Romanian in Ukraine

Introduction / History

There were tribal peoples living in what is now Romania thousands of years ago. Finally they were unified under the Dacian Kingdom in the first century BC. That kingdom ended in 106AD when it was conquered by the Roman Empire, one of their eastern outposts. That is why Romanian is one of the Romance languages. The Romans retreated in the 270s under pressure from the Goths. The Roman control of the area was short-lived and Romania was isolated from other Romance languages. Many Slavic words crept into their vocabulary.

Romanians have struggled to maintain independence for centuries. They gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1977. The 20th century was especially difficult. They unified as a nation in 1918 as a kingdom. That kingdom was abolished in 1947. After WWII, the Soviet Union took advantage of the weakened state of Romania and other Eastern European countries that were destroyed by war. Romania was a Soviet satellite country until 1990.

Romanians live mainly in Romania, but they also live in 39 other countries, mostly European ones like Ukraine. There were Romanians migrating to Ukraine at various times in their long history, especially during the days of the USSR.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Romanians are famous for migrating to wealthier EU countries for temporary work. When parents are away, their children stay with grandparents in Romania. Typically, Romanians in the diaspora speak English as a trade language. In Ukraine they might also use Russian as a trade language.

Romanian women are expected to be excellent cooks and also work outside the home. They can take on jobs like home improvement and auto repair that are usually for men. Romanians respect their women and often give them their seat on a bus.

Bragging is a taboo; they value humility.

Romanians commonly smoke and drink, though they frown upon drunkenness. Their national drink is Tuica, made from fermented plums. Romanian cuisine is greasy and rich in meats, but they also make sure bread is on the menu.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though Romanians are Orthodox Christians, they have maintained a number of superstitions regarding black cats, etc. In this worldview, events are determined by something other than God. There are also small populations of Roman Catholics and Evangelicals.

What Are Their Needs?

Romanians need a country with a strong economy. When parents have to migrate elsewhere to find work, the children suffer.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Romanian churches and in their families, leading thousands to put all their faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Romanians in Ukraine to be reached with the gospel by local Christians.
Pray that soon Romanian disciples will be making more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project