Blaga Vest

On Friday evening, Saturday and Sunday afternoon, we taught our basic leadership course to the leaders of Blaga Vest Church. Considering all they have done in the last few years, we were humbled by the fact that they asked us to do it. Clearly, they are a very well led church already. We hope that we were able to contribute just a little to their effectiveness.

Few churches would have the vision or the courage to do what they have done. I will share just a few examples, and remember, this is all been done in a post-communist nation that has only been free for about 20 years or so. Prior to that, the churches were underground churches.

A few years ago, they were able to buy a plot of land for a church. They had little money and loans were not available. So, they got the idea of building a condominium on part of the land, selling the units and using the profits to fund the construction of their church. They got mostly volunteers to plan the project and obtain the permits. Then, on the basis of the plans, they pre-sold the units, built them and used the profits to build their church. Yes, they have had some help; but not much. Truly a visionary and courageous undertaking and a wonderful witness to the community.

Every Sunday service is streamed live on the internet. They have "attendees" in many countries; Bulgarians living abroad. They have a worship team comprised of some of the most outstanding musicians in the country. Most years, they put on a Christmas production in a large hall and invite the citizens of Sofia. It is their witness to the community. I could go on, but I think you get the picture; this is a church and a group of people that we greatly respect and admire and we are so thankful to be partnered with them!!

And now, off to Plovdiv with our dear friend, Dr. Marina Dimitrova (a fellow Regent graduate) to teach in her bible schools.