, 3 municipalities (Chisinau, Balti and Bender) and two semi-autonomous regions (Gagauzia and Transnistria). The population is now approximately 2.4 million people. However, the population continues to decline, as many have left Moldova to work abroad, often in Europe or Russia, and many do so without secure legal status.

The Soviet-era imprint remains stronger in Moldova than in Romania, because Moldova was part of the Soviet Union until 1991. The needs in Moldova are serious as the economy is very poor. Alcohol abuse and family hardship remain serious concerns in many communities. The primary occupation is agriculture. The income for approximately half those involved in agriculture is below the poverty line in this educated but poor country (as determined by the World Bank).

Reliable employment and income remain difficult in many rural areas. Moldova remains one of Europe’s most economically vulnerable countries, with many rural families still facing serious need.

The religion of the majority of Moldova (over 70%) is Eastern Orthodox. About 1% of Moldovans claim to be protestant or evangelical Christians.

We are presently working in many villages throughout Moldova: Rascaieti, Pistruieni, Domulegni, Crucieni, Cosnita, Biliceni, Boghiceni, Orhei, Hancesti, Stefanesti, Balceana, Sculeni, Miresti, Viisoara. It is our prayer that God will help us extend the gospel and the ministry to other poor areas.

The marks of the old atheist regime are evident everywhere in this country. The Communists tried and succeeded in great part to eradicate the knowledge of God from the minds and consciousness of people. There are people who do not even have the elementary truths of the Gospel message. What we experience now is that we have open doors to preach the Gospel in almost every village we enter. There are new churches being planted as souls are added to the church and baptized on a regular and consistent basis.

People who lived in spiritual darkness and ignorance are now eager to come to light and find the truth that can save their souls. The time is ready, the fields are ripe for the harvest — it is high time to accept the calling of our Lord Jesus Christ and to labor in His vineyard!

EEO has one full-time worker in the Republic of Moldova and a second worker who directs a portion of his efforts to serving in Moldova.