ROMANIA

    In mid-October I had the opportunity to lead a South Florida church on a mission trip to Romania. In total we had an opportunity to pass out around 1,800 Books of Hope! As I made my way from England to join them, I had to laugh about my life. Twenty-four hours prior I had no clue I'd be making my way to Cluj in the north of Transylvania. But given an emergency situation with one of our staff, I was called upon to make the 3 trains and 2 flights journey...and I can't say I minded. My journey took me through train stations in London, flooding back memories of my college semester studying there. A semester which solidified my call to be involved in international ministry. And I had to chuckle that it was a TV documentary on Romanian orphanages and a desire to go there roughly 15 years prior that awakended my heart to the nations in the first place. Now, I was on my way.

Cluj, Romania is a bustling city the likes of any major European city, set amidst the Romanian culture of old Transylvania. It's known for it's many universities and medical facilites and the trendy side of the city reveals that young and upcoming feel. We had an opportunity to go into schools and give out the Book of Hope. But, as is happening with much of Europe, there was a hesistancy and warning to not be overly religious or mention God...many schools being leary of such things. So, we prayed, and trusted that the books we handed out, God's hopeful Word, would do its part as we planted. And I believe it will.

Not only did we plant in the hearts of children, but also planted vision for churches. Many of the Christians we worked with were excited that such a Book and a program existed for kids and they were eager to help us and to continue such work in the future.

We had opportunity to reach out in schools, but also in community programs and "family houses" - Romania's new answer to the traditional orphanage model. One brother in Christ works in a community outreach program to children who come from less fortunate circumstances. Many of these kids are from Gypsy families and deal with a lot of prejudice from Romanian society. We also had a chance to visit two family houses. Orphans are placed in actual houses located in Romanian suburbs and given a house parent(s) to oversee them. These homes have a much warmer feel than an orphanage and while they are a government run institution, many of the social workers are Christians with a true heart to love these kids. It was sad to leave them, but it was hopeful to leave them with God's Words of love and hope for their lives.

On a journey outside the city, we got to see a typical village and market as well as some beautiful country sites. Overall, I felt priveledged that this is what I get to do with my life - see the world and impact the destinies of children's lives. Please take a look through my pictures and let me know how you are!

Comments

[Just Matt]

V-Nasty! We miss you!!! Your words are very encouraging! It is nice to know that you have your feet on the street with all of this! I am praying for you!

[John T]

I miss you too V-snazzy...