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 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.
