BUCHAREST, Romania — An estimated 65 young single adults in the Romania Bucharest Mission gathered in the new Bucharest meetinghouse for a conference here Jan. 12-14 — spending valuable time together, studying the gospel and participating in community service.

"Many of these young people have founded the Church in their communities," said mission president George K. Jarvis. "They are pioneers. I wanted them to get to know each other and form close friendships. Every young member needs a young friend."

Participants said the most memorable part of the young single adults conference, the first of its kind in Bucharest, included donating blood to the local blood bank and spending time at a local orphanage.

"The children came jumping into our laps and arms; they were smiling and happy because someone showed them attention," said Cristina Voaides, a 19-year-old member from the Brasov Branch.

Nurses, doctors and teachers were astonished to see such a large group of young people serving others for nothing, added Ilie Mandoiu, 23, one of the conference organizers.

Participants at the blood drive received food credits from the National Institute of Hematology and Transfusions. They were used to purchase food to help a home for the elderly. "When the doctors heard that we did not want any remuneration for our blood, they were amazed. They persuaded us to accept the credits and to donate the food to an asylum," said Mihaela Stan, 23, a conference organizer.

Also during the conference, humanitarian service missionaries, John and Marlene Jex, presented a workshop on employment. Under their direction, missionaries also presented a health fair and a puppet show about the dangers of tobacco and alcohol use.

"I think we did something special here," said Iuliana Andreiu, 20, from Bucuresti Sector 3. "We brought a ray of light and love, a small change in a crowded, agitated, and busy Bucharest, that has the inclination to think only of itself."

A special fast was held on the last day of the conference as they prayed for government recognition the Church in the Republic of Moldova.