Pastor Birlea and his family

Short History

In the summer of 1991, I received a strong conviction from God to start a new church in the city of Baia Mare, Romania. Although there were already some evangelical and traditional churches in town, I sensed the need for a new direction for a non-formalist church, free from people imposed tradition, a dynamic church in which the Word and all of spiritual gifts manifestation is encouraged.
More than that, God wanted this church to provide the favourable environment for nurturing capable workers for the large harvest of Romania and the whole world, in the last days. Our vision for the church also includes a large social implication, breaking the walls of religiosity which the church has built between itself and the secular society.
In 1990 I met Atena and we become best friends for good and hard times. We shared the same calling from the very beginning, to follow God's will for our lives, no matter the price we would have to pay. We studied together the Bible in the "Rhema" Bible Institute in Timisoara, while we were working on the foundation of the church in Baia Mare.
In the spring of 1990 we got married, joining together in a life long service for God. We are blessed with three children: Amanda Rebeca, Marko David and Emma Naomi.
Our first steps in ministry were not easy. We faced a lot of opposition from traditional churches. We started this vision with no support or material resources, no finances, only with the strong belief in God's calling and His faithfulness. Many said in a few months everything would be over; God always told us something else. Over a 5 year period we moved through 7 halls, as long term rent halls are not available in Baia Mare. This affected the church's growth rate and stability. In spite of this and many other problems, the Holy Spirit transformed many lives and Logos Church gained stability and its own identity, conforming to the vision God originaly gave us.
The teaching in the church had a great impact in its members' lives and many of us started to experience the efficiency and power of God's Word in a practical way.
Thus, in 1995, with God's help we managed to buy an old building in a good area of our city. When we first discussed the project details with the architects, we didn't even have enough money for the plans. In faith we dared to proceed, and by the tithes and generosity of our members and some help from friends, we built a modest house and some useful annexes. Glory to God for His help!
With the construction finalised, things started to function better with a new sense of stability. In the time following we experienced renewed guidance and miraculous Holy Spirit manifestations. We had the grace to see miracles, healings and deliverances, together with lives radically changed ; not read or heard about only, but seen with our own eyes.
I believe the Word that says that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever! I experienced this truth so many times and I believe I will from now on in our ministry.
There was a time in my life when I responded to God's challenge, just like Joshua did: "as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord". The truth is not easy thing, but as a response to our Saviour's love we felt the need of enrolling in His great army of warriors in these critical times, in order to lift up those who fall and encourage and prepare those who want to fight.