Roma’s Story: A Child’s Heart Open to God
8.29.2025
Recently, a children’s Bible camp was held at the Reimer Center in Zaporizhzhia, a city just 30 kilometers from the front line of war in Ukraine. In a place where the echoes of shelling are heard daily, the camp became a refuge of joy, games, and friendship for boys and girls longing to escape the constant weight of fear and uncertainty.
Among the children was Roma—a boy whose energy, openness, and eagerness to serve stood out from the very beginning. Every moment of camp was precious to him. He listened attentively to Bible stories, played every game with enthusiasm, and was quick to help counselors and encourage other children. For Roma, the camp wasn’t simply recreation—it was a place where he felt protected, needed, and deeply happy.
The most powerful moment came after camp had ended. On Sunday, when the local church gathered for worship at Mission Eurasia’s Reimer Center, Roma surprised everyone by asking to attend. Volunteers explained that the service was geared toward adults and wouldn’t have a children’s program. His response was simple yet profound:
“I don’t care… I just want to be in church.”
These words revealed how deeply God had touched Roma’s heart. Camp had not only given him joy and belonging, it had awakened a spiritual hunger. Roma had encountered God’s presence and love, and he wanted more.
Throughout the camp, Roma’s character shone. He was the first to lend a hand when something needed to be carried, set up, or cleaned. He encouraged younger children who were shy about participating in games, and he noticed needs even before adults did—stepping in quietly and faithfully to help.
Despite his young age, Roma carried himself with a maturity and responsibility that inspired those around him. His willingness to serve with joy and sincerity became a living testimony to the truth that children, too, can be powerful examples of faith and love.
Roma’s story is a reminder of why Mission Eurasia continues to invest in children’s Bible camps across Eurasia—even in war-torn regions like Zaporizhzhia. In places marked by trauma, fear, and loss, these camps create space for healing, discovery, and spiritual growth.
But this impact is only possible because of faithful partners who give consistently. When you become a Kingdom Builder, your monthly support provides children like Roma with the chance to encounter God’s love, find hope in the middle of war, and grow into leaders who can transform their communities for Christ.