If you've heard us talk about Romania and especially how we came to be called here full time, you've probably heard us talk about our special girl Elena. We met her for the first time at summer camp in 2008 and she made a lasting impression on us.
It was on the long hike to the monastery in the background that we really got to know each other and when she said for the first time that she wished she had a father like me. My heart melted and I knew we had a special bond.
Later that night we talked more about her life and her past and we shared about ourselves too. She said that she wished that she had parents like us because her Mom took advantage of her and it was so bad there that she ran away to the orphanage. She had never known unconditional love but we were happy to offer her our love.
After camp we kept in contact with Elena through H2H staff. She was one of the main kids that God used to tell us that we should work here full time. We had the thought in mind that if we could build such a strong relationship in one week then how much more could we do for a longer period of time?
When we got here we tried to see Elena whenever we had the chance and eventually were able to work with her full time when we started working in her town.
We enjoyed going to her Christmas programs and being there for her like the parents she never had.
Elena entered into the girls transition program this year and had a great time learning life and job skills. We got to spend time together and do fun things like an Easter egg hunt.
We also got to see Elena at church every Sunday. She has always liked going to church and loves to sing. But this year she grew closer to God and decided to be baptized, praise God!
Here is Elena reading the Bible with Florin, who was baptized a few years ago.
At the baptism she shared one of her favorite Bible passages.
Even though we knew about her baptism and we had talked about it before she called us up to formally invite us. She wanted us to be there for her like always and we were happy to oblige.
We are so proud of Elena for making this decision and taking this stand in a world that is trying more and more to push God out. We pray that she will be an example to others and that God will use her in big ways. Thank you to all who prayed for her and the kids that we work with here. God is working among them and we are privileged to see some of the fruit of all of our labor.
2 comments:
Such a neat post. Thank you guys for sharing all your stories and your life in Romania. Praise God for Elena and countless others who God has big plans for! We think of you often!
While we were in Romania, I learned here side of the story...but I didn't know your side of the story. Your story is beautiful and I am so thankful for your part in her conversion. You and Rebecca are a blessing to many!!!
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