Grace and peace from God, our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ!
The Summer Camp hosts children between the ages of seven and fourteen for five consecutive days. This year has been a great joy for both the children and us because it is the first year after the pandemic when this beautiful work resumes. During these five days, the children enjoy biblical skits in which they themselves get involved in playing various roles of Bible characters such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Goliath, among others. They are encouraged to paint, color, learn biblical songs and verses, and engage in many other fun and attractive activities. Here, the children feel loved and safe, and we often get to hear various stories from their lives, whether from school, playtime, family, or with their friends.
This year, one of the more sensitive children named Marius, who is ten years old and comes from Orthodox parents, shared that he had a feeling of shame. His parents, in turn, have likely suffered in the same way as their child. It is common for us to raise our children exactly as we were raised ourselves. We tend to love them as much as we were loved, and I speak from my own experience here. I do not remember my father ever taking me in his arms and telling me that he loves me. That's why I accepted to do the biggest stupidities, to drink, smoke, leave home, and many other things just to be appreciated and accepted by my friends. I believe that for many people in the world, love is still an unknown subject. I saw in the eyes of this little boy the lack of love, protection, and the fear of being rejected. I was very happy that he was in our midst, that he chose to come to our community and participate in this camp. We pray for this child, even for his parents, and we want him to feel the love of God. This time, he learned that God is the one who surprises you, that He is everywhere, knows everything, and is present in every place. He learned to pray to the One who truly cares for him, and we pray that God touches his heart. We invite you once again to pray with us, not only for Marius but also for all children like him. Pray that God continues to grant us wisdom and understanding to do His will! Thank you, and may you be blessed in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Florin Sfetcu - PIEI Romania Missioanry