Last weekend, the the whole group bundled into the Scuola Biblica van and drove off to Vicenza, a city a bit north of Bologna (some might know it as host to an American military base). We went to visit the church there as part of our goal to visit–for the sake of visiting and fellowship–at least one other congregation every 2-3 months.
We spent Saturday afternoon and Sunday there, staying with members of the church for the night between. It took about 4 hours to get there, but the drive on the way through the mountains was beautiful.
Our time spent with the church as a whole was very good. We spent most of the evening with church members, visiting and discussing how we might be able to work together in the future. We then spent a few hours that night with some of the youth of the church exploring the city. (By youth, I mean anyone between the ages of 15-35 or so :) ) Sunday, we had worship and stayed for their agape (or potluck. most of the churches in italy have one about once a month).
One defining thing about the Vicenza church is how international they’ve become. Like most of the Italian churches in urban areas, they are host to at least a few Americans–north and south–and other Europeans, but Vicenza also has a thriving Ghanean membership. Many immigrants from Ghana have come to Vicenza to look for work, and the church has been an inviting home for them. They usually have a separate english-language service for the Ghaneans, but when while we were there, they had combined service. Gary preached in both Italian and English.
What a blessing that visit must have been for both groups. God bless you all.
It was refreshing for you to be fellowship with the other church. so neat to hear of your plans and may God bless you in safety and health. In him, judy
Cool beans! Sounds like it was a great weekend.