Cinobana, the Slovakia Coffeehouse

2008 CBFAR trip to Slovakia

Less than four years ago a group of young Roma (Gypsies) men were looking for a way out of hopelessness in their small village of Cinobana, Slovakia.

One suggested they start band and make some money. Another offered that it should be a Christian music band since American TV showed large crowds excited at concerts.

Band members

Problem. No one was Christian. A Bible was found and it was decided that they would retreat to the nearby woods read the book and learn words to put their music to. Later, more than on resident voiced concerned about this group that would disappear with their Bible and guitars.

A Slovakian is baptized.

As the days and reading the Bible continued, confusion set in. The group felt committed to follow through but needed help understanding what they were reading. Without telling him their selfish reasons the group sought out a Baptist pastor in the next town over, Leucinish.

Soon members of the group began accepting Christ as Savior. Their hope of a way out became a new way of life.

There is work to be done.

As the new Christian group emerged a need for a place to meet, play their music and witness was acquired. A house in Cinobana was purchased by a partnership between CBF and another faith based group. Today the members of the coffee house/church in Cinobana are recognized as "the most successful evangelic group" in Slovakia. In the summer of 2008 an Arkansas team led by Ray Higgins saw firsthand how a bunch of young people reading the Bible and playing music has begun changing lives throughout the Roma community.

The building now needs $30,000 in repairs and expansion to continue to serve the Christian community. CBF Arkansas has raised over $15,000 to match the same amount from our partner. In addition, a team of seven mission volunteers will travel to Cinobana April 27 - May 7, 2010 to renovate the facility. The cost will be about $2,000 per person. Email Ray Higgins (rhiggins@cbfar.org) if you are interested in the trip.

We feel blessed to be a part of this effort and look forward to seeing how God will work in Slovakia. Check back for updates from Cinobana.

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