Albania is a beautiful country in the Balkan area of Europe. The North is mountainous with breathtaking scenery, and the coastal and southern areas have stunning waters. The Albanian people are very proud of their heritage and will always welcome guests into their country with incredible hospitality. Albania has an interesting history. The Bible mentions early Albanian Christianity in Romans 15:19 where Apostle Paul writes ‘from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyria I have fulfilled the ministry of the Gospel of Christ’. Illyria is the word used for ancient Albania.
From 1944- 1991, Albania was under communist dictatorship and declared the world’s first atheist country. Churches and mosques were destroyed, and many religious leaders were killed. After the fall of communism, missionaries came to Albania to share the gospel. As a long-term result, Christianity is gradually rising. However, Albania still remains a Muslim majority country with many remote areas not reached by the churches. Many people do not yet know the love, hope and truth of Jesus. Evangelical Christians make up less than 1% of the population and so more workers are needed to spread the gospel across this wonderful nation.
The ministry of the team leaders in Albania is The Way Ministry with a mission statement to proclaim Jesus as the way, the truth and the life John 14:6 in towns and remote villages of Albania, through sharing the gospel and living out His goodness in everyday actions, serving across the generations. We put this statement into action through 3 key focuses: Evangelism and discipleship, therapy services and youth work, including the use of sports.
As well as serving alongside ‘The Way’, there are many opportunities for Goers to partner with local churches and other organizations. These ministries may include: Teaching English, Children’s ministry, Church planting, Men’s ministry, Women’s ministry, sport’s ministry, medical services i.e. nursing, midwifery, ministry for visually impaired.
Essential for an occupational therapy ministry would be qualification in one of the Allied Health Professions i.e. OT, physio, SALT, Dietetics; or related qualifications such a sports science, exercise science, social work.
As a new placement field, this role would be perfect for someone who has ‘bigger picture’ thinking and wants to be involved in the early stages of developing a ministry and being part of a growing team. It is essential that the Goer can manage their own time and be proactive in suggesting new ways of reaching the unreached, using their God given gifts.
Work experience with youth and older children- ages 12-18
Evangelism experience including outreach and feeling confident sharing the gospel
Skills in using social media, videography or photography would be a bonus as an additional interest to help with promotion of events
Experience of cross culture working
Most importantly over all the above is someone with a heart for Jesus who has a desire to learn, a passion for people, good communication skills and demonstrates initiative.
Mental Health Counseling
Pilgrim Hospitality Worker
