Entries by Comunicare MLI

Mountain Treasures: A Week of Family, Adventure, and Togetherness

The third edition of the “Mountain Treasure” family camp at Alpiniș brought us together once again, at the foot of the mountains, for a few days of stories, shared experiences, and precious time with the people we love.

Away from the usual pace of everyday life, families had the chance to discover new things, get creative, and enjoy meaningful time together. Children delighted in play, while parents joined them in the adventures planned throughout the week.

Guided by Ina Bulzan, a psychotherapist, storyteller, and mother, each day was filled with simple joys and special moments. We got creative with clay and paint during the workshops, explored the forest trails leading to the river, picked blueberries along the way, and flew kites under the open sky. At the adventure park, children had the chance to overcome their fear of heights. For parents, beyond the excitement of the course itself, they had the opportunity to see their children in a new light.

For the past three years, we have worked with Ina to bring this special week to life, and each year has been unique in its own way. This year’s camp was especially meaningful to Ina. As she put it, “I think this was the most special and heartfelt camp we’ve had yet.”

The family camp is especially close to Cosmin Ban’s heart. As one of its organizers, he looks forward to it every year and enjoys taking part in the activities alongside his own family. He shares: “To me, family camp is the highlight of the summer. There is something special about being in a place I love, surrounded by the mountains, my family and friends, and other families who are just as excited to join in, explore the outdoors, go hiking, listen to stories, and simply enjoy being together.”

Friendship, generosity, and care for the world around us were woven into every part of this year’s story. We enjoyed wonderful days together, sharing laughter, good conversations, and the beauty of God’s creation.

A big thank you to all the families who joined us for this special week at “Mountain Treasure” family camp. 

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21

/by
,

A Chance for a Better Future: Turning Vulnerability into Hope

Whether we acknowledge it or not, vulnerability is part of being human. But for some, vulnerability is more than trait. It is a daily reality that shapes their childhood and their opportunities for the future.

According to a 2025 report by Save the Children foundation, 19 million children across the European Union were at risk of poverty, while approximately 33% of children in Romania faced the risk of poverty or social exclusion.

Since 2002, Missio Link International Foundation has been responding to these needs through its Children at Risk department. We believe that every child deserves a chance, and that this is especially true for those growing up in vulnerable circumstances.


 The Chance to Have a Normal Childhood

Adela’s family consists of her older brother and sister and her paternal grandmother. She is not yet ten years old, and although she is not to blame for any of it, she is already bearing the consequences of the poor choices made by the adults in her life.

Her grandmother is the pillar of the family. Although life has not been easy for her, she has found the strength to be both mother and father, as well as a grandmother. Her love for her grandchildren gives her the strength to provide them with the support, care, and protection they need to grow and flourish. Adela has inherited her grandmother’s determination and strength. Despite facing difficulties of her own, Adela has made progress at school through hard work and perseverance, learning to read and write along the way.

Through our Back to School program, carried out in partnership with the ‘Constantin Păunescu’ School Center for Inclusive Education in Recaș, we help vulnerable children stay in school by providing Christian education activities, food, and essential hygiene supplies. For some families, including Adela’s, providing even the basic necessities can be a constant struggle. These hardships often lead children to miss school or, in some cases, drop out altogether.

 

The Chance for a Fresh Start

When we first met Răzvan, he was only 15 years old and facing a three-year sentence. He rejected any form of authority and shut down whenever someone tried to offer him help. His words revealed deep anger and distrust.

Răzvan’s story is one of many we encounter in our daily work at the Buziaș Educational Center, where, through our Harmony program, we work with young people who are deprived of their freedom.

Through weekly classes, we encourage these young people to embrace values that can guide them toward better choices, help them build character, and understand the importance of faith in God. We use resources such as Abstinence = Freedom, Freedom in Truth, and Choices for Freedom. The latter are accredited by the National Administration of Penitentiaries, and participation can earn them points that contribute toward a reduction in their sentences.

After more than a year of attending our classes, Răzvan has begun to open up and ask questions. His story has reminded us that change doesn’t happen overnight. Every young person carries their own struggles, disappointments, and questions. Learning to consider a different perspective on life takes time, patience, and perseverance.

 

The Chance to Build a Future

Behind the statistics about Romania’s child protection system are real stories and young hearts still holding on to hope. Nadia’s story is one of courage, ambition, and the right to dream.

Her case came to the attention of child protection authorities for a second time before she had even turned ten. The only family she has ever known is her mother and her maternal grandparents, who have always been there for her. From an early age, she tried hard not to be defined by the label of “a child in the system.” She paid close attention to her appearance and behavior and worked hard to do well in school. Through determination and ambition, she achieved good academic results.

Today, Nadia is a ninth-grade student at a high school in Timișoara, with a clear vision for her future. She hopes to attend university and build a career of her own. But her greatest dream, the one that motivates her to get up and go to school each morning, is tied to turning 18. She dreams of having a home of her own where she and her mother can live together. At an age when many teenagers look forward to birthday parties and expensive gifts, Nadia dreams of being able to provide her mother with a home and the support she needs.

At Deborah House, girls who have experienced abuse, neglect, and exploitation find safety, love, and hope. Our two homes are designed to be places of healing and new beginnings. We provide a caring, Christian family environment, counseling and psychotherapy, access to education and vocational training, as well as medical and legal assistance.

When they turn 18, each girl has the opportunity to continue her journey through our Aspirations program.

No child should have to carry the weight of their future alone. We can help make the road ahead a little easier. If you would like to be part of these stories of change, we invite you to get involved—whether by keeping these children and young people in your prayers, making a donation, or offering your time and skills as a volunteer. Together, we can help more vulnerable children and young people receive the support they need to move forward.

Donations:  https://mli.ro/doneaza/

Voluntariat: For information about volunteer opportunities and requirements, please contact us at office@mli.ro .

/by
,

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.

/by
,

A Journey with Purpose

Sometimes, a story begins with a map and a trail to follow. Other times, it begins with a purpose that turns a personal experience into an opportunity to make a difference.

From August 9–13, I had the privilege of representing Missio Link International at the Ends of the Earth Hiking event, a five-day hiking adventure in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming. It was a physical challenge, but more than that, it was an experience shaped by people, faith, community, and the way a shared purpose can carry meaning far beyond the trail.

Our partners in the United States, Ends of the Earth Adventures, organize events like these to bring together people who love adventure and want to use their passion for the outdoors to support projects that change lives. 

This year, both the cycling event in Quebec in June and the hiking event in Grand Teton supported the same cause: children and youth in vulnerable situations and the MLI programs that offer them practical support and opportunities, while also offering hope, healing, and the chance for a better future.

For five days, surrounded by breathtaking views, we embraced the rhythm of #PrayTrekRepeat, shared meaningful conversations and moments that brought us closer together. But beyond the beauty of the mountains, at the heart of these days on the trail were our prayers for the girls at 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 am grateful for the people I shared this experience with, for the beauty of the landscape that surrounded us, and for all those who asked about the message behind “Leave the 99”—a reminder of God’s relentless pursuit of those who are lost. These conversations gave us the opportunity to share His love and the Gospel. It is an experience I will carry close to my heart for years to come.

Thank you to everyone who supported this event through prayer, encouragement, and generosity. If you would like to join us in this effort, I invite you to consider making a donation. Every contribution becomes part of a journey we take together—a journey that can change lives.

– Oana Neidoni



2026 Grand Teton Backpacking Trek - Donation Page

/by
,

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