Communty Ministry

There is just something about Romanian church that cleanses the soul. Ever since my first visit to Romania over 10 years ago, I find such peace in a Romanian worship service. Maybe it is the voice of God speaking to you through a Romanian woman’s prayer. Or, maybe it is the sound of angels singing from the choir in their beautiful language. Maybe it is just the complete authenticity with which they worship. None-the-less, God is obviously in this place.

I will never forget my first time to attend a Romanian church service. It had been snowing for three days straight. When we arrived at the church the parking lot was completely empty. I assumed we would be the only ones in attendance. However, much to my surprise the church was packed. I could not help but think of all the excuses I look for to skip church and these members walked to church in the snow!

Though yesterday was Palm Sunday in Romania, the theme for the day seemed to be community service. As members of Jersey Village Baptist Church shared their testimonies and songs, Pastor Ed Hogan and the local pastor, Marius Patric challenged members of both churches to get involved in their community. I have hope that this message is being heard. Members of JVBC are engaged both internationally and locally with Buckner and other ministries. Youth members of Bethany Baptist Church in Tarnaveni, Romania, are also leading the way by volunteering on a weekly basis at the Buckner Day Center and the local group homes.

Though thousands of miles apart from each other, both local congregations share the vision that they must rise up and “Go Somewhere, Be a Voice, or Do Something.” Both realize that the time has come for the local body of believers in Romania and the United States to personally get involved with missions and service. Sometimes we just have to travel halfway around the world to get the message!

Jon

Jon Hogg is director/team leader for Buckner Children and Family Services in Houston. He has travelled to Romania with Jersey Village Baptist Church from April 14-24. For more information about Buckner missions go to www.itsyourmission.com or to follow Pastor Ed Hogan’s blog during their trip visit www.xanga.com/jvbc.