From the confines of a Romanian orphanage to becoming a beacon of hope for youth worldwide, Jake Stone’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and divine purpose. Born Bogdan Marian Jacob Stone Mueller in 1993 in Zalău, Romania, Jake’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of two when he was adopted by an American family. Today, he is an independent artist, creative professional, and missionary, using his talents to inspire orphaned children and empower future generations.
A New Life in America
Jake’s early years in Cehu Silvaniei’s orphanage were marked by uncertainty, but his adoption by Bob and Beth Mueller in 1996 changed everything. The Muellers, already parents to his adopted sister Marissa, celebrated Jake’s arrival into their Valparaiso, Indiana, home with a tradition they call “coming home day.” Each year, March 1 became a reminder of faith, love, and family.
Growing up in America, Jake’s passion for creativity shone early. He was a hands-on child with a love for Legos, music, and soccer. However, his transition wasn’t without its challenges. The years in the orphanage left gaps in his development, which his parents addressed through homeschooling. This tailored education helped Jake nurture his unique talents while navigating his struggles with academics and social integration.
Discovering a Creative Voice
Music became Jake’s sanctuary. Whether it was playing in marching bands or experimenting with garage bands, his drumming became a defining part of his identity. High school was a turbulent time marked by depression and self-doubt, but Jake found solace in creativity. After overcoming academic hurdles, he graduated and enrolled in Flashpoint College in Chicago, pursuing a degree in Design and Visual Communications.
During his college years, Jake toured with the metalcore band Speaking With Ghosts, all the while dabbling in rap music. But it wasn’t until 2017, after leaving the band and confronting legal troubles, that he found clarity. Turning back to his faith, Jake rediscovered rap as a medium to share his “God story” — a testimony of redemption and purpose.
Full Circle: A Return to Romania
Jake’s journey took a transformative turn in 2018 when he returned to Romania for the first time since his adoption. Stepping back into his homeland, he felt an undeniable call to serve. His trips to orphanages and churches revealed a deep need for mentorship and empowerment among Romania’s youth. Over several visits, Jake dedicated himself to learning the language, immersing in the culture, and building meaningful relationships with local organizations.
By 2022, Jake had made Romania his permanent base. As an independent missionary, he works tirelessly with orphanages and students, teaching English and offering mentorship rooted in faith. His efforts have not only earned him recognition as a local hero but also sparked hope within communities that desperately needed it.
An Advocate for Change
Today, Jake juggles his roles as a musician, entrepreneur, and mentor. He runs a digital media company, creates music that tells stories of faith and resilience, and spends his free time building Legos or mentoring youth. His life’s mission is clear: to inspire others to see challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation.
“This isn’t just my story,” Jake says. “It’s a God story. I want to get people’s attention so I can show them where my attention is.”
Jake Stone’s journey from a Romanian orphanage to a global stage is more than a personal triumph; it’s a testament to the power of grace, determination, and purpose. Through faith and creativity, he continues to write a legacy of hope, inspiring others to find and live out their own God stories.
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