Church: Gypsy Style

The morning starts at 10, right outside our front door. The inviting warmth of the sun this time of year has brought the pews and the people out of the building and into John’s front yard. Our mixed American and Gypsy congregation starts the morning worshiping loudly, in alternating languages. Yet the awkward flow does not prevent anyone’s spirits from praising in unity. People walking by slow their pace caught by the powerful words delivered by the American pastor, translated into Romanian and before long, the busy road beside the church is lined by people, curious and intrigued by the message. 

When the service ends we hover and lull around, talking to and hugging the precious elderly women who have been brought to tears. Lunch is served at our respective houses, so the teams separate and eat a quick but fulfilling lunch before we head to the next village.

Crammed into the cars, we drive up to thirty minutes to the next village for the next church service at 2. The worship is all Romanian except for the couple of songs they ask the American’s to sing in front, followed by introductions and extended blessings. Today is a special day at this church because a respected, 94 year old pastor stands up to deliver an encouraging word, followed by Sandu.

We arrive shortly before six and crowd into the small mint green room. The routine is repeated with worship, a couple of American songs, and a translated message that stirs your spirit.

We head home and finish our day about 9:30 ready to relax, and eagerly looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow on our day off.