by Raelene Harris
Growing up, my siblings and I were adopted, which opened our eyes to the incredible blessing of not only being saved from physical death through adoption but also being saved from spiritual death through Christ. As I’ve matured, this understanding of being adopted into God’s family has fueled my understanding that we have received an incredible gift of salvation, and therefore, are all called to live out the Great Commission.
Initially, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Slovakia. It wasn’t a place that I automatically associated with missions, but God transformed my heart, revealing the deep spiritual need there and showing me how He is moving in Slovakia.
SON focuses on countries where Christianity and the local church are fading due to past Soviet oppression. We saw the impact firsthand—one Soviet tactic was to build prisons next to churches. Pastor Daniel, who we worked with, shared how his grandfather, also a pastor, was threatened with death for ministering to the youth. Despite the danger, he continued his work, and now Daniel and his wife, Tatiana, carry on that legacy by pastoring their local church and partnering with SON to spread the Gospel in Ružomberok.
During our week at English Bible Camp, we reached children and families who wouldn’t normally come to church. Parents sent their kids to learn English from native speakers, but in doing so, the children also learned the Gospel. This year’s theme was about trusting God in different areas of life, using Moses’ story. We explored lessons like trusting God in danger, when we make mistakes, when we feel unworthy, and when we need help.
The camp included crafts and music to reinforce these lessons. Kids made baskets and pompom sheep, symbolizing God’s protection and Moses’ role as a shepherd, and created sun catchers representing the Burning Bush. They also learned songs like “Jesus Loves Me” and “There is Power in the Name of Jesus.” It was amazing to hear these children, many hearing about Jesus for the first time, singing about His power. Our prayer is that these truths will stay with them for years to come.
There was a moment at the end of the camp when we celebrated the week with a closing program where the kids presented skits and songs, showcasing what they had learned. Parents, siblings, and grandparents were all in attendance. As the children were sharing the Gospel through their presentations and singing “Jesus Loves Me”, the parents hearts were moved- there was not a dry eye in the room. It was so clear that God was moving in the hearts of the children and families in Ružomberok.
Through these relationships and planting seeds of the Gospel, God gave me a heart for the spiritual orphans in Europe. We’ve all been given the treasure of salvation—how can we not share it? Whether it’s across the world or across the pew, God calls us all to be part of making disciples of all nations.