A Journey of Firsts

This summer, a team from Crossing Church in Escondido, led by pastors Annie and Billy Phipps, embarked on a 16-day mission trip to Moldova with the Freedom Challenge. It was a journey marked by many firsts: the first co-ed team from their church, the first time some participants had ever shared the gospel, and the first time many Moldovan youth had experienced unconditional love and presence.

But more than anything, it was a journey of mutual transformation.

Why Moldova?

Moldova, nestled in Eastern Europe, is one of the continent’s poorest nations. The scars of Soviet rule, economic instability, and mass migration have left many children vulnerable—raised by single mothers, grandparents, or left to fend for themselves. These conditions make them easy targets for human trafficking and exploitation.

The Freedom Challenge team came not just to serve, but to see, to listen, and to love.

Camp Life: Where Walls Came Down

The team partnered with OM Moldova to serve at a youth camp for children from local day centers. These centers provide year-round support—meals, Bible teaching, and community—for kids living in difficult circumstances.

At first glance, the campers looked like any group of teens: stylish clothes, cell phones, laughter. But as the days unfolded, deeper stories emerged.

Billy shared how many boys arrived with hardened exteriors, reluctant to engage. By the end of the week, those same boys were crying, hugging, and receiving love—perhaps for the first time in their lives.

“You can be strong and still feel love.” – Billy Phipps

The Power of Presence

Annie recounted a moment that will stay with her forever. After visiting the home of a young girl whose grandfather refused to engage, Annie turned to leave. The girl stood at the gate, hesitant. Annie opened her arms—and the girl ran into them, holding on tightly.

“I won’t forget her. I won’t forget that hug.” – Annie Phipps

These moments—simple, tender, human—are what make mission work transformative. They remind us that being present is often the most powerful gift we can offer.

Gospel Encounters

The team didn’t just play games and lead crafts—they shared their stories and the gospel. Billy told of a grandmother who had walked past a crucifix in her village square for years, never knowing who it depicted. Through a translator, he explained that it was Jesus, who gave His life for her.

“She didn’t even know who was on the cross. That stunned me.” – Billy

Another team member, Ava, realized she had never shared the gospel back home. Moldova awakened her to the Great Commission—and she returned determined to live it out in her own neighborhood.

Seeing the Whole Picture

The contrast between camp life and home visits was stark. Kids who seemed carefree at camp were living in cramped, crumbling apartments—sometimes with alcoholic parents or no parents at all. One father, raising his children alone after his wife left, welcomed the team with pride and gratitude.

“God is always working—even in the most unexpected places.” – Annie

What Made These Kids Vulnerable?

Economic hardship and lack of opportunity
Absent or addicted parents
Cultural stoicism, especially among boys
False promises from traffickers offering escape

The team saw firsthand how traffickers exploit these vulnerabilities, offering what seems like a better life—but leads to bondage.

Transformation Goes Both Ways

This trip wasn’t just about helping others. It was about being changed.

Team members discovered new anointings and gifts.
Relationships deepened through shared purpose.
Hearts were softened, stirred, and renewed.

“There’s a power that happens when you actually see it, feel it, touch it.” – Billy

Final Reflections

This mission trip to Moldova was a vivid reminder that freedom begins with presence. Whether it’s a hug at a gate, a shared story, or a simple craft, every act of love matters.

And sometimes, the most profound freedom is found in the eyes of a child.

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Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/MRI6Ps--NsM

Listen to the Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/842389/episodes/17660613

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Want to learn more?
The Freedom Challenge US: thefreedomchallenge.com
Operation Mobilization USA: omusa.org
Instagram: @freedomchallengeusa / Facebook: @thefcusa

Eyes of a Child