It Is Not About Me- Robin Duling

Today's post comes from Robin Duling from Davenport, IA. Robin was the last member to join the team and she played a key role in getting the kids engaged in the fun activities we had planned for the kids.

Ah, where to start...

I had never been on a mission trip before.  But when Tim Oloffson, from Another Child Foundation, came to thank Trinity Lutheran Church and School for their donations to the "Shoes for Orphans' Souls" mission project, I was hooked.  When he talked about VBS, relationships and sharing the Gospel, I instantly knew this was the one for me.

But it's not about me, it's about the children.  It is amazing to know how the Point of Hope Center (POH) is changing the lives of a new generation of the Romanian Gypsy community.  The children in this program range from three years old to middle school.  There are Pre-school classes and lunch.  There are Before School and After School classes for the older kids which help with public school homework in a positive learning environment.  (Most of the POH children continue school beyond the 8th grade. and are at the top of their classes).  Clean clothes, shoes, and even something as special as brushing teeth are given at POH every day.  And breakfast and lunch.  Everyone gets something good and filling to eat at least once a day.  Our team shared in that meal, and it is life changing to consider.  Many of those children may not get another meal that day.  That is extremely significant.

While we had the joy of sharing the Gospel via VBS (Jesus is our Superhero, and Fruits of the Spirit) we weren't limited to just POH.  We traveled to other towns in Romania, visiting Day Centers and small state-run group homes for orphans and their "families."  Every child we visited also received a new pair of shoes, thanks to so many of you.  (Some of these kiddos were still wearing shoes from 2 years ago).  Their delight was thankful, generous, and loving.

The heart-to-heart connections were also evident in each and every team member, as well as the staff, interpreters and volunteers at POH.  Our team shed many tears for many reasons, but love and joy was paramount.  These children who have so little, gave us back so much.  It is hard to explain unless you experience it.