One of the great joys of the Hartford church in recent years has been our partnership with the Bucharest, Romania, church.  That meant Sunday, November 16, was a very special day as Gyuri Orsos, evangelist from Bucharest, came to preach for both of our morning services.

In addition to the highlight of a Romanian visit, the day was capped by the baptism of Utibe Bassey at our second service.  Utibe is originally from Nigeria, and her emotional sharing of gratitude moved all of our hearts.  She recently graduated from Central Connecticut State University.  In her studies she was joined by fellow Nigerian, Ify Uyanwune, Samenthur Blake and Abbey Fajobi, just baptized in the past couple of months herself.

Gyuri came to Hartford via an evangelist training program in Boston that took place November 13-15.  He was converted to Christ 12 years ago in Budapest Hungary.  That is where he married his lovely wife, Ani, seven years ago. They have one daughter, Camilla, and another on the way to be born in January.  Gyuri moved to Bucharest one year ago to focus on leading the congregation to more stability, joy and outward focus.

In the past year, seven different disciples from Hartford have visited Bucharest.  In fact, after initially visiting – Aida Calvo went back over to live and work for six to eight months just to help strengthen the church.

Gyuri preached on “Walking Through the Fire” as he shared the amazing story of faith regarding Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.  As we hold on to God, their example tells us that Jesus Himself will walk with us.  Gyuri emphasized living by our convictions, not just our emotions in our daily challenges.

Following the service, Gyuri spent time with the staff and our deacon for missions and IMS board member, Augusto Russell.  We look forward to our next time together and ask for everyone to pray for our brothers and sisters in Romania, Europe and all over the world.

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