Decades of devotion ripple through the walls of Golgotha Romanian Pentecostal Church. It is more than just a building. It embodies the spiritual journey of Romanian immigrants in Chicago.
Golgotha Romanian Pentecostal Church boasts a rich history. It stands as a testament to faith and community. It all began in February 1962. The Trifu family emigrated from Banatul Iugoslav to Detroit. In 1963, the Trifu family moved to Chicago. They attended an American church called Stone Church for a while. Immigration continued and in 1967, the Romanian brothers started printing a Christian magazine called “Prietenul” on Thanksgiving Day.
In August 1968, Pastor Gabriel Kovaci arrived in Chicago. He helped organize the community. The first organized meeting was on August 12, 1968. It took place in a Spanish church at 18th and Halsted. Gabriel Kovaci was the first pastor.
In October 1973, they bought a building at 2809 W 59th St. near California Avenue. It was registered as “Full Gospel Fellowship Romanian Pentecostal Assembly” in Illinois. This was the church’s first name. Today it is Golgotha. The congregation worshiped there until June 2004. God helped them buy a new building in Oak Lawn. It had modern amenities in a great location.
For many years, the church was named “Maranatha.” It was affiliated with the “Church of God” organization. In June 2004, the church was renamed “Golgotha Pentecostal Romanian Church.” Today, members worship at 10100 S 52nd Ave in Oak Lawn.
Golgotha was the first Pentecostal church in Chicago. It was the second in North America. The first in America was in Detroit. Over the years, many brothers have served the church. Key pastors include Gabriel Kovaci. Others are Ion Penzaru, Onciu Sima, and Somsan Gabriel. Balici Aurel, Alexandru Trombitas, Sorin Puha and Iulian Costea also served. Currently, Ovidiu Suciu is the pastor.
Golgotha Romanian Pentecostal Church offers various ministries. Ovidiu Suciu is the Senior Pastor. Constantin Lupancu serves as the Mission Pastor. Nicholas Confederat is the Administrator. Debbie Mois leads the choir. Timotei Sav directs the brass band. Adrian Greab is the Secretary. Petre Fedmau is the Treasurer. Mihai Luculescu leads the youth. Ioana Sbiera leads the children.
Golgotha’s services are possible due to the team’s hard work. The church recognizes that all power and glory belong to Jesus Christ. He is the only Son of the living God.
The Holy Bible is central to their faith. It is without error. It serves as their only standard. They believe in God in three persons. These are the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They believe that God created the heavens and the earth. They also believe that God created angels. Man was created out of dust in God’s image. Sin entered the world through man’s disobedience. Salvation is possible through the grace of Jesus Christ. Faith, repentance and new birth are essential. They also believe in forgiveness through Jesus.
Golgotha Romanian Pentecostal Church stands as a beacon. It represents faith and community. It welcomes all who seek spiritual growth. It is a place where faith and heritage intertwine. It is a testament to the enduring power of belief.