Claudia-Cristina Povaliceanu is a PhD Student studying law in Romania.
When did you trust Christ?
At the age of 18, I was entering a stage in my life where I had to take many difficult exams, and through my younger sister, I was guided to turn to God and ask for His help. In this context, I began to attend church regularly. Having found peace of mind and warm hope in God's help, I decided to follow this path and got baptised. Since then, I have been striving daily to remain close to God, to grow in faith, and to learn more and more about His essence.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
When I was 18 years old, just when I met God, I failed the entrance exam for the Police College, which was the college I most wanted to enter at that time in my life. The results came just before water baptism. It was the first and most important test for my faith, and my sister's faith at that time. My sister confessed to me after the baptism that she did not believe that I would ever follow Jesus, as He did not help me pass the exam. The result was a shock to me, especially since I had just chosen the way of faith. Nevertheless, I chose to continue with baptism because I knew that God was sovereign over my life. After five years of law school, I discovered that God had a greater plan for my life. Through the profession he gave me, I can make a much bigger and stronger impact in the lives of the people whose causes I am invested.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
The Forum will strengthen my faith in God, I will learn more religious theory about God from professional people, and I will be able to share this new knowledge with other members of my congregation. The vision of the conference—to equip and encourage Christians while fostering collaboration across disciplines—resonates deeply with my heart and calling. I believe the teaching, fellowship, and networking opportunities will strengthen both my academic work and my witness for Christ.
What is your ministry?
I serve in various functions in my local church. I serve in the women's department and with the welcoming department. I also sing soprano in the choir.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I have wanted to participate in this event since I first heard about it. I would like to take part in meetings with Christians who have chosen to develop not only their professional skills, but also their knowledge of the Bible. Coming from Eastern Europe, the combined costs of conference fees, travel, and lodging represent a significant financial burden. Even with careful budgeting and savings, the current exchange rate and local cost of living realities make it difficult for me to cover the full amount on my own. A scholarship would make it possible for me to attend.
