As the 320 people left the packed theater at the Vitan Mall in downtown Bucharest on May 30, the most frequently heard word was “emotional.” Some of our friends had traveled three hours to be there. They represented all walks of life, but they had one thing in common. They wanted to understand a little better their family, friends and co-workers who are members of the Church. This unique showing of Meet the Mormons, professionally dubbed in Romanian, provided a comfortable, non-threatening way for them to learn about who we are. Of the 15 million stories that could have been told, the six vignettes selected by the film producers were masterfully crafted and presented to create a powerful experience that captured the hearts of these people.
This success followed months of preparation and many miracles. The dubbing was completed in record time. Choice theaters were secured in key cities. Technical details were solved. The fact that we were even able to make the showings was a miracle as all of the other languages scheduled for the rest of 2015 were postponed.
Perhaps the most significant learning from this journey is the power of inviting as the Savior did, “one by one.” People were excited and committed to come after they felt a personal connection in a conversation with a member or missionary. It became personal, just like the experience they had at the theater. Not only had they been given an opportunity to meet a Mormon, a friendship had been created or strengthened, something that will last much longer than the memory of the movie.
On Saturday, 27 June, Meet the Mormons will be shown in all 20 of our meeting houses in the two countries in Romanian, Russian and English. We are expecting that over a thousand people will share this experience. There have been lots of details to think about, but it will all be worth it, if even one person has a great experience and if a few bridges can be built.
On Saturday, 27 June, Meet the Mormons will be shown in all 20 of our meeting houses in the two countries in Romanian, Russian and English. We are expecting that over a thousand people will share this experience. There have been lots of details to think about, but it will all be worth it, if even one person has a great experience and if a few bridges can be built.