Saturday Night: Gypsy Church Service

Pastor Rubiales was needing a rest, so we went with Sister Mado and Rev. & Sis. Robles to this church called Evangelica Inglesia Filadelfia, of whom the pastor, Pastor Arturo is a ministry friend of Pastor Rubiales.

When we got to the church, we were warmly greeted by some of the elders.  The pastor had not yet arrived.  We were escorted in and seated on the men's side of the church.  This church believes in seating the men and women separately, which historically is what the early Corinthian church did.  The place was buzzing with excitement as the musicians began to play.  The church was full; there were approximately 300 people in attendance, including many children.  Rev. Robles explained to us that this church is unique in that all in attendance here are Spanish gypsies, and are an extremely close-knit community.  When we met the pastor, we found out he is a new pastor and not the pastor that Rev. Robles knew from a year ago.  He began by apologizing to us and told us that we only would have about 30 minutes to minister, because there was a special event after the service.

The worship service started and I can honestly say that I have never been in a worship service quite like this before!  The lights in the auditorium were turned off, except for a light shining on the podium, where the pastor was standing.  Then the music ministry took over.  The lead singer and musicians played wonderfully.  I have never heard any lead singer sing like he did.  Interestingly, the singers were all seated, and in their seats on the side of the platform.  The pastor stood at the podium, with his hands raised, exhorting the people to worship the Lord.  No one in the church stood or sang, but were worshiping quietly in their seats.  Not even the singers moved.  I almost felt like we were in an old testament setting, where the high priest called for the musicians to come, and led worship.  During this worship, I could feel their sincerity and honesty in their singing.  People were truly praying and worshiping God.  It was very different than anything I have ever experienced.

After the pastor’s introduction, and Rev. Robles sharing in song and testimony, I was left with only 22 minutes to preach!  I shared a simple message on faith, and how faith can move the hand of God in your life, and if you need salvation, strength and help, you can receive it according to God's promises.  This church does not hold altar calls, so I asked them to pray to God right in their seats, and many began to pray.  As the pastor closed out the service, he had Bro. Matt Wesson to pray the closing prayer. 

While heading back to catch a cab, the Pastor caught up to us and apologized that we did not have more time, but there had been a death in the church, and this was the reason for the shortened service.  (Please pray for their comfort and strength in this time of loss.)  Due to the circumstances, we were unable to spend much time getting to know this pastor and his ministry in a deeper way.  It is our prayer to somehow connect again, and that our time spent with them was an encouragement. 

Once again, we thank you for your prayers; it has truly been and adventure!

God Bless,

Rev. Mancini