Who are the Roma?
The Roma people first emigrated to Europe from Northern India around 1,000 years ago. They were craftsmen, entertainers, etc. Over time, they became seen as outsiders, pagans, and undesirables. Laws attempting to ban, and "normalize", the Roma have been passed since the 1500's in countries throughout Europe. During WWII, an estimated 250,000 Roma were killed by the Nazis through medical experiments, starvation, and execution. Roma in Europe today continue to be the victims of extreme hatred and prejudice. They live in poverty, often in "homes" with no running water, electricity, or heat. They are often segregated in schools, receiving an inferior education, if any at all. They are caught in a hopeless cycle of poverty and prejudice. A people living a cursed life, with seemingly no way out.
But God is transforming the lives of the Roma by the hundreds. They are finding Jesus at an amazing rate. And when the Roma find Jesus, their lives are totally changed. They are understanding for the first time that they were created with value and purpose by a God who loves them. Their eyes are being opened to who they were created to be, sons and daughters of a loving Father. The power of God is on full display as people see the transformation. A prophecy was given to some Roma pastors several years ago. This prophecy stated that "the people who have been cursed will become a blessing to the nations". Today, we can see this prophecy being fulfilled. This is an amazing move of God.