Ornela Pica is the Executive Director of the Albanian Encouragement Project.
When did you trust Christ?
I first met Jesus in 1993. I was returning home from my Italian course with my sister and friends, and we walked by a church. I had never seen this church, and the door of it had a sign written in Albanian that said 'Jesus is alive today'. This got my attention, so I went inside. The church was closed because it had finished at the same time as my language course. Then, I was told that the church meets at 10 am, which was the same time my class started. I had to decide: go to church or go to my language course. I went to church, which was a decision my mom did not take easily. When my pastor asked me how I came to church, I told him this story. He said, 'Well, you lost the course, but I am going to teach you Italian because I am Italian.' I was amazed. I now have a wonderful story of how God called me and what He has done in my life. That year, I decided to follow Jesus and got baptised.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
First, missionaries in the church have impacted my faith. Second, Bible studies, seminars, and conferences helped me in my walk. Third, my family situation has caused me to grow and come closer to the Lord. Fourth, working with a large staff has also helped me in my walk.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
My intention is to learn more. I need to learn more about NGO fundraising. Also, I am looking forward to getting to know other leaders and sharing about my ministries in Albania because there is a great opportunity to come and serve or collaborate with Albanian churches or organisations.
What is your ministry?
At the moment, I lead the worship team and help with children's ministry (pre-teens) at my church. With my organisation, we are serving missionaries in Albania. We provide member care and practical help for them while living in Albania.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I have had several leadership roles in the church I attend. First, I was a youth leader in our church from 1997 to 2009. I have been involved with our worship group since I was 13. I was a church leadership member from 1997 to 2004. For many years, I have led prayer meetings and organised church events.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
The AEP (Albanian Encouragement Project) ministry is special to Albania. It supports missionaries in order for them to support Albanian pastors, leaders, and churches. You should consider investing in me so I can become a better leader, which extends to the support I give to Albanian pastors and leaders. I am committed to learning and using I have received from this investment.
