A Lighthouse between the Mosque Minarets

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Hope Center in Albania

PÄIVI RANTA, Director of Mission Possible in Finland

Mission Possible's activity center in Bathore, a suburb of the Albanian capital Tirana, is like a lighthouse in the center of the Muslim community. Most of the residents – including the women, children, and teens who participate in Hope Center's activities – are from Muslim families. 

The name "Hope Center" was given by the women who go there. "Every time we visit, we return home with a heart full of hope!" they say.

"Why do you care?" 

In addition to organized activities at the center, our team also distributes help to needy families. The door to sharing the gospel has often been opened by ones asking, "Why do you want to help us?" We get to tell them about the One who helps us and invite them to learn more at Hope Center.

"We pray."

Gjergji Como and his wife Marinela lead Mission Possible's work in Albania. "Our team starts each day by praying," says Gjergji.

"Over the years, we have seen miracles and healings, and many people have come to faith. On the other hand, our work has also faced opposition and threats. But we will keep working as long as God continues to have us here.

"We know that it is by His grace that we have people who pray and give to this work. God has blessed all the support that has been offered to this country, and it is bearing fruit. Thank you, and please continue to pray for us and the residents of Bathore!"

A Day at Hope Center

We arrived at the center well before the meeting began so we'd have time to prepare the food and pray together. Once the women arrived, we noted there were about 20 of all ages.

Cordial Mimoza, the coordinator of the women's work in Albania, led the meeting, which consisted of songs, Bible teaching, and testimonies. I, too, got to share a part of my own life story and what faith in Jesus means to me. The women were clearly clinging to the words of the messages, and many were moved to tears. We closed by praying for all in attendance.

Later in the day, there was a youth gathering. Around 30 children came, many straight from school. Together, we listened to a Bible lesson, sang, danced, and played. We had so much fun! From what we observed, this is a really special place for all who attend. The love between the team members and the children was evident.

Love Led Lea to Jesus

The children's group was led by Lea (21), who radiates joy and life. She is a university student and our part-time worker. On Tuesdays she runs a Bible club for children. It was wonderful to see the relationships she has fostered with those who attend. 

"Whether I'm here, on the street, or anywhere else, the children run to hug me. I love them! Hope Center, the children, and the MP team are like a second home and family to me," Lea proclaimed.

"When I was 12, I started using Hope Center's library. I didn't know about any of the other activities yet. After I had been there for a year, I was asked if I wanted to go to camp. Of course I did, and it was only five minutes from my home!

"Camp was awesome! Gjergji, Marinela, and the others loved me so much! I started going to Hope Center every day after school to see them, participate in the fun activities, and get to know Jesus. My little brother went with me, too.

"I come from a Muslim family, like most people from here. My family is dear to me. My parents know that I go to Hope Center, but they don't know about my faith in Jesus. My brother hasn't told them either because he fears for me. I'm not allowed to keep a Bible at home, so I read it on my phone. When I go to church I tell my parents I am going to spend time with friends. I love Jesus very much and I know He is with me. Please pray for me to have the courage to tell my parents about my faith."