Days 2–5: Goodbyes, New Roads, and Deeper Connections – Mark Bennett & Rick Mandigo

The past few days have been full of movement, new friendships, and countless reminders of God’s work across the nations.

The conference concluded with a powerful final session taught by a man from Western Africa who has spent decades in ministry and has seen more than a thousand churches planted. His stories of faith, endurance, and God’s provision were humbling and awe-inspiring. Each testimony we’ve heard this week has been a thread in a tapestry of what the Lord is doing around the world, proof that the gospel continues to flourish even in the most unlikely places.

One of the highlights was having breakfast with Schnezanna, Sunrise’s newest missionary serving in a small town in Serbia,the very region we’re now heading toward. Her excitement was evident as she shared about her community, her love for the people there, and the opportunities God is opening for ministry. Her joy and faith were contagious, a reminder of what it means to step out courageously into God’s calling.

We were joined that morning by Randy Schmore, the North American Baptist Director of Gateway Missions, a ministry that helps churches build global partnerships, trains mission teams, and takes groups overseas to serve and learn alongside international churches. Randy’s encouragement of Schnezanna’s work was heartfelt and sincere, and she received it with her usual humility and grace. Seeing the two of them together, a seasoned leader affirming a new missionary, was a beautiful picture of mentorship and shared mission across generations.

Throughout these sessions, we’ve heard so many stories of God’s transforming power: testimonies of radical provision, miraculous renewal, and the incredible things He can accomplish through a surrendered life. But we’ve also heard stories of pain and sacrifice, of those who have suffered loss or persecution for the sake of Christ. These moments remind us that following Jesus is both glorious and costly, and that His faithfulness is seen most clearly in those who continue to serve through hardship.

After our goodbyes in Durrës, we began the next stage of our journey, a seven-hour drive north toward Leskovac, Serbia, where we’ll be staying at the Hotel Gros. The road has been long and winding, carrying us through the countryside and mountains of Albania. We pass through Kosovo, which still bears the scars of political tension, and then into North Macedonia, before finally reaching the Serbian border. Because Serbia does not recognize Kosovo as an independent nation, the journey requires detouring through multiple crossings, a vivid reminder that this part of Europe is as complex as it is beautiful. 🇷🇸

Ron shared stories from a previous visit to this same hotel, where “remodeling” once meant a room with no floorboards, just carpet spread over dirt! Needless to say, we’re praying for rooms that haven’t been remodeled this time around. These moments bring humor and perspective, and they remind us that missions is as much about flexibility and grace as it is about planning and purpose.

As we travel, there is a quiet sense of anticipation for what’s ahead. The days to come will no doubt bring new challenges and opportunities to see God’s hand at work through relationships, conversations, and shared ministry. Each connection deepens our appreciation for the global family of believers and the faithfulness of God who binds us all together.

Reflection

These past days have been a living reminder that the gospel is not confined to one place or people. It crosses mountains and borders, languages and cultures, carrying hope where it’s most needed. As we move from one country to the next, we’re reminded that we don’t travel alone, the Spirit goes before us, preparing the way and shaping our hearts to listen, learn, and love well.

“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’”   Isaiah 52:7