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last updated on
06/06/2011 11:03:10 AM |
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As
the leader of a group, it was very refreshing to be with an
organization that is so orderly and accommodating.
the meaning of “being good stewards” with what they have been given.
It was great to learn about The Salonta Project and how these
run down, communist era buildings would be used for the kingdom of
God. It was exciting to hear the plans for the disabled children’s
center and the center for the elderly and see the project start to
take shape. As a business major, my perspective of what I can do for
the Kingdom was impacted. With just a little creativity and hard
work, Smiles is supporting the community in Salonta and providing a
safe haven for the disabled and elderly. I am reminded of the verse
in 1 John 3 that states, “let us not love in word or tongue, but in
deeds and in truth.” I can’t wait to see the many projects that
Smiles is involved with come to fruition. I’m proud to say I was a
part of them! 
Going
to Romania was a wonderful experience. I enjoyed it very much. My
favorite part was going on the family visits with the social workers.
Seeing the families in Romania left a lasting impression on my heart.
Many of the families, especially those who were Christian, had such
joy in the midst of what may not be the best situation. It was such a
delight to be able to bring food and other necessities to these
families and to be able to pray with them. It never ceases to amaze me
how prayer can join people together, even if we can not understand
each others language. I definitely enjoyed my time in Romania! -
Emily Goodroe, 12th grader
Romania.
My trip to Romania was like nothing I have ever experienced before.
The thing that changed my perspective on life the most was the
boldness of some of the gypsies for the Lord. One lady that I had the
privilege of meeting was a lady who still lived in her caravan trailer
and read her Bible aloud everyday. She did it so her neighbors would
hear the word of God. Even though one of her neighbors despises her
for it, the other neighbor family became Christians because of it.
This lady has inspired me to be more vocal in my faith even in the
midst of other people telling me that is wrong. 
For
the past 4 years, Bethany Christian School has taken its annual
mission trip to Costa Rica. This year, our principal (Mrs. Carolyn
DeSalvo), felt the Lord leading her to take the team to Romania. We
knew nothing of the Smiles Foundation – only that there would be
different projects to work on every day. These projects were life
changing for the students and chaperones. From delivering food to
gypsy families, to painting containers that would be turned into homes
for the homeless, to hosting an elderly luncheon, to putting on VBS
camps – each day was packed full! One experience that really touched
my heart was one of the families to whom we delivered food. At the
end of our visit, we all gathered in a circle and began to pray for
the family, one at a time. The grandfather had a tumor on his brain
and needed a miracle. When we finished praying, there was not a dry
eye in the house! The Lord truly touched every heart there. The
stories could go on and on. A BIG thanks to all of the Smiles
social workers, and especially Mr. Kevin – we will never be the same.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and selflessness for the sake
of the Kingdom. God bless you! 