Change and Hope: Răzvan’s Story
When we first met Răzvan, he was only 15 years old and facing a three-year sentence. He rejected all forms of authority and refused to engage whenever someone tried to talk to him about it. His words carried anger and distrust. He often spoke about drugs and power, and even about making a pact with the devil.
Răzvan’s story is one of many we encounter in our daily work at Buzias Educational Center, where approximately 130 young people are held. Through Missio Link International’s Armonia program, we work with these young people, helping them discover values that can guide them toward better choices. We encourage them to understand the importance of a positive attitude and healthy friendships, to develop strong character and a healthy sense of self-worth, and to grow in forgiveness, courage, initiative, self-discipline, and a willingness to learn. Above all, we talk with them about the importance of faith in God.
Each week, the MLI team leads courses using materials such as Abstinence = Freedom, provided by the Estera Foundation; Freedom in Truth, provided by Berean Prison; and Choices for Freedom, provided by EQUIP Leadership. The latter two courses are accredited and approved by Romania’s National Administration of Penitentiaries (ANP). Participation can earn young people credits that contribute to a reduction in their sentences.
This summer, after nearly a year of participating in these courses, Răzvan began to open up. He started asking questions and engaging more deeply with the topics being discussed. He still has many doubts and moments of uncertainty, and his questions do not always have easy answers. Yet we are beginning to see hope emerge. Week by week, he becomes more open to the idea that his life can be different and have a greater purpose. Changes like these encourage us to keep going.
Behind every story like Răzvan’s is a young person facing personal struggles, holding deeply rooted beliefs, carrying disappointments, and searching for answers. Change can be difficult to see, and it takes time and perseverance. This is why we continue to walk alongside these young people, giving them opportunities to discover a biblical perspective on life and showing them that a fresh start is possible.
Our hope is that Răzvan and other young people with similar stories will experience a change of heart and discover the opportunity for a new beginning. We long for them to reintegrate into society after their release, make healthier choices, and build lives that are no longer defined by the mistakes of their past.
*Răzvan is a pseudonym used to protect the young person’s identity.
