Worthy are those ministers and ministries that through the Lord’s gracious enablement preserve enduring relationships in ministry.
Throughout our continued coming to maturity in Italy, not to mention numerous transitions, including the most recent, and perhaps most significant, move to Rome, the ITA is learning to be forever more appreciative of this principle, the inestimable value of proven partnerships on the mission field especially.
Looking back on the month of July, we are drawn to this proverbial-like reflection on the worthiness of long-lasting spiritual friendships.
The picture included here in the newsletter speaks both illustratively and practically to the matter of having faithful friends. The men that I am gathered with are representative of the leadership of the Berean Church of Rome (two are elders and one a missionary of the church).
The Berean Church of Rome is no stranger to ITA training. Since its inception in Italy almost twenty years ago, and during its many years of ministry based in Sicily, the ITA has served shoulder to shoulder with La Chiesa Berea, pioneer church serving the saints and preaching the Gospel decades before ITA training appeared on the Italian scene.
At times, admittedly, the relationship was more distant. At others, it has thankfully been more proximate. Circumstances and convictions have often determined the measure of distance/proximity. Nonetheless, and throughout it all, a resolve has gradually developed on behalf of both (ITA and Berea) to uphold our like-minded bond.
Together we are committed to resolute biblical integrity and an unrelenting pursuit to see the church fulfill its mission in Italy. Both commitments moreover purpose to join with other existing churches of equal mind in Rome and in the rest of Italy. This so that our partnership grows in its constituency and capacity for more intentional pastoral training in-country.
Finally, and closer to home, God’s goodness has proven manifold in that ITA is not the only recipient of the fruit of a faithful relationship with Berea over the years.
My own life and family have benefitted. Berea was the local church that first sent us on our way sixteen years ago when, as newly weds, Alexandra and myself, left the church and Italy for training at TMS. We hoped at the time to return as soon as possible and re-connect to continue together where we left off… serving His kingdom in Italy.