Dachau Concentration Camp was a solemn reminder of how quickly a small group of individuals with bad intentions can destroy so many lives and families. Religious freedoms were taken away along with the annihilation of unpopular groups. Local people were not aware of what was taking place in their own community or at least tried to ignore what was happening.
Religious freedom in Europe has been a challenge for centuries. During our visit to Romania we learned how during the Inquisition Era that Romania maintained Religious freedom allowing Protestantism to flourish in the region. This was quite a contrast to what was happening in the rest of Europe. These Freedoms disappeared when the Communist began ruling Romania around 1947 to 1990.
Religious freedom has finally been established once again and my family was able to attend the largest 3 day Convention in Romania since the fall of the Communist party. The Convention was entitled “Do Not Give Up” and was well received by more than 40,000 Romanians that were a part of this event. Tears of joy at being able to welcome Friends from 7 countries including the United States were shared by all. To be part of such a Historical event was truly amazing. The Romanian friends were so loving and hospitable to all of the visitors from other countries.
These are the kind of events that make me appreciate the time off we get with the Sabbatical arranged by Kris and the Board of Directors. I have to thank you all for allowing us to be able to have a share in such amazing events.
Countries that had attendees: Romania, Hungary, Ukraine, Poland, Moldova, United States, Denmark
