“The Resurrection of Jesus is...a symbol of hope...I don't see how you can show love...without being in solidarity with the victims of this world.”
Today we set out into the Oradea community for the first time as a whole group. Accompanied by Smiles Foundation staff and interpreters (graduate students of psychology at University of Oradea), we split into four teams.
One team visited a youth center where we had the opportunity to show love by listening to teens, playing games with kids, and hanging out with children of all ages who rarely have the opportunity to play because of the constant demand that cooking, cleaning and child care typically place on their young lives.
Another two teams visited families who are supported by Smiles Foundation. These under resourced families face an array of financial, emotional, physical, and social difficulties that preoccupy their time and energy. They graciously invited us into their homes and shared their lives for a brief time.
The last team went to an innovative community for the homeless. Smiles Foundation converted several metal shipping containers as shelter for homeless men, women and families. We provided group and individual counseling for the beneficiaries at the homeless container village who face homelessness for a variety of reasons.
In all our interactions, we are keenly aware of the impact that chronic trauma has on people's lives. We take opportunity to show love through our solidarity with them and pray that God's presence brings hope.
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