by Ruth Kimmel
It was a sunny day in Romania as more than 200 Gypsies from the villages of Oșorhei, Cheriu, Marțihaz, and Luncșoara streamed into the pink church. Joy was evident on their faces as they waited for the service to begin. Today one of their own would be ordained as the pastor of Hope Baptist Church.
This was Tim and Sandy Fink’s dream when they began their work in Oșorhei in 2001—to start a church, disciple its members, and place it in the hands of national leadership. Today they see the fruit of their labor and the blessing of the Lord as the Gypsies welcome Iosif Teglaș as their pastor.
An angry young man with a history of violence, Iosif was in prison when he prayed to God for deliverance, promising to follow Him. Released that very day, he surrendered his life to the Lord and opened his home to the Finks’ new church plant. His wife was also saved. Called to church leadership, Iosif remained faithful in the midst of great trials. Today he is a peaceful man, committed to teaching the Word of God.
Throughout Romania, Gypsies suffer from poverty, discrimination, malnutrition, poor sanitation, and a lack of education. Their lives have become even more difficult during Romania’s economic crisis. The Gypsy lifestyle is dominated by alcoholism, leading to domestic violence and neglect of their children. Living on the outskirts of towns, Gypsies have a reputation for thievery and trickery and are distrusted by others. Though unloved by many, the Gypsies are greatly loved by God. The gospel has led many out of alcoholism and into a life of honesty, hard work, and care for their families. Faithful Gypsy believers have gained much respect. In Oșorhei, Iosif has developed an excellent relationship with the mayor, resulting in greater Romanian assistance.
Since 2009, three more families have joined the Finks in Romania. Lucas and Kim Warner have started a church plant and adult literacy ministry in Luncșoara. Working with the Warners, Dave and Ruth Kimmel will focus on evangelism, discipleship, and outreach. Travis and Becky Gravley will conduct leadership training and assist the Finks with the churches in Oșorhei, Cheriu, and Marțihaz.
Yet more workers are needed to reach the 2.5 million Gypsies in Romania. Among the needed are personnel with medical backgrounds who, as part of a church planting team, can serve as liaisons within the Romanian medical system to aid the Gypsies with their healthcare needs. There are no quick solutions to the problems Gypsies face in Romania. Gypsy ministry requires much patience and perseverance, but the rewards are eternal as lives are given to the Lord and changed from the inside out.
Ruth and her husband Dave have served with Baptist Mid-Missions since 2006. This article first appeared in the summer 2011 issue of Advance magazine titled, "Remarkable Mission Fields." Photos from left to right: BMM's Romania team, Iosef with Tim Fink, Marțihaz church dedication.