Communism complicated the lives and education of the Romanian people. Since its collapse, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has stepped up to provide life-changing education to a whole generation.
(show kids having fun at camp)
This generation grew up shortly after the collapse of communism in Romania. They didn’t experience life under a socialist government like their parents, but their lives have still been shaped by their country’s past.
Many children aren’t taught manners, morals and values, and healthy lifestyle choices at home. Their parents often don’t talk about these subjects, because they were never taught these lessons themselves.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Romania recognizes the importance of instructing this younger generation to help them live healthy, balanced lives.
“One of the main projects we have here is called ‘Etiquette’ (Eh-tee-keh-tah), which is done in about 15 schools in this region alone.”
“The project is about going into schools, to hold seminars in middle and high schools. These seminars are about how to develop fully to their human potential.”
“Hundreds of students and dozens of teachers are part of this program. They are enjoying it and very interested in continuing it.”
This program uses accredited and trained volunteers to offer educational activities, such as seminars, symposiums and forums in public schools. Some of the topics include manners and etiquette, ethics and morals, career planning, interpersonal relationships, and healthy lifestyle choices.
The first part of the program takes place in the classroom throughout the school year.
“Before we go into a classroom, the teachers warn us that the students are unruly and they might make noise, but we’ve never had that problem. Every time we go into a classroom the students are quiet and attentive. I think this is not only because we are new and they don’t know us, but also because the material we present is relevant to them.”
After the school year ends, the second part of the program takes place in the form of summer camps. A major focus of the camp is team building and lifestyle education. This camp experience has been successful in developing healthy friendships. For many, it has also sparked an interest in learning more about Jesus, especially from people who otherwise wouldn’t go to religious meetings or church programs.
“A life that is centered on values and goals is a life that has meaning. By trying to portray this to the young people, we get closer to them. Because we get closer to them, we can actually talk to them about Jesus.”
“I think the Church exists to work for others. Jesus is an example to us. We are trying to follow that example. Before we did this project, the Church was pretty much unknown. Because of the project, the Church is now well known AND admired.”
This work is benefitting a whole generation in Romania. Please pray for their efforts as they continue to reach the young people in a positive way. Pray that the lessons they teach make an everlasting difference in their lives.
