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Revival Among Romas In Eastern Europe

01-06-2023

What factors have contributed to revival among Romas in Eastern Europe?

Revival among Romas in Eastern Europe has been influenced by a combination of increased missionary activity, social outreach programs, and the adaptability of Pentecostal and Evangelical Christianity to Roma cultural contexts. These movements often emphasize personal transformation and community support, which resonate with Roma communities facing social marginalization. The growth of house churches and vibrant worship styles have further facilitated spiritual renewal among Romas. For more, see Wikipedia: Romani People – Religion.

How has Christianity impacted Roma communities in Eastern Europe?

Christianity has had a significant impact on Roma communities in Eastern Europe by fostering social cohesion, promoting education, and encouraging healthier lifestyles. Many Roma individuals report personal transformation and improved community relations as a result of embracing Christian faith. Churches often provide practical support such as food aid and literacy programs, further integrating Roma into broader society. Biblical teachings on love and acceptance, such as those found in Galatians 3:28, are particularly influential.

What challenges do Roma Christians face during religious revival?

Roma Christians in Eastern Europe encounter several challenges during religious revival, including discrimination from mainstream society, limited access to resources, and internal divisions over religious practices. Some face resistance from traditional Roma beliefs or skepticism from non-Roma neighbors. Despite these obstacles, many Roma Christians persist in their faith, drawing strength from their communities and new-found purpose. The ongoing revival highlights both the resilience and adaptability of Roma believers in the face of adversity.

“Last week, I visited Bahnea, a small town in Romania, and stayed with Pastor Nelu and his wife Anca, who are pastors of a Roma church. One night, Anca shared how she came to faith in Christ through reading Derek Prince’ book Blessing or Curse. God set her free completely. She is now a worship leader, doing women ministry and overseeing 5 Roma churches together with her husband. She’s also a mother, and they take care of two more children not of their own. Even though they have few earthly possessions and very often no money to buy food, they have faith in God!”

This wonderful testimony was shared just before Christmas by a Dutch lady, who contacted the Derek Prince Ministries office in the Netherlands. But she wanted more than just share a testimony. She also had a specific request.

“From time to time, the pastor’s wife buys a copy of Blessing or Curse for other women, so that they can be touched by God too. But buying them a book often means that she has no money left to buy food for her own family. Is there anything you can do to help?”

Because of our global network of Derek Prince Ministries teams around the world, we could connect her with Brano, the outreach director of DPM Eastern Europe, and our office in Romania who gladly contacted Pastor Nelu and Anca to offer them free Romanian resources.

There is a real revival amongst Romas (historically often called gipsies)”, Brano confirms. ‘This started about 15 years ago. Many are coming to faith, especially youth.” Brano recalls visiting a Roma church in Slovakia. “They gathered in a huge barn. In communistic times corn was stored there, but now a spiritual harvest is being gathered here. The atmosphere was unique.”