Life Change Through Faith

Searching for support somewhere

As a mother of five, Victoria was in a vulnerable position. She had children to feed and look after, and she found herself alone, with no support. Her husband had gone abroad to find work, but hadn’t provided any support to the family for some time now.

In many parts of Moldova, employment opportunities are few and far between, and it is common for people to seek work abroad. As a result, families such as Victoria’s are separated, with children missing one or both parents, and the left-behind parent or grandparents often struggling to cope.

A neighbor, knowing that Mission Without Borders helped people in the village, invited one of our staff to visit Victoria. When Ion arrived, Victoria explained how difficult it was to manage alone with her children. They were living in a cramped, old house, sharing one room, struggling with poor living conditions.

Ion suggested that Victoria’s children be enrolled on our child sponsorship program – and the family began receiving regular support.

Finding connection at 'the little house'

One Saturday evening, after feeding her children, Victoria received a call from a neighbor inviting her to join them at ‘the little house’, their church. Victoria had low expectations for the service, but she was pleasantly surprised.

Soon afterwards, however, her family faced challenges that made it difficult to attend church regularly. She slowly felt herself drifting away from God.

One night, in what Victoria describes as the darkest moment of her life, their house caught fire. Victoria and her children were inside, fast asleep. She shudders at the thought of what could have happened if not for God’s protection. Somehow, she and the children woke up and none of them were hurt.

She said, “I realized that without the Lord’s help, a true disaster could have unfolded.

Victoria with Ina, MWB's Emotional Support Coordinator in Moldova

”The women’s meetings have been organized regularly since Mission Without Borders first started working in the village where Victoria lives. These gatherings create a safe and welcoming environment where women feel comfortable opening up to one another and sharing their thoughts and emotions.

Ina said, “I am so happy for every woman who comes to the meetings, as if they were my own sisters by blood.

“Here, they make deep soul connections with friends and they’re able to share their sorrows and their happiness with them. And most importantly, in this place, they have personal time with our Creator.”

The women face common struggles, such as broken relationships within their families and a lack of well-paid job opportunities. Some of them experience humiliation and mistreatment by their husbands. The regular fellowship at the meetings gives them the strength and support they need to face their everyday challenges.

Victoria said, “Ina was always there for me. I felt like I could tell her everything, and I’m so happy I met her.”

In time, Victoria began to consider baptism, but fear held her back. “What will people say? What will my neighbors think?" These thoughts swirled around in her mind, but finally, she made the decision to be baptized.

“That day, I felt the true peace I had been searching for my entire life,” Victoria said, her eyes welling up with emotion. “Meeting the Lord, and my journey towards faith, have been nothing short of wonderful."

When she shared her desire to be baptized with Sister Ina, they both cried tears of joy. “Her response showed me that my life really matters to her,” Victoria said.

Receiving support from Mission Without Borders has been a great encouragement to the whole family, including Victoria’s husband, back at home from working abroad. They began attending church, and the children joined the Kids' Club. At the club, they learn Bible lessons, sing songs, and spend quality time engaging in fun activities with other children. Victoria prays that her entire family will come to follow Jesus too.

Victoria’s husband has been supportive of her, standing by her side through all her spiritual decisions. Although it's challenging to attend church regularly with five children, her husband does all he can to help her go.

Victoria’s commitment to her faith is unwavering. She knows the path she has chosen – the narrow road that leads to eternal life with Jesus, her Saviour – and she is determined never to stray from it again.

“I don’t want to live even one more day without Christ,” Victoria said. “The decision to be baptized and follow Jesus is the best decision of my life.”

When you sponsor through Mission Without Borders, the impact is felt by the whole family. Sponsor a family today – and help more people living in poverty discover the God who cares for them.