Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27
April, 2020
Happy Easter!
As we celebrate Easter in a different way this year, we are still focusing on the fact that Jesus is alive. He conquered sin and death for all of us. He is our hope and salvation. With Jesus, we will all go through this time and be victors at the end.
We wanted to give you an update on what is going on in Romania. The government has issued a stay at home policy until May 15. Therefore, the schools will be closed at least until then. The Minister of Education is working on plans so everyone can finish this school year. People are allowed to leave their homes only if they have a paper stating where they are going and their purpose. The police and army have been out checking on people. A limited amount of people are allowed in the stores and banks at one time. So, Ruben is the only one who goes out and gets things that are needed. There are cases of the virus in Lugoj, which is the town where we do our shopping, banking and etc. But, there are no cases in our village of Jdioara.
At Christmas time, we were blessed with more food than we have ever received before. We thought that it was going to take months for us to eat everything. But this was the perfect year for it to come. During this time when access to food and things is limited, we have an abundance at the orphanage. God knew ahead of time and took great care of us. We have been able to give food to our widows and some people in our village. We also got a shipment from Lidl with extra food and puzzles and games and things. We made up bags for our food bank people who are struggling now. The puzzles and games kept our kids and teenagers busy for several days It is so neat to watch how God provides.
We delivered firewood to several of our widows this month. They were thankful for it. We want to thank the church who provided the money for us to do this. You are a blessing. Our farm is looking good now that the teenagers have been off of school for so long. They go each morning with Dani, Ruben's brother, and Ruben to clean branches and things and to fix the fences. They have a great appetite for lunch afterwards. Everyone also does about one hour of school work a day. Most of the teachers have sent assignments for them to do. They play a lot of soccer and basketball, too. They seem to always find things to do. It is good to see them all playing together.
We had plans for Ruben, Bianca and Marta to come and visit Karen in America but unfortunately those were canceled. We will be celebrating Easter separately and even on different weekends as the Romanian Easter is a week later. Karen is getting stronger each day. Please pray for all of us as this has been a trying time being separated for so long.
Thank you so much for all of you who faithfully support our ministry through financial gifts and prayers. They keep the work going in Romania. We pray God's protection over all of you during this time and always. God is on the throne and in control.
With our love,
Ruben, Karen and Bianca
Beraca Foundation, P.O. Box 674, Jacksonville, IL 62651; karenpopet@gmail.com