From June 5-7, 2026, approximately 200 participants—representing families from all six regional conferences of Romanian Union Conference—gathered in Stupini, Romania, for the Adventist Family Congress. Organized by the Family Ministry Department of the Romanian Union Conference in collaboration with Family Ministry directors from the six regional conferences, the event was held under the theme, “The Emotional Health of the Adventist Family in Romania”.
The congress sought to celebrate the gift of family, encourage spiritual renewal, and equip Adventist families with practical tools for addressing contemporary challenges while building emotional resilience and stronger relationships.
A Weekend of Worship, Fellowship, and Learning
The weekend began on Friday evening with a devotional program, which was followed by fellowship activities that encouraged participants to connect in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A dedicated children’s program simultaneously ran during the event, allowing attendees of all ages to fully take part in the congress.
The Sabbath worship service featured Roberto Iannò, Family Ministry director for the Inter-European Division (EUD), as the key speaker. His presentation focused on emotional resilience, highlighting that healthy Christian homes are not defined by the absence of difficulties, but by their ability to find meaning, grow through adversity, and support one another with compassion and encouragement. His messages emphasized the importance of Christ-centered homes and encouraged families to cultivate healthy relationships that reflect God’s love while remaining actively engaged in the Church’s mission.
Addressing Today’s Family Challenges
Recognizing the realities facing modern families, the congress included a series of practical seminars presented by experienced professionals.
Pastor Felix Musat, a licensed psychologist, led the seminar “When the Mouth Tells a Different Story than the Heart”, focusing on communication patterns that often create misunderstanding and emotional distance within marriage.
Psychiatrist Dr. Loredana Catrinescu presented “Screen Exposure – implications”, exploring the effects of digital technology on emotional well-being, child development, and family relationships.
Couples also participated in an interactive workshop led by psychiatrist Dr. Lavinia Profir entitled “I Miss Us – I’m Tired of All the Fighting”, where they explored practical strategies for restoring emotional connection, improving communication, and managing conflict in healthy ways.
Strengthening Families for Ministry
Beyond encouraging individual families, the congress highlighted the vital role of emotionally healthy homes in advancing the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
“Healthy families are not only a blessing for the Church but also one of its strongest missionary resources. Through this Congress, we wanted to encourage, equip, and inspire families to grow spiritually, emotionally, and relationally, so they can become authentic witnesses of Christ in their homes, churches, and communities,” said Marius Andrei, Family Ministry director of the Romanian Union Conference.
Participant feedback reflected the positive impact of the weekend. Many appreciated Pastor Roberto Iannò’s presentations, as well as the Friday evening fellowship gathering and the interactive format of the seminars. Others noted that every presentation addressed relevant issues and provided practical guidance for everyday family life.
The Family Ministry Department of the Romania Union Conference will continue investing in the spiritual and relational growth of Adventist families through leadership training for the local Family Ministry Department leaders, family and couples’ retreat, and educational initiatives that address the challenges faced by today’s homes. Their ongoing programs aim to strengthen marriages, foster resilient families, and prepare them to serve as center of hope and mission throughout Romania.
