In the Gospel of John, Jesus says, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) This past week, seven members of Hyde Park Community were involved in giving and receiving love. Our mission team spent time in prayer, worship, learning and loving, as we began the process of building relationships with our brothers and sisters in Romania. The United Methodist Church in Romania is very young. Yet they are on fire for Christ, joyfully embracing the principals of the founder of Methodism, John Wesley: Personal Piety and Social Holiness.
Consequently, from ministry to the Roma (Gypsy), who find it difficult to trust, to ministry with disenfranchised Romanian Orthodox and Atheists, our Romanian brothers and sisters have been living the love of Christ Jesus. With intentionality, they draw people into relationship with God and neighbor. From the youngest and most vulnerable of God’s children, to the oldest and most respected in the villages across Romania, the love of Christ is lived and taught. Our brothers and sisters in Romania make it a priority to fulfill the two greatest Commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself.”
The United Methodists in Romania offer the transforming love of God to all! Every child, youth, young adult and adult is of value, worthy of God’s love. Under the leadership of Pastor Rares Calugar, the United Methodist Churches of Romania have become a constant and consistent presence reminding all people they are beloved children of God.
Our United Methodist brothers and sisters in Romania have made it a priority to partner with God to bring God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. From inspiring worship that uplifts and sends out, to the Alpha Group Ministry in which passionate volunteers minister to children with special needs; girls once stuck in the sex slave trade have renewed expectation of a better life; youth who have lived in a cycle of despair now have hope. The Soul Family Ministry creates a loving one-on-one environment where mentoring takes place and souls touch and agree through the power of the holy spirit. The United Methodist Church in Romania, small but powerful, is transforming lives.
I look forward to discerning how Hyde Park Community will partner with the United Methodist Churches of Romania. On Sunday, March 19 our team will share with you their experience and impressions of our time in Romania. I look forward to seeing you in Church!
In Christ,
Pastor Doug