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Bart’s summary of the day: Wednesday 24th June

Sami and Cornelia picked us up from the church in Brasov this morning. Both parties went to buy things for the club such as paints and table coverings. We were then driven to Holbav and met with Anna and her husband, who were kind and fed us lunch. They both are partners with Sami and Cornelia’s project with the children. Some of the materials were put into the church where the kids’ club will be held. We then were driven most of the way into the mountains by Sami and Cornelia and walked the rest of the way to two of the families that live up in the hills. (on the other side of the valley from the ones we visited last year). We made it up the hill carrying bags and boxes of provisions! They were all very happy to see us and proudly showed us their pigs! One family introduced us to their donkey, which they use to fetch water in two large milk churns. The older daughter fetched the water while we were there, which took about half an hour.

Simon gave impromptu talks at both houses, to all the children and their parents. Encouragingly both fathers (who were brothers) stayed present during our visit, when Sami told us fathers frequently hide. It’s astounding how they live! They appeared happy and welcoming though, which made me reflect on my life and attitudes!

Supper was spent with Sami and Cornelia at their house. We spent the evening preparing for the first day of the kids’ club, which involved making an Ark of the Covenant!

Simon’s reflection

What a privilege to have the opportunity to speak to these two families. Talking about praising a God who is bigger than our doubts and then about how God is always with us in every storm – I was humbled to see the joy of the Lord radiating from their faces. These children are inspiring with their energy, life and willingness to help. I have been to this part of Romania so many times but the beauty of the land and the people never fail to take my breath away.

And how joyful to know every family has their own pig – a gift from a Swiss friend of Sami & Cornelia. Each family has opportunity to nurture their pig, before it becomes the main food that sustains them right through the long winter!

And as we begin this mission I am learning the importance of fully leaning on God.

Peter’s Reflection

Be stong and couragious … and prepared! 2 walk climbs, and I left my inhaler behind on both occassions!

1) beautiful views of God’s creation in the Brasov U shaped Scheiu valley.

2) Hidden from sight, the Village of Holbav, with old and family built housing (which looks as though it was extended as the family grew, but still no running water). Very simple division of 2 rooms both double use for sleeping, and one was the kitchen, and the other a living room. Could I live there as a family of 4? I’m not sure. Their cousins lived a bit further up the hill with one building for living and sleeping, and the other for the kitchen (no comments about my cooking skills setting of fire alarms, due to boiling veg to fast please), but may be worth considering if I ever go off grid!

‘Family’ ties seem strong, in that they help each other out. While there one daughter helped by taking the donkey to the spring (about 20 minutes away) to fill up 2 metal water containers (for drinking and usual ablutions and house stuff). Would I be worried if my daughter had this as one of her chores as there was no mains water – probably. Alex (about 8 years old) seemed to be in most places, including in with the family’s Christmas pigs when we saw them.
Rasnov fort was under refurbishment, so we climbed up the footpath (or twisted outdoor staircase) and back down after seeing the beauty of Gods Creation from another staging point.

Cameron’s reflection

Waking up today, I was not sure what to expect. Just yesterday I was in a place I had been my whole life since I was born, nothing short of comfort and familiarity. And yet today I arose early for the start of a new perspective.

We stopped to the church in the small village of Holbav where we delivered the craft items, ready for the coming week. The atmosphere held a sense of joy, and love, and the Lords peace filled the air and it was inspiring. To picture the 70 kids we’d be teaching all fitting into that room, filling it with life. It is only day 1 and though we have a plan for this coming week, I am not sure I am prepared, or if it is possible to be prepared without being overwhelmed by the Spirit. What a blessing the opportunity of this mission is.

To be a part of something so much bigger than myself, but serving to not just God, but the people of Romania. More inspiring was the old couple who welcomed us in with coffee and food of their culture. With no understanding of each other, smiles and greetings felt warm and welcoming. To share food special to them, with strangers from another land. It reminds me that God, and the Holy Spirit, is much more than, and does not belong to, just me, or to Cosham Baptist Church, or to Portsmouth. But worldwide as the creator of the earth should be. And though Sami and Cornelia were present for translation, you could argue it was not needed as there was an “understanding” between us all- Love and connection. Important teachings of Jesus.

How humbling it was then to deliver food for 2 families further up the mountain. Families who lived off the land as God intended, raising their own animals, even travelling to collect water from the spring. It was so different to what we are used to, however it felt natural or in other words “right”. An honourable and otherwise joy-filled life of hard work and family. It makes me wonder if we live today as the rich that Jesus spoke about, filling our stomachs and enjoying the comforts of an “easy” life…
The day is coming to an end and I am filled with excitement and inspiration for tomorrows first day of children’s camp in the church of Holbav. I welcome all experiences and lessons that the Lord wishes to teach me, and I pray the witnesses to this trip may be filled with equal inspiration. Gods peace be with you all