Interview with Pastor Bran
Tell me something about you.
Well, I was born in Romania. I left Romania when I was 18 to come to England. I’ve always enjoyed the Ministry, especially with the youth. I also enjoy the media and music.
How did you become a Christian?
I was born into the Seventh-day Adventist faith, as were my parents, who had opened their house as a church because there wasn’t one in our area. It was my grandparents who were led to the church, at first.
Can you share one special time when the Lord answered your prayers?
I remember when I was 18, I decided to study Theology in England. I applied for a visa, but they refused to give me one. I then prayed to God and promised him that if I was given a visa to come to England, I would then become a pastor.
What is your most memorable experience of your faith so far?
When I wanted to be baptised, my mum was in England with my brother, and there was no way that she would have been back in time for my baptism. But I was so determined that I went along with it anyway. Fortunately, my father and a few other family members were there to witness this special moment in my life.
What are the most important things in your life right now?
My family and God’s purpose.
What advice would you give to people who are having problems in their lives and losing faith?
If it’s a private issue, then the best advice I can give them is to pray to the Lord. He will help them in the best way possible. If it’s something they don’t mind discussing however, then they can always talk to those they are close to for moral support and perhaps ask someone to pray for them.
What spiritual advice can you give the people?
People need to understand the meaning of God being crucified for us: He saves us, He forgave us of ALL OUR SINS, and He expects us to love Him in return. The spiritual journey has been so many times compared with a roller coaster ride, and it is true, but what we need to remember is that Jesus always rides next to us. And if there is one thing that I know about my God, and it is proven time and time again in the Bible, is that He is more interested in my future and not so much about my past.
What is your favourite biblical verse?
1 Chronicles 29:11 (NKJV)“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness, The power and the glory, The victory and the majesty; For all that is in heaven and in earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O LORD, And You are exalted as head over all.”
What is your favourite Gospel song?
Wow, where do I begin? Jesus is coming again (213), Take my life and let it be (330), I need thee every hour (483), Standing on the promises (518). There are so many more that I could mention.
What are your final words of encouragement to the people of the world?
Life can be great if we do our best. Still, it doesn’t compare to God’s plan for us all.
Pastor Emanuel Bran was interviewed by Val.
