Visitor Testimonials

"This has truly been a life-changing experience. I'm leaving with a new perspective on life and so much clarity about my future. Rob and the guys treated me like family and made me feel incredibly safe and welcome. Rob is such a caring, funny, and knowledgeable person, I learned a lot from him. I loved learning about gardening and connecting with nature. Their connection with their community is beautiful, everyone helps and cooks for each other, and the food is amazing! I already miss this place so much. It truly has a special place in my heart. You won't regret volunteering here."

"Everybody was very nice and welcoming. They are happy to help you out any way they can. The nature surrounding the area was absolutely beautiful. Overall, just great people and plenty of free time to spend however you choose."

"When we arrived at the Advent Center in Berivoi, we were welcomed with a big hug and a huge smile from the people at the center and from Rob himself. We learned so much about Christianity, community, a bit of construction, and many other things — all thanks to the genuine generosity that is so present in the place, in Rob, and in the other people at the center. Rob has a tremendous amount of knowledge and the ability to share it in a clear and simple way. We participated in a workshop that Rob gave, which really helped us understand what our vision is and how to bring it to life. This place will stay in our hearts, and we are so grateful for the precious time we spent there."

"It's a spectacular place! Meeting Rob was an inspiring experience. He's not just someone who expects help from volunteers, but someone who helps us. He gives us lessons on how to improve our life projects, motivates us to dream bigger, encourages us to create growth strategies, and welcomes us into his wonderful space with immense kindness. The people I met there were equally lovely, with a really great vibe. I would go back a thousand times."

"Berivoi is a special place. It was my first stop on my trip and it was the best decision. Rob made me feel welcome from the first few minutes. I learned not only more about gardening but also a lot about myself, my beliefs, my perspective on life. Everyone here has the opportunity to work on themselves whether alone or with the support of Rob and the others. Every question I asked was answered honestly and gave me the opportunity to understand a lot more. About Rob as a person: He is a very open, caring, smart AND funny person, whom I could trust after a short time. Thank you for everything!"

"The Advent Center at Berevoi is special. Oozing with compassion, reflection, and dedication, it's a great place to be if you're seeking catalysis for growth or change in life. Or, otherwise, it's a great place to be - to just be. Rob is a real furnace of ambition, which is a wonder to behold (and get caught up in), so there is never a dull day under the watch of the Carpathians. He maintains a healthy, encouraging attitude, spurring activity and conversation, challenging views and beliefs and asking the questions that force a deep dive to discover the answer. Above all though, he is incredibly kind and attentive and has a great sense of humour; a most gracious host. There is a strong spiritual undercurrent at the Advent Center which, though drew me and is insisting on my coming back for more, may not be everyone's cup of tea. As it is the budding community's backbone I'd suggest anyone considering a visit to weigh up their values and intentions before arriving. If there is even slight alignment or willingness to remain open and curious, as in my experience, the resonance will ring out over the river and through the mountains like a clear bell. Yet even putting all of the above aside, the food is colourful and made with love, the air is fresh, stream clear, beds warm, wifi fast, and people happy—what more is there to want? Thank you Rob and friends, see you all again soon."

"Rob is a kind, smart, funny and amazing human being! You can learn a lot from him, you can have great conversations on literally every topic, doesnt matter if you’re a religious person or not and also its a great cooker! He is making you feel like home since the first minutes you arrived there. I didnt feel like working there, everything you do, comes with pleasure, no one is rushing you. You can relax in the hammock above the river, or in the natural river pool, or just enjoy the beautiful surroundings Ps: be careful with food there, its too good, you might gain a little 🤭."

"This experience exceeded my expectations. Rob is a very kind and attentive person, always making sure you're well and comfortable. He's a great host. The activities are simple and easy to do, and you also have the opportunity to learn new skills. In the afternoons, he gives you space to continue working on yourself or get to know the area. Something else I want to point out is that the food is super delicious and varied. Being here made me feel at home. The other volunteers are friendly, and over time, you become part of this great family."

"I had an incredible week volunteering. Rob, the host, welcomed me, and the other volunteers gave me a very warm welcome. The place is beautiful, surrounded by nature and with a nearby river; the room and shared spaces are very comfortable, and the internet works well. I loved the morning and evening meetings, which make everyone feel like a family. The food is delicious, the work is light and flexible, and there is also room for personal development. I recommend this experience to anyone looking to connect with nature and themselves."

"My stay at Berivoi has been full of eye opening moments and learnings, so much so that I've decided to stay longer and be a pro-active member of the community. What I really appreciate is how Rob pushes us to think differently and apply all that we learn in real life. He's all about other-centerdness and providing an environment where everybody can thrive in their own personal ways. Of course the respect for the culture, the place and the people comes first. I would say that if you are interested in learning really useful skills from construction,gardening to entrepreneurship and psychology this place will be the right fit for you. More than anything Rob is a truth-seeker and has investigated reality very deeply and is able to present his beliefs in a very interesting and exciting way. I can guarantee that you will be captured by his presentations and courses. The reason I would seriously recommend to visit this place is because there is a greater purpose that permeates everything that we do, serving God daily by refining our character to be as perfect as Christ , fostering deep love and appreciation for every person that we have around and ultimately taking part in the 144k that will end this great controversy."

"Rob is a genuinly caring person. He makes an effort to make you feel welcomed. I was happy to have an opportunity to work on different projects and learn some things,Rob is also happy to teach you whatever, had great conversations with him, he is very open in general. Rob lives and runs the place according to the holy Bible and it is normal to have Bible study times pretty much everyday. It is up to you to communicate how much you want to be a part of it and he will respect that. I am grateful for the inspiring and loving times there! Thanks Rob, you are doing good things!"

"I had a truly peaceful and enriching time with Rob's community. Ros was incredibly generous, and the kindness and openness of everyone made the experience feel very special. The conversations around religion were thoughtful and meaningful, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn more about their garden and the beautiful projects they're nurturing. I also received some insightful advice for my small business, which I deeply appreciate."

"Staying in Berivoi was far better than expected. I just wanted to go somewhere to learn something new during the holidays, but I came back home with a more open mind, full of beautiful experiences, with new knowledge and a different way of looking at the world and its problems. The atmosphere there is very relaxed, spontaneous, and friendly, and the schedule adapts to the needs of the people. Sometimes you work a little more, sometimes it's just free time with a presentation or two, and sometimes it's a nice trip to the mountains or a nearby city. I recommend staying with Rob if you want to learn about gardening, construction work, tree net weaving, cooking, or anything related to religion, or if you enjoy deep and interesting conversations. You can only end up being a better person than you were before."

"Rob is very kind and caring host, he makes the effort to get to know you. Also with his so many previous experiences, there's so much to learn from him. From the start he made me feel welcomed and gave me the opportunities to discuss and do anything I wanted, I truly felt like home being involved with the neighbours as well, couldn't have asked for a better first experience at world Packers, highly recommended and will definitely be back in the future."

"It's a very nice environment. It allows you to grow as a person, and Rob helps you develop spiritually, socially, and emotionally. The people who come are very nice. Being in an environment of good coexistence, healthy work, healthy living, and emotional awareness makes connecting and improving a very pleasant process. Berivoi Center is the perfect place to disconnect, reflect, grow, and, above all, enjoy everyday life ♡"

"I have currently been on and off the Berivoi farm for over a year, and it's been one of the best mind-opening experiences I've ever had. The setting is beautiful. The farm is located just at the foothills of the tallest mountains of Romania, and it has a big creek passing through the middle of the property. It is a very peaceful and quiet place that has definitely grown close to my heart. During my stay at the farm, we have mainly built several small cabins and other buildings. The farm is still an ongoing project in its building phase, but now there is very good accommodations for wwoofers and other visitors. The food is truly amazing and plentiful. It's mainly vegan, with occasional eggs. Rob is a great cook, and has educated me in the Asian and American cuisines. Also during busy seasons, some lovely neighbors cook traditional Romanian food for us that I greatly enjoy. Most of the ingredients come from the farm or local sources. The reason I have been coming back again and again staying here is because of the people that I've met here. Rob is one of the most selfless men I've met. His high level of thinking and open mind has definitely inspired me to understand the world better. He's a living encyclopedia, knowledgeable in science, philosophy, tech, entrepreneurship, religion, business, etc. I have been enjoying the Bible studies in particular, something Rob is really passionate about. I cannot recommend him enough, especially those seeking for meaning."

"Staying with Rob was one of the most transformative experiences I've had in my life. When I arrived I was tired in body and spirit. And was looking for a place to breathe - And with him, I found peace, purpose, and real connection. Rob is extremely kind, grounded, deeply present and he cares about the people that surrounds him - An amazing plus: He is also incredibly smart! The place itself is peaceful and inspiring. Its surrounded by nature, amazing people and another level food! We shared moments I'll carry with me for the rest of my life! Thank you, Rob! for creating a space that truly feels like home!"

"I very honestly had the best experience at Advent Center Berivoi! I stumbled upon this place a bit by chance and in a rush, but I was then extremely pleasantly surprised. As soon as Magda came to pick me up at the station and with the super warm welcome from Rob and the other woofers, I felt incredibly good. The atmosphere is so kind-hearted and energetic, the people are really open, and the exchanges are incredibly enriching! Rob makes a special effort to ensure everyone finds their place, and you can really feel it! Since I left, all I can think about is going back! My only regret is not being able to stay longer ;) I recommend this unique experience 1000%!"

"I had a lovely time at the Advent center! Rob is a kind soul, the nature is amazing, the work is not too much but still fulfilling. We had amazing food and the cabins and restrooms are in good condition"

"I came here in April when there was still snow and will leave in July—hoping to return. It's been a spiritually, physically, and mentally enriching experience. Very peaceful, with a respectful culture maintained by Rob. The lush setting, framed by the Carpathians, is a beautiful place to learn about our Creator. Volunteers are treated like family; most never want to leave—including me. Work includes gardening and building. Rob uses organic methods like woodchip mulch and food forests. We poured concrete for a house foundation and built a large deck connecting key buildings. We usually work 8–12 physically, then do mental tasks, unless it's a busy stretch—then it's full-day resilience training 😄. Cabins are cozy by the river. We fix our own breakfast, share lunch if we've worked. Food is amazing—Rob's a great cook. Hot showers and laundry are available. Rob is one of a kind—deeply caring and communicates through logos, ethos, or pathos depending on who he's talking to. He shares powerful teachings on God, end times, responsibility, and country living. Key takeaways: proactive thinking, individuality, and the blessings of community. I learned from Rob's method of learning by teaching—very effective. His Bible and Spirit of Prophecy insights helped me see our short time left and my role: to vindicate the Father as part of the 144K, hastening His return (Mark 4:29). If you feel drawn to visit, I highly recommend it. Just bring clothes you don't mind getting dirty."

"The time i spent here in Berivoi was absolutely unforgettable. The farm is situated next to the highest mountains in Romania on the edge of a beautiful ancient forest with a little river running through the property. There is a lovely calming atmosphere about the place, perpetuated by Rob and Maggie who are the most thoughtful and generous hosts you could ask for. During my stay, the farm was a semi work in progress - this may be its indefinite state as Rob is constantly finding enhancements and additions in his mission to create peace, comfort and sustainable living. This creates an exciting, visionary energy. Rob is a vast source of knowledge for anything you might want to learn, discuss or debate and he is always ready to share. Adventism is central to the loving ethos of the farm and Robs true education system is a great way to understand and strengthen your relationship to the God. In addition to this, there is endless space to discuss the world through any lens imaginable and Rob is always open to hear new perspectives. Rob also offers invaluable financial guidance through missional entrepreneurship, he is an amazing resource - use him! The food is incredible, plant based and health focussed yet delicious. The recently built accommodations are the kind of clean, spacious, light filled cabins you might find on a luxury retreat. There are cosy campfires at night and hours in the day to relax and explore. Amazingly, there is no catch - definitely worth a visit."

"After losing my job, I prayed and asked God for direction. It was a life-changing situation I never thought I would be in but God had other plans. He told me to visit the Advent Centre at Berivoi. I was excited to learn more about missional entrepreneurship and explore what impact I could make in my spheres but once I arrived everything changed. I didn't just learn about missional entrepreneurship.. I grew closer to God. I learned about country living, healthy eating and most importantly, what my part is in this great controversy. Being here has opened my eyes to so much and I've come to see just how deeply the country is connected to God. I'm so happy God led me here because this experience has truly changed me as a person. I don't know where He's taking me next but my heart is open. I'm especially grateful to Rob and his wife for their kindness, wisdom, and for making this the best experience of my life."

"I had an amazing experience at Advent Center Berivoi. The meals were delicious, and the overall atmosphere was incredibly welcoming. The goal of my visit was achieved – I now know how to build a cabin, which was a great skill to learn. I also experienced significant personal growth and met wonderful people along the way. The bonfires in the evenings were cozy and a perfect way to unwind, while the surrounding nature was absolutely beautiful. Rob was an excellent host, making sure everything ran smoothly and that everyone felt comfortable. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a unique and enriching experience."