**Encounter 360 Newsletter - September Edition**
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**Exciting Days Ahead in Cluj-Napoca, Romania!
Dear Friends and Supporters,
We’re writing to you with full hearts as we reflect on what God is doing in our ministry as we prepare our return to Cluj-Napoca, Romania. This city, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has been an incredible place to serve, and we feel so blessed to be part of what God is doing here. From ministering to families and children to working with local churches, we’re seeing the seeds of faith take root, and we couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.
**A Growing Mission: How God is Moving!**
Our time in Cluj thus far, has been filled with so many stories of hope and transformation. We’ve been able to connect with local families, share the love of Christ, and build lasting relationships. One of the highlights has been working with youth in the city—many of whom are searching for meaning and hope in a fast-changing world. We’ve been able to host and participate in Women’s meetings, and outreach events that have opened doors for the Gospel to be shared.
God’s hand is truly at work in Cluj-Napoca, and we believe that “the best is yet to come!”
**Preparing for What’s Next: Exciting Challenges**
With so much growth and opportunity, we’re also facing some exciting challenges as we continue to serve in this beautiful city. We want to be as effective as possible, both in our ministry and in the practical, everyday parts of life. We’ve recently encountered some needs that will allow us to stay fully engaged in the work here, and we’re trusting that God will provide just what we need.
We wanted to share these with you in the hopes that you might pray with us as we trust God to supply these needs. We’re confident that with your prayers and support, these practical challenges will become opportunities for God’s provision!
**Our Current Needs: Opportunities to Partner**
Many of you have asked how you could help. There are a few areas where we could use some immediate support:
**Mandatory Government Health Insurance**: $1,200
This is essential for us to stay compliant and receive proper medical care while living in Romania.
**Visa for Gabriel**: $750
In order for Gabriel to continue serving here, he needs to renew his visa so that he can remain with us in Cluj. This includes all the Notary and Government fees associated with acquiring a new visa.
**Language School for Our Family**: $600
Learning the Romanian language is key to deepening our relationships with locals and more effectively sharing the Gospel. We believe that this is imperative to reaching the Romanian people
**Kids Homeschool Curriculum**: $550
Homeschooling is such a blessing for our kids, but we need to purchase new materials and curriculum for the upcoming school year. This also covers their weekly meeting and activities with other homeschool children in their homeschool group
**Storage Fees**: $3,600
We have some essential items in storage from our previous move, but there’s a cost to keeping them safely stored. This will cover the entire year.
**New Tires**: $500
We need to purchase a new set of winter tires for our van. Due to the construction on the road where we live and with the winter season coming on we need a new set of winter tires to be compliant with Romanian law.
Beyond these primary needs, there are also a few things that would greatly enhance our everyday living situation and allow us to focus fully on our mission:
**Bed and Mattresses for Micah**: $800
Our growing boy needs a comfortable place to sleep after long days of learning and ministering to the children of Romania!
**Mattress for Shane and Kristina**: $400
After months on a worn-out mattress, it’s time for something more supportive so we can wake up ready to serve.
**Vacuum**: $200
Something simple like a vacuum would make daily activities so much easier for our family.
**Multi-Cooker**: $200
This versatile tool would save so much time in meal prep, helping us balance family life and ministry.
**Small Desk for Kids School**: $75
A small school desk would be extremely helpful for our children’s school work.
**Office Desk for Big Kids**: $200
This desk is for the 2 older boys for their bedroom to aid in their school work and other projects as well.
**Air Conditioner**: $800.00
Our apartment does not have air conditioning. It would be a blessing to have this unit.
**Living Room Chair**: $300
A sofa type chair for our family room.
**Sofa**: $600
A sofa for our family room.
If you would like to help us in purchasing these items you can do so by clicking on the “TO GIVE” button at the bottom of the page. Please know that every gift is appreciated and no amount is to small or insignificant. If you would like your donation to go to a specific item, please memo it as such and your gift will be used for that purchase….
**How You Can Join Us**
We know these needs might seem daunting, but we’ve seen time and time again how God uses His people to provide in ways we never expected. If you feel led to partner with us financially, any amount—big or small—would be an incredible blessing to our family and the ministry here.
Whether it’s a one-time gift or ongoing monthly support, your generosity will enable us to continue building relationships, sharing the Gospel, and serving the people of Cluj-Napoca effectively. Every gift is a step forward in the work God is doing here!
**Final Thoughts: The Journey Ahead**
We are filled with anticipation for what God has in store for us in the coming months. Your prayers, support, and encouragement mean the world to us, and we are deeply grateful for each one of you. As we continue to press forward in this mission, we invite you to stand with us and be part of the incredible things God is doing in Romania.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. Together, we can make a lasting impact for the Kingdom in Cluj-Napoca!
With much love and gratitude,
Shane, Kristina, Gabriel, Micah, Karrigan & Caleb
"Called to Romania, Serving the Nations"
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**P.S.** We’d love to chat more about our needs and how you can get involved. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss how your partnership can make a difference!
