First Baptist Rockport has sent mission teams internationally to England, India, Honduras, Africa, Romania, and other destinations to build relationships seeking opportunities to spread the Gospel. Since 2015 much of the effort has been in Romania working with Stepping Forward Ministries. Our own Phil and Rhonda Barnes have gone to serve as missionaries there. Stepping Forward Ministries own and manage Camp Living Waters, remotely located in the Carpathian Mountains. Cabins and various other structures such as a kitchen, meeting hall, recreation center have electricity (solar), running water and sanitation facilities.
Camp Living Waters host camps during the summer, providing activities such as football (soccer), games, hiking, water games. Daily Bible classes and worship round out the activities. Each child receives a gift bag with hygiene products, toys, and school supplies at the end of the week.
Campers who are able to attend this free camp not only come from the local villages but also the orphanages in Urziceni. These orphans come from abusive situations and are “given” to the Romanian Government. Because of this, many of the children are in survival mode. It is common to sense distrust in the motives of those trying to build relationships. They show outbursts of anger and frustration toward each other.
Pitulicea has a small congregation of worshippers. Our mission teams have a special relationship with Pastor Marion and his wife, Coco. Their daughter Maria goes to serve as an interpreter at Camp Living Waters.
Our church has sent at least eight people every year to the Camp for at least one week. In the coming years, FBCR hopes to maintain its involvement and perhaps send construction teams to help build and maintain the buildings the Autumn and Spring. If you would like to become involved please contact the Serve team via the church office.
