Providence Baptist Church

It was great to be back at our link church in Romania – Providence Baptist Church.  There were three things I particularly noticed this time:

The heartfelt prayer:   Both services had open prayer and many contributed.  I couldn’t understand the words but it was clear to any observer that these prayers truly came from the heart, especially from the older members.  When I remember that these older members made decisions for Christ during communist dictator days, it is no wonder that their trust in God is so palpably strong.  On this trip I’ve heard stories of how in those days the pastor would ask the baptismal candidate a second time in the pool if they really wanted to follow Christ.  It was costly, even dangerous to be a Christian.  They had to be sure.  Such persecution was the soil in which some of the faith I witnessed today was grown. 

Providence Baptist Church - the orchrestra plays

High percentage of young people:   Young people so often get a bad press.  The worst excesses of western culture have flooded this country since the revolution.  The challenges facing these young people are particularly acute.  But this evening a large number where in church: leading the worship, singing in the choir or playing in the orchestra.  

The contemporary music:  Providence had a new sound this time.  The music was band led, vibrant and dynamic.  In seeking to embrace the younger generation, Providence has developed a style that connects more broadly.  It’s working. 

Pray for them as they struggle, like us, with developing a dynamic community that engages beyond itself and as they explore new ways of meeting (small groups) and new opportunities for developing evangelism.

They send greetings to all at Burlington.