Thanksgiving in Romania

When you visit the Bread of Life orphanage you notice something different about the children there. It is something more than just their Romanian culture and language. There is a simple unspoiled innocence in how they relate to you. There is a hunger for your company. They are not saturated with attention and so they appreciate what you can give. Another thing you notice is the unbridled enthusiasm they show in worship. When they sing they really sing. When they sit for meals they really pray, thankful for the simple foods they have. Visit at Christmas and you will see children excited to open a shoebox of small gifts which most American children would consider an appetizer before the big gifts came out.

The children might forget the poverty, neglect, and filth that was their life before they came to Bread of Life but they have reminders. Many of them visit their relatives and their home village at least once a year. When they return to the orphanage they must again be treated for lice. The Bible in several places and in several ways describes a basic fact of the human heart: The person who is given or forgiven much loves much in return. Thanksgiving in Romania is not a single day or a holiday tradition. Rather, it is everyday and spontaneous. It is the voice of the orphan calling out and giving thanks to God with a grateful heart.

Thank you for your interest in Bread of Life Ministries. We have been able to accomplish a lot with the help of our supporters around the world. There is still more for us to do. Please prayerfully consider how you might help support Bread of Life as we provide support to children and families in need.

Become A Partner

Other articles you may be interested in

Four Years in the War Zone: Ukraine Ministry Report

By Eduard Panican BOL Logistic Manager • July 29, 2026
“For I was hungry and you gave me food... I was a stranger and you welcomed me...” — Matthew 25:35 ESV This past February marked four years since the war dramatically changed the lives of millions of people in Ukraine. The world’s response has shifted over time — some still remain deeply engaged, while others have found it difficult to stay connected as the conflict continues.

From Broken to Blessing: Iosif and the Meals on Wheels Ministry

By Alin Panican BOL Co-founder • July 29, 2026
Every day, elderly men and women in the Broșteni, Romania area who have no one to care for them receive a hot meal delivered right to their door. Along with the food comes a warm greeting, a listening ear, and a helping hand from Iosif, who faithfully travels nearly 15 kilometers by bicycle each day, regardless of the weather. For the elderly he visits, the meal meets a practical need, but the visit itself often means even more. It is a reminder that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten. What makes these daily visits especially meaningful is the story of the young man making them.

A Double Joy

By Alin Panican BOL Co-founder • July 29, 2026
If you have ever held a newborn in your arms, you know that few moments in life can match it. Yet the Bible tells us there is one moment that does — the moment a soul is born again. Heaven itself rejoices. Recently, I experienced two such moments in a single church service.