A Season of Transformation and Courage Among Roma Communities in Albania
This summer marked a powerful milestone for our ministry in Albania, as sixteen individuals from four Roma communities publicly declared their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism. In the midst of cultural opposition and spiritual barriers, their obedience stands as a vivid testimony to the Gospel’s power to transform lives.
From Hardship to Hope
The Roma communities of Rruga Ura, Alidemi, Sektor Seman, and Rruga Besa are no strangers to hardship. Many families here navigate daily life under the weight of poverty, broken relationships, low literacy, and deeply rooted social customs. In post-communist Albania, religious identity is often inherited and intertwined with a strong Muslim tradition. Faith in Christ is viewed by many as betrayal or shame.
Yet, despite this environment, God is writing a new story.
Over the years, our ministry has walked alongside these communities through patient discipleship and practical care. The fruit of that labor is becoming visible—not just in numbers, but in the spiritual maturity of those choosing to follow Christ. The recent baptisms included men and women, young and old. Each one had counted the cost and chosen Christ.
“All my relatives and friends told me not to do this because we are Muslim, but I decided in my heart, and I will not turn back.”
“Here I found true joy; this is the right path. I have fought for many years to be free, and now that I am back in church, this feels like home.”
Quiet Battles, Bold Faith
Deciding to follow Jesus in these settings is not a private matter. It invites pressure and even threats. One woman, Drita, was ready to be baptized, but her son threatened her with violence if she did. Still, she believes and prays that God sees her heart. Others wrestle with internal hesitations, shaped by years of religious confusion, fear, or generational disbelief.
This struggle is especially pronounced among women, who face layers of societal expectation and spiritual attack. Yet, many are standing firm, believing that Christ offers a better way.
“I was abandoned by my wife, but here I have found true joy.”
Youth Rising with Courage
The work among teenagers is especially encouraging. Eight young people who regularly attend English classes and youth gatherings also chose to be baptized after a season of teaching, prayer, and reflection. These teens described their baptism as a “new beginning,” sharing how they sensed God’s peace and freedom in new and powerful ways.
Their decision marks more than a personal milestone—it is a sign of spiritual momentum in the next generation. Some wept, others testified, all were visibly changed. This fruit reflects years of intentional ministry among youth, families, and schools.
“This feels like a new start. I feel clean and free.”
The Gospel Is Bearing Fruit
What we are witnessing in these Roma communities is not just a spiritual experience—it is the beginning of community transformation. As individuals are set free from fear, shame, and generational lies, they begin to influence their families and neighbors. Faith leads to healing. Hope leads to action. And the church begins to grow.
Pray with us that the seeds planted through these baptisms will continue to bear fruit. Pray for those still facing opposition or wrestling with fear. And pray that entire communities will come to know the joy and freedom found in Christ alone.