Forum Newsletter May 2017

Dear Friends,

As we are fast approaching the summer of 2017 we would like to share a quick reflection on the work of Forum for Leadership and Reconciliation (Forum) at this time.

The work of Forum embraces the governing of the three amazing leadership ministries with global impact, yet anchored in Southeast Europe (Balkans):

ROM – Renewing Our Minds reconciliation and leadership ministry was born in 1999 in Fužine, a picturesque and welcoming village in Croatia, with the vision and mission to help build a new generation of leaders across all lines of division – ethnic, racial, political and religious; and all of it on the platform of the teachings and example of the person of Jesus. Many ROM alumni have emerged as leaders of influence, and are today making a difference in the political, social, humanitarian and religious arenas of their countries. Our vision and mission continues to grow strong - “Developing Ambassadors for a Better World”.

We are less than three months away (August) from our next, two week long international ROM - Renewing Our Minds Leadership and Reconciliation Gathering to be held in Fuzine, Croatia. We are expecting 60 young and selected leaders from at least 15 countries to take part in the ROM 2017 Gathering.

EDI – Economic Diplomacy and Integrity Forum, a powerful leadership ministry for change built upon the vision of ROM, continues to bring together young professionals whose mission is to serve their countries as business people, economists and politicians. Since 2006 EDI has been instrumental in inspiring the birth of several national EDI initiatives in countries like Romania, Albania, Costa Rica and Serbia.

We are only two months away from the next annual EDI – Economic Diplomacy and Integrity Forum planned for two weeks in Fuzine, Croatia at the end of July. We believe that the best way to fight against unhealthy rivalry among and within nations is by pursuing an economic and political community inspired by Jesus’ life and based on His principles. We are expecting 40 young, promising leaders from at least 10 countries to attend EDI 2017 in Croatia.

Golden Rule Project, a more recent project was born with a vision of becoming a practical expression of service of Forum, that embraces the communities of ROM and EDI into visible demonstrations of love and service to various groups of people in need. Since 2015 our focus has been on serving refugees passing through or staying in the Balkans. In 2017 we will continue to serve a group of Iranian Refugees who left their country due to religious persecution. The words of Jesus, “Whatever you did for the least of those, you did for me” are the guiding principles behind the Golden Rule project.

Our Forum ministry, and our ROM, EDI and Golden Rule programs are becoming more precious and needed than ever, at this time of increasing global distress, international tensions, and growing atmosphere of hatred and conflicts. How we wish we were able to do more, or encourage others to do more in peace making by multiplying the practical means of service, training and mentoring? But all of it calls for funds that we do not have, and frankly, it is becoming increasingly more challenging to secure the financial support we need.

With your support however, we will be able to equip at least one hundred young leaders with a new, Jesus centered vision of leadership and peace making. Please, follow the instructions provided in the sidebar and in our online edition of the latest newsletter. If unclear, or if you would like to know more fell free to contact us and we will gladly to respond to you.

As you give this time we would like you to see our need in the light of our rich history almost twenty years old, and always about lifting up the name of Jesus. This long history of service and education has been proven by success, supported by the prayers of many, and made possible only through the sacrificial donations and gifts given by people like you.

And let us remember that the main fruit of our labor are the hundreds of seasoned leaders who are at this time making a profound difference in many countries of the world.

Thank you for your love, partnership and giving.

Tihomir Kukolja, Forum for Leadership and Reconciliation, Executive Director