In Loving Memory
Mariana Petersel
The Village of Hope Romania · 1947–2026
September 15, 2026
Earlier this month, we shared with you the extraordinary life and legacy of our beloved Executive Director, Mariana Petersel.
For more than five decades, Mariana gave her life to serving Romania’s most vulnerable children and families. For nearly thirty years, she faithfully served alongside The Village of Hope Romania, becoming the heart of our ministry and a mother, grandmother, protector, mentor, and safe place to countless children.
While we deeply feel her absence, Mariana’s work is not finished. It continues every time a hungry child receives food, every time a frightened family finds help, every time a child is protected from abuse or trafficking, and every time a young person discovers that their circumstances do not have to determine their future.
As we move forward without Mariana, we are committed to protecting the ministry she spent her life building. Our quarterly operating need is $80,000, and your partnership will help us continue serving the children and families she loved so dearly.
Would you prayerfully consider making a special gift in Mariana’s memory?
The greatest way we can honor Mariana is to continue the work she loved.
Honor Her Legacy
Legacy Builder Circle
20 families giving $1,000
▸ Help provide needed leadership, staffing, and operational support to sustain the ministry Mariana devoted her life to.
Hope Sustainer Circle
80 friends giving $500
▸ Help provide food, clothing, medical care, educational support, and crisis intervention for vulnerable children and families.
Light Bearer Circle
160 partners giving $250
▸ Help The Village of Hope Romania continue to reach children with practical care, hope, and the love of Christ for generations to come.
Thank you for carrying her legacy forward—one child, one family, and one life at a time.
With gratitude,
Debby Gass
CEO
The Village of Hope Romania
Laura
Director – Donor Relations / Program Development
