Entries by Comunicare MLI

,

Alpiniș: playground and volunteers space

The beginning of summer marks the beginning of camp season at Alpiniș with ten weeks of consecutive camps until the end of August. This year, in preparation for the camp season we had two special projects:

A much needed and already appreciated playground from children at Zionsville Presbyterian Church, IN to children in Romania coming to camp at Alpiniș. Last year, the children from our partner church, ZPC, raised funds to assist us in putting up the playground, we send a word of appreciation across the world to our friends and invite them to come and enjoy the playground and time at Alpiniș with us!

We also worked on expanding some accommodation space for volunteers who come to serve with us at Alpiniș. The new facilities are complete thanks to the generosity of our partners, and it will bless volunteers who come to serve with us and blessing others.

/by
,

Pray – pedal – repeat!

Some sporting events remain personal challenges. Others become stories of people, community, and hope. This cycling tour organized by Ends of the Earth Cycling (EEC) for youth, beneficiaries of MLI programs, belongs to the latter.

Last year, our friends from EEC extended a long term partnership to MLI to invest in youth in Romania. In 2021, EEC organized the Key West Bike Ride in FL for MLI, for a few years our girls from Deborah House went to camp at Alpiniș and we equipped Alpiniș with a climbing wall and ski equipment with resources from the Key West ride. In 2021 pandemic restrictions forced me to cancel my participation. 

This year, from June 12–17, I had the privilege to represent MLI on the five day, 250 miles EEC Quebec Bike Ride on the beautiful Petit Train du Nord trail in Canada. It was overwhelming to see so much love and interest in the youth of Romania coming from brothers and sisters, cyclists, from the USA and Canada whom I have not met before. They literally pray-pedal-repeat to support our work for  girls from Deborah House, students from the Recaș area, juvenile offenders at the Buziaș Educational Center, and teenagers who have the opportunity to attend our camps At Alpiniș, Sibiu County. I heard stories of them raising support from friends and churches and shared about our Children at Risk and Alpiniș youth programs every day. 

The most special moments for me were seeing and hearing cyclists pray – following our daily prayer themes – for each of our programs by name, every day of the ride. Pray-pedal-repeat is taken seriously in this group. Every time groups left on the trail or stopped for water or photo breaks along the way, I would see 2-4-5 people come together and pray for the youth in Romania. I know our Lord hears those prayers and honors the love that is shared. 

Highlights included deep conversations about faith, ministry, Romania and of course the serendipity of the Canadian landscape together with the fun strenuous bike ride. We became friends and partners. I was so impressed with the detailed organization by our hosts, both the local Canadian believers as well as the whole team from EEC. You have served us beyond expectations! Thank you!

Not least, it was a special joy to ride again with our dear friend and partner Chris Duncan from Ashville, NC. In 2023, Chris organized a special bike ride on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway, 469 miles, for our Children at Risk. His heart for the girls from Deborah House has been consistent since 2002 and now we rode together again for the same goal. 

I will shout a heartfelt ”thank you” to all riders, the team and all partners who choose to invest in transforming the lives of youth in Romania with us. Thank you for turning even the sport of cycling into a mission service opportunity. 

We invite you to join this effort through your financial support as well, the possibility to do so on the EEC chanel remains active for a month after the ride. Every contribution becomes part of a journey that can change lives.



Click here : 2026 Quebec Bike Ride - Donation Page

/by
,

Alpinis Outdoor Challenge (AOC) Training

Equipping Leaders Through Outdoor Experiences

Between May 14–17, at the Alpinis Leadership Center, the mountains once again became more than a breathtaking backdrop. They became a classroom. We resumed the AOC training alongside a team of 12 participants, drawn together by a shared purpose: shaping a new generation of leaders and volunteers.

The first part of the training took place at Alpinis—a time of connection, learning, and preparation. Then, with tents ready and backpacks on our backs, we set out on the trail, hiking all the way to the Cânaia shelter in the Cindrel Mountains. The shift in rhythm, context, and comfort marked the transition from theory to experience—from conversations to real-life experience lived step by step along mountain paths.

In partnership with the Wilderness Ministry Institute (WMI), USA, we use backpacking trips as a tool for discipleship. We believe that when young people are taken out of their familiar daily rhythm and placed in front of the challenges of the mountain, a unique environment for formation is created—one in which character, faith, and relationships are shaped in a meaningful way.

Authentic Community

On the mountain, community is no longer built around activities, but around shared experiences. Fatigue becomes collective. A heavy backpack is no longer an individual burden, but part of a journey experienced together. Evenings in tents, simple meals, and honest conversations open space for vulnerability and genuine friendship. Gradually, a group of individuals becomes a united team—connected not only by purpose, but by lived experience.

Teachable Moments on the Trail

The mountains have a unique way of speaking. Every steep ascent, every brief pause, every step taken in effort becomes a transforming experience—a living picture of the spiritual journey. In such moments, learning is no longer theoretical, but deeply personal.

At the end of each day, exhaustion sometimes becomes the best teacher—because in moments of fatigue we discover truths about patience, perseverance, and character that comfort could never reveal.

We come to understand that some of the most important leadership insights are not born in classrooms, but on mountain paths. There, decisions are not theoretical but real—made in the face of exhaustion, changing weather, and personal limits. The mountains teach the rhythm of patience and the value of perseverance.

Through AOC, our goal is not to train organizers of outdoor activities. It is to shape leaders whose faith remains steady through time and trials—people ready to actively serve their communities, guiding young people with patience and faith toward the Creator.

In these contexts, leadership is no longer about position or title, but about care for others, about choosing to walk alongside those who are weaker, about encouragement offered exactly when the journey gets hard. Step by step, a quiet responsibility is formed—to ensure that no one is left behind.

And at the end of the journey, what matters is not only the path that was walked, but the way people have been transformed by it. The mountains do not build physical endurance alone, but also character—and, above all, they draw hearts closer to God.

/by
,

Investing in the Future: Theodor Șocâte Receives the Alec & Pati Woodhull Scholarship

Investing in the next generation of leaders is one of the most meaningful commitments a community can make. It is for this reason that we are pleased to announce that Theodor Șocâte has once again been selected for the second consecutive year as a recipient of the Alec & Pati Woodhull Scholarship, an annual award presented by the board of Missio International (MI) in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA.

The scholarship is granted to a young person who has completed one of the SPeR programs and who demonstrates strong potential for growth, initiative, and leadership. Through this initiative, MI reaffirms its commitment to supporting young people as they continue their academic and professional development, while also contributing to the well-being of the communities they serve.

Theodor is a second year student at the Baptist Theological Seminary in Bucharest, as well as at the Baptist Theology Section of the Bucharest University where his specialty is theology and social work.  This opportunity represents a recognition of his hard work, dedication, and the potential he has consistently shown. The scholarship provides him with the opportunity to continue his studies and to prepare for new responsibilities and opportunities to serve. 

The scholarship program reflects one of the core values of the partnership between MI and MLI: investing in people. Over the years, numerous educational initiatives have helped shape young individuals who today use their gifts and abilities in churches, organizations, educational institutions, and local communities.

We are deeply grateful to our partners at MI for their generosity and for the continued trust they place in the work carried out through MLI and in the young people involved in our programs.

We congratulate Theodor and rejoice with him for this opportunity. We pray that God will bless him in the years ahead and continue to guide him in all that he does.

/by
,

25 Years of Ministry: Looking Back with Gratitude, Looking Ahead with Hope

On May 20, we had the joy of celebrating 25 years of ministry through our foundation. It was a special evening that gave us the opportunity to pause, reflect, and look back on a journey marked by God’s faithful guidance every step of the way. We want to honor our Lord and our partners.

“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” (Psalm 126:3)

Joining us for this celebration were representatives of local authorities, ministry partners, collaborators, beneficiaries, volunteers, current staff, and former employees. In every person present, we could see a piece of the story God has been writing through MLI over the past 25 years. We were especially honored by the presence of our partners from the United States, represented by Kenny Woodhull, President of Missio International, as well as MI Board members Laura Burrell and Jessica DeViney, and a team from Toledo, OH.

Throughout the evening, we reflected on the people, projects, and partnerships that have shaped the ministry over the past quarter century. Yet beyond the programs and milestones, we were reminded of what truly matters: the lives that have been touched and transformed. Children who were given a new chance in life. Young people who discovered direction and hope. Families who found support during difficult seasons. Communities that were strengthened and uplifted.

We were deeply encouraged by the words of appreciation shared by those who have walked alongside us through the years. Their testimonies reminded us that the true impact of a ministry is not measured by what it does, but by the people it serves and the lives God changes through it.

As we look back, we see God’s faithfulness woven through every chapter of this story. We see the countless individuals who believed in this mission and invested their time, resources, and prayers so that people facing difficult circumstances could experience hope, healing, support, and new opportunities.

Our hearts are filled with gratitude for every person who has been part of this journey. After 25 years, we continue to look toward the future with the same desire to serve the community and the same confidence that God will continue to transform lives through the people He brings alongside us.

/by
,

A Well-Cared-For Home for Precious Girls

Because since 2002, at Casa Debora, we have been working day by day to mend hearts, in 2025 we also had to work on repairing the buildings. 

Since 2002, Casa Debora has been a place where broken hearts find healing and hope. In 2025, however, we found ourselves caring not only for the girls who call Casa Debora home, but also for the home itself. 

Home means safety, comfort, and a place where you feel protected. For the girls at Debora House, “home” is both a refuge where they begin to heal from the wounds of the past and the place where they spend their childhood and teenage years. After more than two decades of continuous use, with only minor maintenance work over the years, 2025 brought a major transformation to the spaces where the girls live: the bathrooms and several of the bedrooms.

An Obstacle-Filled Race

The beginning of 2025 brought with it a significant challenge: developing and completing a major renovation project within a relatively short timeframe. That challenge became a full-scale renovation of all 10 bathrooms across the two Debora homes.

Each home includes five bedrooms, and each bedroom has its own bathroom, as required by Romanian regulations. After years of use, all ten bathrooms were in need of extensive renovation.

As with any major construction project, unexpected obstacles soon emerged. Once the contractors opened up the walls, they discovered a critical issue: the plumbing system, more than 20 years old, had deteriorated significantly and was at risk of failure. Had it been left untouched, a single major leak could have damaged much of the newly renovated space. Although the discovery increased the cost of the project, the right course of action was clear—we replaced the entire plumbing system. 

In addition to these technical challenges, 2025 also brought economic pressures. A nationwide tax increase, rising construction material costs, and significant currency fluctuations drove expenses well beyond our original estimates. Even so, we remained committed to completing the project.

None of this would have been possible without an extraordinary display of generosity. The cornerstone of this project was a generous $24,640 grant provided by the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Ohio, which enabled us to begin the work.

As unforeseen plumbing repairs and inflation increased costs, the total project budget grew to $44,062. The remaining $19,422 was raised through the faithful support of local partners in Romania and short-term mission teams from the United States who visited throughout the summer.

Today, having crossed the finish line, we can confidently say the effort was worth it. The girls at Casa Debora now enjoy fully renovated bathrooms that meet the highest sanitary standards and provide a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

Many Hands Make the Work Lighter

The generosity of our partners created a ripple effect. Thanks to careful stewardship of resources and additional support received along the way, we were able to do more than originally planned. In addition to renovating the bathrooms, we also refurbished all five bedrooms in Casa Debora 2 by repairing and repainting the walls and replacing the flooring.

The result is a brighter, cleaner, and more welcoming environment—a place where the girls can grow, learn, and thrive with dignity.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Behind every fixture installed and every pipe replaced stands a helping hand extended in love. This project was never just about construction. It was about offering dignity, care, and respect to girls who have already faced significant hardships in life. It was also a testament to what can be accomplished through teamwork among foundation staff, contractors, and partners.

We are deeply grateful to the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, to our donors in the United States and Romania, and to everyone who contributed to making this transformation possible. Together, you have done more than renovate buildings—you have helped strengthen the sense of safety and belonging that Casa Debora provides.

At the conclusion of the project, a group of eight visitors from the United States, including several members of the Rotary Club of Perrysburg, Ohio, had the opportunity to see the completed renovations firsthand. During their visit, they also met children from our SPeR programs and learned more about the foundation’s broader ministry.

Their visit offered a tangible reminder of what God can accomplish through faithful partnerships. For more than 25 years, alongside friends and supporters like these, we have continued to respond to some of the deepest needs in our communities—and we remain committed to that mission for years to come.

/by
,

Three Events, One Purpose: Spiritual Growth and Unity in Christ

Over the years, Maranatha Baptist Church in Câmpina has developed its partnership with Missio Link International (MLI) into a consistent investment in leadership formation and the equipping of believers for ministry. Through the resources provided by the Alpiniș Leadership Center (ALC), its network of collaborators, and the Leadership Development program, several impactful events were organized this spring, both within the church and across the wider evangelical community in the Valea Prahovei region.

 

“Remaining in Christ” – Training at Alpiniș (April 16–19)

The partnership between MLI, Maranatha Baptist Church in Câmpina, and the International Theological Education Ministry (ITEM) in the United States has become a space of formation for many pastors and future leaders from the Câmpina–Valea Prahovei region and beyond. Under the theme “Remaining in Christ,” the gathering at the ALC, led by Carl Leep (ITEM), combined teaching, fellowship, and encouragement, offering participants fresh insights and practical tools for ministry.

The sessions helped participants rediscover what it means to live a life fully dependent on God. As in previous years, the emphasis was placed not only on personal transformation but also on the impact of ministry within the Church as the Body of Christ and, of course, in the local community. Each of these moments also served as an opportunity to highlight the importance of partnership and to give thanks to God for a time of growth and unity.

Câmpina Regional Conference (May 8-9)

In May, Maranatha Baptist Church in Câmpina gathered more than 80 leaders and volunteers from approximately 15 Christian communities across the counties of Prahova, Dâmbovița, and Buzău. This regional conference continues a long-standing and multi-layered partnership with MLI. Beyond its established tradition, the gathering reflects the hosts’ desire to move beyond their own walls in order to serve others.

Professors Emil Bartoș and Radu Gheorghiță led a series of sessions on the theme “The Miraculous Gifts of the Holy Spirit.” Through their complementary, Scripture-based approaches, they encouraged participants to reflect carefully on this important and often debated topic within evangelical circles. The interest generated by the theme led to continued discussions in local churches in the weeks leading up to Pentecost.

Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the environment in which these topics were explored. Subjects that can often lead to polarization in other settings were approached through dialogue, honest questions, and careful biblical study. Rather than emphasizing differences, the gathering created space for mutual understanding, reflection, and spiritual growth—a truly meaningful experience.

Alpiniș Outdoor Challenge (May 14–17)

In a culture shaped by speed, comfort, and shallow connections, the Alpiniș Outdoor Challenge offers something different: a few days on the trail, with a backpack on one’s shoulders and ample space for reflection, authentic relationships, and spiritual growth. Through its partnership with the Wilderness Ministry Institute (Colorado, USA), the program equips leaders to help young people discover that the most important journeys are not about changing scenery, but about transforming the heart.

We carried out this initiative with pastors, leaders, and future leaders from several evangelical communities across Romania. The experience combined physical challenge, personal reflection, and leadership formation for ministry and discipleship.

Whether through teaching, dialogue, or adventure, each of these events contributed to the same purpose: better-equipped people for ministry and stronger relationships within the Body of Christ. We are grateful for these opportunities of learning, fellowship, and growth.

/by
,

Faithful Church Partnerships: visits, Mission Conference and Leadership Development

Over the years, the relationship between Zionsville Presbyterian Church (ZPC), Tabernacle Presbyterian Church (TabPC), and the partners in Romania has grown beyond distance and shared projects. It has become a genuine friendship, built over time through presence, shared ministry, and a common desire to see lives transformed.

Once again, this year, from April 13–24, teams from the U.S. visited Romania to stand along our side in the work of evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development across several regions of the country.

The two weeks spent in Romania gave team members the opportunity to visit partner churches in the Fetești–Călărași–Giurgiu region and to meet with pastors, leaders, and believers actively involved in local ministry. These moments brought mutual encouragement, meaningful exchange of experience, and strengthened the relationships built over many years.

The visit also included contributions in the area of Christian leadership training. Students at the Sola Scriptura College in Giurgiu took part in a dedicated training session, while two regional trainings were held in Bucharest and Alexandria, bringing together participants from various Christian communities. These gatherings provided practical resources and encouragement for those involved in ministry.

As part of the itinerary, the teams also traveled to Timișoara, where they had the opportunity to learn more about the projects carried out by MLI and their impact in local communities.

A central moment of the visit was the conference hosted at the Alpiniș Leadership Center, where pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders from Cluj, Alexandria, Giurgiu, Fetești, Călărași, and Zimnicea gathered for several days of fellowship, teaching, and spiritual encouragement. Pastor Stan Johnson (ZPC) led participants through the teachings of 2 Timothy, while additional sessions brought together various speakers and perspectives from different international ministry contexts.

The value of these days was perhaps best captured in the words of the participants themselves: 

“I returned home encouraged and ready to get back to work. The study of 2 Timothy helped me gain a deeper understanding of the responsibility of ministry, as well as the determination and discipline required to faithfully proclaim the Gospel.”

A particularly meaningful moment of the conference was the presentation by Rev. Dickens Anyati, Lira, Uganda and Pastor Mark Brocado on their work through Path International among orphans in Uganda—a powerful testimony of the Gospel’s impact beyond national borders.

We were inspired and challenged through the messages and experiences shared throughout the conference. Reflecting on the event, another attendee shared:

“The experience was a great encouragement for ministry. Hearing about the work in Uganda prompted me to reflect on how blessed we are and on our responsibility to support those facing far greater needs than our own.”

The fellowship and time spent together were concluded symbolically with the Lord’s Supper—a moment that highlighted the unity of believers across different contexts and communities.

Such partnerships continue to be sustained by trust, prayer, and a shared vision for the Gospel. We are grateful for the long-standing friendship with ZPC and TabPC, and we pray that God will continue to use this collaboration for the expansion of His Kingdom.

/by
,

Beyond Labels: Teaching Children and Youth That Their Value Has No Price

There are words that hurt when spoken, and “exploitation” is undoubtedly one of them. But when that word becomes a hidden reality lurking in the shadows of vulnerability, silence is no longer an option. Sadly, children and youth remain the most exposed to the invisible traps of human trafficking in all its forms.

Meaningful change never happens by itself. Driven by a desire to protect the most vulnerable among us, we joined forces with the National Agency Against Human Trafficking – Timișoara Regional Center in a partnership rooted in both compassion and action. Between April and June, we worked together to build a shield of awareness and understanding through a series of human trafficking prevention sessions for students at the „Constantin Păunescu” Special Education Center in Recaș, coordinated by Missio Link International (MLI) through the Back to School program.

According to data published by the National Agency Against Human Trafficking, the number of victims increased significantly in 2025. While 610 victims were officially identified in 2024, that number rose to 707 in 2025—a 16% increase that calls for careful attention and action.

School is about more than equations and grammar. It is also about life, boundaries, and safety.

Each prevention session began by examining the meaning of the word “exploitation.” Together, we unpacked the many forms human trafficking can take in the real world, often disguised as promising opportunities or false friendships. Students learned about forced labor, sexual exploitation, forced begging, child trafficking, and organ trafficking, as well as the warning signs associated with each.

By the end of our sessions, participants arrived at a conclusion that was both simple and powerful:

The world becomes a safer place when we refuse to use others for our own gain—and when we learn to firmly say “no” to those who seek to use us.

Beyond laws, statistics, and prevention strategies, our hope was that these conversations would leave a lasting impact on their hearts. In a world that often tries to assign a price tag to human beings, we wanted to remind them of an unchanging truth: God created them uniquely, and in His eyes, their value is beyond measure.

Our message to them—and to every child, teenager, and adult who may read these words—is simple:

  • Do not let anyone put a price on your worth.
  • Do not trade your safety for empty promises.
  • Choose to stay safe, because you deserve to be protected.

In a society that is constantly changing, we remain committed to strengthening the Back to School program through education, consistent presence, and meaningful relationships. As we serve vulnerable children and youth, we continue to listen carefully, understand their challenges, and respond to their evolving needs.

Our goal is to make the Back to School program more than a place of learning—it is a place where young people can experience genuine freedom, dignity, and hope.

/by
,

Ski Camp – 4th Edition, Alpiniș MLI

Theme: Friendship

This winter we experienced together a new edition of the ski camp for families with children—a week full of joy, growth, and moments that brought us closer to one another and, together, closer to God. This year’s theme, “Friendship,” challenged us to reflect on what it truly means to keep close: to share in joy, to support one another in times of need, and, from an eternal perspective, to guide one another to Christ.

The days were full of energy and enthusiasm. The children spent time on the slopes where, alongside dedicated instructors, they made visible progress and learned not only new techniques but also lessons in perseverance and courage. At the same time, parents enjoyed a valuable time of rest and equipping by participating in the Alpha course for parents of teenagers—a space for reflection and encouragement during this important stage of family life.

In the evenings, we gathered together for teaching and fellowship. Our guest, caricaturist Radu Clețiu, illustrated through live drawing the beauty of the friendship between David and Jonathan—a friendship placed above personal interests, a model of loyalty and devotion. The evenings were filled with singing, outdoor bonfires with snacks, meaningful conversations, and prayer—times when relationships deepened and hearts opened.

A special highlight of the week was the Alpiniș Cup, the ski competition for children who participated in the lessons. The emotions at the finish line, the parents’ applause, and the children’s sincere joy were clear evidence of their progress and of the supportive atmosphere that characterized the entire camp.

Beyond the schedule and activities, what remains are the testimonies of hearts that were touched:

“For us, the camp exceeded expectations. The excellent organization and balanced schedule—skiing, meals, rest—helped us truly enjoy the week without feeling rushed. We especially appreciated the evening messages and games; even though we were newcomers, we felt warmly welcomed. The idea of offering an Alpha course in the mornings for those who don’t ski was brilliant. And the fondue night and outdoor bonfire were special, unforgettable moments.”

“The evening Bible messages deeply touched us. They were inspiring and easy to remember, and the visual illustrations made the truths come alive in such practical ways. We also greatly appreciated the idea of an Alpha course for parents of teenagers—it’s an initiative we truly need at this stage of our lives.”

“We’re leaving with hearts full of gratitude. We thank God for everything. It was a joy to see how much our children have grown—they managed on their own and pleasantly surprised us. The atmosphere was wonderful: reconnecting with dear friends and forming new friendships. On the last evening, when we saw the tables full of people playing and laughing together, we felt we were leaving richer than when we arrived. Even with our health challenges, it was a true blessing.”

We look back with gratitude. We thank God for His protection, for the friendships formed, and for the growth each of us experienced. We also thank the team and everyone involved for their dedication and service.

We look forward with joy to future editions, confident that each gathering like this plants seeds that will bear fruit in time.

/by