Last summer seems like a lifetime behind us (especially after such a cruel winter) – so it’s a bit wild to think that the journey that started way back then, during a Muskoka Woods CADENCE session, is finally ready to take flight! We are thankful and excited that each of these May Team members accepted that invitation to join us in our mission to value, disciple and develop Romanian orphans to grow in character and influence in their world. The corollary to that invitation (surprise!) was a challenge: to commit themselves purposefully to a “season of discipleship” in the context of honest community with each other, their team leaders (Mike & Tina Barlow), and us at Impact Romania/Pas Cu Pas. And so we enter the next phase of that challenge!
These last few months have been about preparing to learn, serve, and love well during our ministry in Romania… and on May 6, our opportunity to put this into action finally comes!
In partnership with Pas Cu Pas, we’ll participate in several aspects of Impact Romania’s Orphan Outreach & Integration programs. Perhaps our most significant opportunity for ministry will be through “Mini-Camps” – weekend retreats focused on experiential-learning and relationship-building. Hosted outside the city, we’ll invite small numbers of children & teens from the group and foster homes we work with for a weekend of fun, physical fitness, resiliency-building activities, and quality time that helps grow and emphasize the relationships these children have with Pas Cu Pas. The May Team will help lead two different mini-camps during our time in Romania.
The purpose (and promise) of this trip, however, extends beyond just program. So in the midst of all that we’ll “do” (work, play, eat, talk, and more), we must always keep in mind why we are in Romania: to serve Pas Cu Pas; to better understand issues facing Romanian orphans; to show love and compassion to all whom we encounter; and, ultimately, to participate in God’s healing and restorative work in Romania! Please pray that we would be effective in this.
We’ll be posting photos and updates here along the way, so make sure to check back. But for now… see you later this month!
Jenilee (on behalf of the team)
