Kosovo | A Journey Full of Encounters

In April, Erik, Bram, and Jolanda traveled to Gjakova, Kosovo, to meet our local partners Nora and Metush and see their work firsthand. Our goal was to deepen our relationships and explore how we can further grow our partnership. In a country where trust is not a given, it became clear once again how valuable it is to work together, listen, and be present.

A place where love becomes visible

We attended Nora and Metush's kids' club. There, we saw their team in action: children listening intently to a Bible story, singing along enthusiastically to the songs, and clearly enjoying the personal attention they receive. It's more than just a program — it's a place where love becomes tangible. Alongside sharing God's Word, the children also receive practical care, such as food and attention. For many of them, that is invaluable.

What stood out was the team's dedication. Week after week, they build relationships with these children and their families with loyalty and compassion.

Relationships that have endured for years

On Sunday morning, we attended a service at the small church where Nora and Metush gather with the local community. We met people with whom Bram — our chairman — has had a long-standing connection, and we heard their stories.

Bram lived and worked in Kosovo for twenty years. During this trip, he shared much of his history and the places that are important to him. This added extra depth to our encounters: relationships that have grown over the years and still visibly bear fruit.

A faithful presence in the villages around Gjakova

Later that day, we bought food for families that the team visits regularly. In small villages around Gjakova, Nora and Metush, along with their team, organize Bible clubs at regular locations, combined with practical help.

We visited some of these families — and there we saw the impact of years of faithful service. Children ran up to them enthusiastically, sang along to the songs effortlessly, and clearly felt safe and seen. A strong bond of trust has also been built with the parents.

The many personal stories touched us deeply. The impact of the country's wartime past is still evident in the daily lives of many people. This is precisely what makes clear how badly both practical help and the sharing of God's love are needed here. It is not (only) words, but above all faithfulness and deeds, that make the difference here.

Building the future together

This trip reaffirmed just how powerful it is when truth, love, and deeds come together. Nora and Metush's work fits seamlessly into this: being faithfully present, sharing the gospel, and at the same time caring for the most vulnerable.

Another important part of this trip was looking ahead. We explored whether this work could be a good fit for an enthusiastic church from the Netherlands that we are in contact with. There is a wonderful opportunity to organize youth trips together, where young people help at Bible club summer camps and provide practical help — such as repairing roofs or handing out shoes. In this way, a new generation can also become involved in what God is doing here.

We look back with gratitude on days filled with encounter, deepening, and hope. What we saw encourages us: God is at work in Kosovo — and together we are privileged to be part of it.