Struggle to Strength

Cristina and her family find strength in Jesus through Mission Without Borders sponsorships program. 

Sponsor a Family today

"I found myself drifting away from him and life became difficult.”

Navigating the journey of parenthood is already a formidable task, but for those grappling with poverty, the burden can be overwhelming. The relentless worry about putting food on the table or keeping the lights on adds an extra layer of stress that weighs heavily on families. During these struggles, many parents persevere, enduring the constant strain without realizing that there is a wellspring of strength and solace available to them through faith.

Cristina Fita, a resilient 43-year-old from Romania, knows this struggle intimately. Poverty has been a persistent companion throughout her life, casting a shadow over her daily existence. During times of doubt and questioning, when her faith wavered and uncertainty clouded her mind, she found herself grappling alone with her inner turmoil.

“I committed my life to God two decades ago, but as time went on, I found myself drifting away from him and life became difficult,” she said.

Together with her husband Achim, aged 46, Cristina faced the harsh reality of their living conditions. Their modest abode, a cramped one-room structure, seemed barely more than a collection of makeshift walls, patched together with bits of wood, bricks, and earth. Situated in isolation within a field, their dwelling provided only the most basic shelter for their family.

Cristina said, “We’ve had our fair share of challenges. Not having enough – and going through times of poor health – has been a part of our lives.”

When Cristina’s family was enrolled on Mission Without Borders’s family sponsorship program, it wasn’t just the regular material help that the family needed. Cristina also felt a great need of spiritual support to help resolve her confusion and unanswered questions.

“No one in my immediate family has ever been a born-again Christian, so I didn't have anyone to confide in about my feelings or questions, especially because talking about feelings wasn’t really encouraged in our family or even in our culture in general. I yearned for someone to talk to,” she said.

Each family enrolled in MWB's family sponsorship program benefits from consistent visits by a dedicated family coordinator. In Cristina's situation, this role was fulfilled by Nicu, a devoted Christian staff member who gladly embraced the opportunity to share his faith with her.


                                                                                     Continue reading below...

At last Cristina had someone to talk to – and her faith went from strength to strength. She said, “I truly cherish the moments when Nicu visits, allowing us to talk and share our prayers. Lots of questions I wanted to ask are addressed, my fears are dispelled, and I find so much happiness.”

Cristina and Achim and their children were also all invited to various Christian meetings at the local church that MWB partner with. Here they found a Christian community and a place to talk to others where they learnt more about Jesus.

“I’ve decided to follow Jesus for the rest of my life. There are no words to describe the overwhelming peace and joy I have,” Cristina said. “In the past, I used to frequently lose my temper when things didn't go as planned and I was often in a bad mood. However, now my family gets to experience a different side of me, one that remains calmer and better at controlling my emotions.”

In the interim, thanks to MWB's assistance, the family has seen a notable improvement in their living standards. Additionally, they've received invaluable educational support for their children, paving the way for promising career opportunities down the road.

Nicu said, “I’m happy to notice the peace that Cristina and her family now experience. It relieves those emotional burdens that come with everyday stresses and worries. The family has found guidance, hope, forgiveness, and a social network they can rely on during hard times.”

Cristina’s youngest child, Iosif, has also been inspired. He said, “When I grow up, I want to follow God just like my mother.”

When you choose to sponsor a family through Mission Without Borders, you're not only extending practical aid in their struggle against poverty; you're also providing crucial emotional and spiritual backing. If you're curious about sponsoring a family and want to learn more, explore our sponsorship pages or reach out to our office today. Together, let's create positive change and impact the lives of those in need!

 

Sponsor a Family today

EXPLORE OUR STORIES

Join thousands of Kiwis and stay in touch with us. Hear about our news, appeals and updates.

Help transform lives and bring hope for the future

To donate via internet banking, our ANZ account number is 06-0185-0122206-12 or call us on 0800 469 269, THANK YOU!