For 3 1/2 days (Nov 26th-Nov 29th) approximately 30 youth leaders from across Bulgaria participated in the Youth Leadership Training Conference, which was held in the capital, Sofia. Each person attending had been hand-picked by the national youth directors, Traycho and Ina, who are the founding directors of New Wave – the youth movement for the Pentecostal churches of Bulgaria. It was exciting and refreshing to pour into these hungry leaders, who are in the frontlines of reaching Bulgaria’s youth.

Topics covered and discussed included leadership challenges faced by youth leader’s, conflict resolution, expanding our visions and growing as a leader. Time was also spent talking and praying with the youth leaders on some of their personal struggles. At each evening meeting, the delegates worshipped together, accompanied by upbeat Bulgarian music. Encouragement was one of the underlying themes, with God calling the Bulgarian leaders to take steps of faith and risks for the Kingdom.

At NLI we want to give our partners an opportunity to sow into the lives of leaders from other nations. Because of the unique connection that Traycho and Ina have developed with the Pentecostal denomination in Albania, opportunity was given for delegates to contribute towards an offering to be used in Albania to facilitate training emerging and youth leaders this spring. Seeing the youth leaders of Bulgaria give generously to bless their neighbors during a recession was a moving occasion.

Thanks to each and every one of the trainers from North America – Mark, Ben, Chris, George, Tom, Reuben, Gavin and Austin - who gave sacrificially of their time, expertise and finance, to be in Bulgaria and assist Traycho and Ina in their vision of youth ministries across Bulgaria. Thanks also to our partners who make it possible to impact Europe. And lastly thanks to the one who truly makes this all possible - Jesus. It is only by His direction that God’s intentions for this nation and the Balkan region will be realised!