My time at the Moldova Seminary was a real eye opener.  Coming from friendly Texas, I was surprised by the lack of response I received from many residents as I made my way around the community.  When I smiled or waved at them, they would look at me and then keep on walking.  I asked the students why this was happening and they explained to me that for adults who had lived almost their entire lives under Soviet oppression, there was little to smile about.  Anyone who smiled was obviously 'not from around here' or was probably untrustworthy. Added to this, I learned that evangelical Christians were considered far outside the norm and are often treated as a cult.  It would seem that evangelism would be nearly impossible... and then I saw the genius of what the Seminary is doing. 

Since during the summer hundreds of young children get to hear good news, many respond to the message of the Gospel.  Throughout the year the church organizes weekly Bible studies.  Alinarea church has been actively developing this in connection with the church plant.  From January to May there was one group meeting weekly.   But since September of 2018 there are now two groups led by Alinarea Bible Church volunteers.