Brooklands

Gospel

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Drew Craig - Eastern European Inasmuch Trust

 

Drew Craig was one of the founder members of the Brooklands Assembly when it was established in 1969. All his secular life up until retiring age at sixty was spent in Local and Central Government. In 1984 though the influence of a Missionary friend he visited Romania. This proved to be the first of many visits. It was his privilege to minister in many of the Brethren Assemblies, of which there are more than six hundred.

 

During the years 1984 to 1989, the latter end of Communist rule he experienced at first hand the persecution of evangelical Christians. They were disadvantaged, relentlessly watched and pursued, their leaders often questioned by the Security Police. In some cases imprisoned followed and even killed for their resolute stand for the Faith. It was to witness their devotion and determined service for the Lord they loved. The services, closely monitored by informers, were full to capacity, the singing, praying and fervent presentation of the Scriptures could only be accounted for by the over ruling presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

 

In a very limited way it was possible to provide humanitarian aid through Associations approved by the Romanian Government. However individual Christians and churches did provide considerable financial help which Drew took with him on his visits. After the revolution in December 1989 it became much easier to transport material aid by large overland containers. This continued until 2004 when basic goods could be purchased in Romania.

 

With the advent of freedom and the increased interest of the Christians, particularly in Northern Ireland the Eastern European Inasmuch Trust was established and still continues to function. Through the exercise of one local brother, Jonathan Kelso the container traffic recommenced to assist in the support of a private Christian Medical Foundation and School. In 2006 the trust Deed was altered and Jonathan with another brother joined. This has been a great help to Drew, who after twenty four years of involvement, is glad to be able to hand over a major part of the work load.

 

The main work of the Trust, which can be contacted through this web site and the e-mail addresses given below, continues to be the strengthening of the Assemblies by Bible teaching and personal contacts with disadvantaged people. These are mainly of the Roma Gypsy Communities and in recent years there has been a very encouraging movement of God among them in many parts of the Country. To come from a background of debauchery and sin into new life in Christ is thrilling to see but is a constant daily struggle to throw off the baggage of the past. However while there are many disappointments and difficulties in this work there evident signs of the overcoming grace of God.

 

Drew has also been involved in the development of a small Bible school in the town of Talmaciu in Central Romania. This has been in operation since 1990. It is open during several weeks in the winter months when it is impossible due to weather conditions for people in the rural areas to work. The Scriptures alone are taught and over the years many of the young and not so young men have matured in Evangelism and teaching. Many have become Elders in their respective Assemblies.

 

As mentioned above more information can be obtained by contacting Drew.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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