From September 18–20, 2026, approximately 70 women gathered in Zimți, Lăpușna, for the Fall Convention of the Women’s Ministries Department of the South Transylvania Conference. The theme, “When Love Protects,” invited us to honestly consider an important question: What does love look like when someone needs to be heard, respected, and helped?
The seminars brought together the perspectives of care and protection. Simona Anca, a psychologist and occupational therapist, spoke about moving from control to healthy boundaries, about forms of violence that can remain unseen, and about how the church can better understand trauma.
Dana Bordeianu, an attorney, addressed recognizing violence against women and how knowing our rights can become concrete protection. Attention was also given to children, people with disabilities, and the elderly, whose needs and vulnerabilities call for the same level of care.
The case studies provided space for questions and practical discussions. Together, we reflected on signs that we may overlook, on how we listen to a person who is suffering, and on the importance of guiding them toward appropriate help. It was a time of learning that reminded us that good intentions need discernment and action.
The evening and morning devotionals, presented by Liliana Radu, placed these concerns in the light of passages from 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 and Ruth 2:12. The words of Scripture directed our thoughts toward a patient love that does not seek its own interests, and toward the God under whose wings we can find refuge. Alongside the devotionals, the seminar “What Is My Place in Ministry?”, prepared by Associate Professor Dr. Eliza Spătărelu of Adventus University, was also presented. The question in the title invited us to consider how we can put care for others into practice, each of us, where we are.
Imola Zakarias, director of the Women’s Ministries Department of the South Transylvania Conference, and the organizing team were exceptionally attentive hosts. The icebreaker activities, music, carefully prepared and delicious food, materials and small gifts, as well as the evening spent around the campfire with s'mores, created space for friendship and joy. Szallos F. Greti supported us throughout the gathering with translation, allowing everyone to follow along and participate. There were smiles, but also tears—the sign of conversations that touched deep places.
We left Lăpușna with greater knowledge and a clearer sense of responsibility. When love protects, it listens without judging, respects boundaries, notices suffering, and seeks help for those who are vulnerable. We pray that what we learned during these days will be reflected in our families, churches, and communities. Every woman deserves to know: You are seen, you are loved, you are not alone.