{"id":7147,"date":"2019-08-08T06:41:23","date_gmt":"2019-08-08T06:41:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/new.emanuel-church.com\/?page_id=7147"},"modified":"2026-11-01T07:57:29","modified_gmt":"2026-11-01T15:57:29","slug":"istoric","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/istoric\/","title":{"rendered":"History"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull has-parallax em-banner\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);min-height:310px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><div class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background has-parallax\" style=\"background-position:50% 50%;background-image:url(https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/26332.jpg)\"><\/div><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-dark-background-color has-background-dim\"><\/span><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-cover-is-layout-flow\">\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-xx-large-font-size\">History<\/h1>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Short History of Emanuel Church<\/h2>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list em-istoric-index\">\n<li><a href=\"#formarea\">Founding of the church<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#locatii\">Locations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#familii\">Founding families<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#pastori\">Pastors<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#diaconi\">Deacons<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#muzica\">Music groups<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#scoala-duminicala\">Sunday School<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#prima-casa\">First house of prayer<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#tranzitie\">Periods of transition<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#noul-sanctuar\">The new sanctuary<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#departamente\">Departments<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#inmultirea\">Multiplication of the church<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#evenimente\">Events<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#site\">The church website<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#anii-din-urma\">Recent years<\/a><\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"formarea\">The Founding of the Church<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"733\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-1024x733.jpg\" alt=\"21 noiembrie 1984, la aeroport: biserica a\u0219teapt\u0103 sosirea so\u021biei \u0219i a celor \u0219apte copii ai fratelui Ioan Ciuriuc\" class=\"wp-image-10273\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-1024x733.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-300x215.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-768x550.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-1536x1099.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-1.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">November 21, 1984, at the airport: the church waiting for the arrival of Brother Ioan Ciuriuc's wife and seven children<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The First Romanian Apostolic Church in Sacramento began its activity with the settling of the first families in this area.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 1984 a few families decided to gather to worship the Lord according to the pattern and confession of faith of Romanian Pentecostals, with services held in Romanian, in order to preserve their national identity. The families who took part in forming the first Romanian church in Sacramento, named Romanian Pentecostal Church of God, were:  Ciuriuc Ioan, Goga Ioan &amp; Floarea, Gherle Avram &amp; Elisaveta, Merca David &amp; Aurelia, Bogde \u0218tefan &amp; Ileana, Ghi\u021b\u0103 Gheorghe &amp; Aurica, Lazea Petru &amp; Ana, Calancea Vasile &amp; Ileana, Bisco\u0219 Traian.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span id=\"more-226\">The pastoral ministry of this first fellowship was entrusted to Brother Ioan Ciuriuc, and the first secretary of the church was Br. Calancea Vasile.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"locatii\">Church Locations<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The meeting place was made available by New Life Christian Center on Elkhorn Blvd., through the kindness of Pastor James Duncan, in a room adjacent to the sanctuary of this American Pentecostal church of the Church of God denomination, where the church began to grow through the arrival of other families who had emigrated from Romania. Services were held at this location until 1986, when the brethren saw fit to have a Romanian church independent of the American Pentecostal organizations, and the meeting place was moved to a theater on 24th Street in downtown Sacramento &#8211; Sierra 2 (in the dining room), but a group led by the Ungureanu brethren remained in place with the Church of God .\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the beginning of 1987,  an attorney was hired who prepared the necessary documentation, and in February this church was registered as a non-profit religious organization under the name \u201cFirst Romanian Apostolic Church.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From February until June the church services moved to the YMCA  at 2021 W St. Sacramento CA 95818.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From July 1987 to June 1990 the congregation met as renters at the Iglesia Adventista Del Septimo Dia De Sacramento, 3841 4th Avenue, Sacramento CA 95817. At this location Brother Cristian Ionescu also served as congregation leader for a period of six months, after which he moved to Los Angeles.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From August 1990 to August 1991 the church held its services at an American Pentecostal church on North Street in Sacramento, and from September 1991 &#8211; August 1992 again at the Theater &#8211; Sierra 2 , in the amphitheater hall, at 2791 24th Street, Sacramento CA 95818.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Seeking more stability, the church decided to buy land and build its own building where the church's services and activities could take place. This became a reality in 1988, when the first 1-acre parcel was purchased for $17,000 at 4141 Fell Street Sacramento CA.95838.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"em-istoric-galerie-titlu wp-block-paragraph\">The meeting places of the early years (1984 \u2013 1992):<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-3 is-cropped em-istoric-galerie wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"742\" data-id=\"10274\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-1024x742.jpg\" alt=\"Biserica \u00een 1985, la New Life Christian Center, pe Elkhorn Blvd.\" class=\"wp-image-10274\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-1024x742.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-300x217.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-768x557.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-1536x1113.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-2.jpg 1595w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church in 1985, at New Life Christian Center on Elkhorn Blvd.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"789\" height=\"540\" data-id=\"10275\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2.jpg\" alt=\"Botezul din 1987, la biserica de pe 4th Avenue\" class=\"wp-image-10275\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2.jpg 789w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2-768x526.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-3-v2-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 789px) 100vw, 789px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 1987 baptism, at the church on 4th Avenue<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"784\" height=\"554\" data-id=\"10299\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17.jpg\" alt=\"Biserica \u00een chirie la Sierra 2 Center, 1991\" class=\"wp-image-10299\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17.jpg 784w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17-300x212.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17-768x543.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-17-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 784px) 100vw, 784px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church renting at the Sierra 2 Center, 1991<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"familii\">Founding Families and the First Committee<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"986\" height=\"689\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4.jpg\" alt=\"Biserica la Gr\u0103dina Biblic\u0103 din Auburn, 1990\" class=\"wp-image-10276\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4.jpg 986w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4-768x537.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-4-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 986px) 100vw, 986px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church at the Bible Garden in Auburn, 1990<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Among the families who took part in founding the First Romanian Apostolic Church of Sacramento we mention: the Ciuriuc family, the Filip family, the Tivadar Gheorghe family, the Goga Ioan family, the Bogdan Nicolae family, the Bolot\u0103 Ioan family, the Damian Gheorghe family, the Borz Rusalim family, the Paval Adi family, the Mocan Gheorghe family, the Dobre Emil family, the Li\u0163\u0103 Ioan family, the Merca David family, the Romane\u0163 Toma family, the Br\u00e2ndu\u015fa Ioan family, the Pop Nelu family, the Costea Ioan family, the Mar\u0163i\u015f Puiu family.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first committee of the First Romanian Apostolic Church consisted of the following brethren: Ioan Ciuriuc \u2013 pastor, Daniel Filip \u2013 secretary, Goga Ioan \u2013 treasurer, Tivadar Gheorghe, Damian Gheorghe, Romane\u0163 Toma.<br>\nOver the years, several groups of brethren separated from this church, forming over time several churches in Sacramento.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pastori\">Senior Pastors and the Periods They Served in the \u201cF.R.A.C.\u201d Church<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1004\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-1024x1004.jpg\" alt=\"La \u00eenm\u00e2narea certificatului de p\u0103stor, 1986: rug\u0103ciune cu punerea m\u00e2inilor, de p\u0103storii Trandafir \u0218andru \u0219i Duncan\" class=\"wp-image-10277\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-1024x1004.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-300x294.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-768x753.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-1536x1506.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5-12x12.jpg 12w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-5.jpg 1594w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Presenting the pastor's certificate, 1986: prayer with the laying on of hands by pastors Trandafir \u0218andru and Duncan<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ioan Ciuriuc &#8211; Feb. 1987 \u2013 Sept. 1987<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Cristian Ionescu &#8211; Congregation leader \u2013 Sept. 1987 \u2013 March 1988<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ioan Ciuriuc &#8211; March 1988 \u2013 May 1989<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ioan Bl\u0103g\u0103il\u0103 &#8211; 1989 \u2013 1990<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ioan Ciuriuc &#8211; 1990 \u2013 1998<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Emil Ianchis &#8211; Nov.  1998 \u2013 Oct. 2000<\/li>\n\n\n<li>George Ratiu &#8211; Nov. 2000 \u2013 Nov. 2001<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ioan Ciuriuc \/ Adi Paval &#8211; deacon \u2013 Nov.  2001 \u2013 Dec. 2002<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Adi Paval (deacon)\/ Alin Bob Deacon \u2013 2003 \u2013 2004<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Alin Bob &#8211; Congregation leader \u2013 July 2004 &#8211; Senior Pastor &#8211;  June 2005 \u2013 present<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Other pastors who have served in this church over time:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Samuel I\u015ffan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Simion Lup<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Augustin Costea<\/li>\n\n\n<li>David Miclea<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Paul Anderson<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daniel Hitica\u0219<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Liviu Borodi<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"diaconi\">Deacons who have served in this church over time:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Adi Paval<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Alin Bob<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daniel Hitica\u015f<\/li>\n\n\n<li>John Lup<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Nicu Tafta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daniel Ciric<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Cornel Cata<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"muzica\">Musical Groups and Conductors Who Have Served in the Church<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Over the years the church has had a mixed choir and a brass band, and periodically a children's choir and various youth groups. Beginning in 2004, an orchestra was added to the band and choir, and in 2005 the youth choir joined as well. In 2008 the band and the orchestra were merged into a symphonic-type orchestra. The Children's Choir, made up of children from Sunday School, takes part with songs and memory verses in the special holiday services and in the services for the dedication of newborns.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Mixed Choir:<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"982\" height=\"684\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6.jpg\" alt=\"Corul bisericii, condus de fratele Horga, 1987\" class=\"wp-image-10278\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6.jpg 982w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6-300x209.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6-768x535.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-6-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 982px) 100vw, 982px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church choir, conducted by Brother Horga, 1987<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ioan Horga<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Nelu Dejeu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Cornel C\u0103ta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Dan Filip<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Nelu Constantin<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ciprian Mihu\u0163<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ghi\u0163\u0103 Popa<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Jeanina Lup<\/li>\n\n\n<li>David Manea<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Orchestra \/ Brass Band:<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"645\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-1024x645.jpg\" alt=\"Fanfara bisericii, septembrie 1990\" class=\"wp-image-10279\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-1024x645.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-300x189.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-768x484.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-1536x968.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-7.jpg 1589w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church brass band, September 1990<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Nelu Dejeu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Cornel C\u0103ta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ciprian Mihu\u0163<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ovidiu Barbu<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Youth Choir:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Adi Lup<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Diana Ciorega<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Elena Ni\u0163\u0103<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Jessica C\u0103ta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Fineas Banjean<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Daiana Suiugan<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Children's Choir:<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"648\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-1024x648.jpg\" alt=\"Primul cor de copii al bisericii, format \u00een 1987 de sora Rely \u0219i fratele David Merca\" class=\"wp-image-10298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-1024x648.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-300x190.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-768x486.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-1536x972.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-16.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church's first children's choir, formed in 1987 by Sister Rely and Brother David Merca<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>David &amp; Rely Merca<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Elena Ni\u0163\u0103<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Dorina Barbu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Diana Ciorega<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Camelia Borlovan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Kristen Mutu<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Organists who have served over time, in various groups or to accompany congregational singing:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dan Hozan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>David Merca<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Nelu Dejeu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Andrei Zlibu\u0163 (accordion)<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Cornel Cata<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Jeanina Lup<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Florin Tafta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Robert Tafta<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Deborah Cioran<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Debbie \u015eimon<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Rachel Pal<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Sara Luca<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"scoala-duminicala\">Teachers \/ Directors at Sunday School<\/h3>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Teachers:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mihai Ciric<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Maria Mur\u0103rescu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Adi Josan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Lidia Oprisoi<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Dorina Oprisoi<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Ti\u0163a Seicean<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Directors:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dan S\u0103l\u0103jan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Felicia Seiceanu<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Alina Bil\u0163i<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Leti\u0163a Seicean<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Youth Leader:<\/h3>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dan S\u0103l\u0103jan<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Dani Ciric<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"prima-casa\">Building the First House of Prayer<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-1024x541.jpg\" alt=\"Botezul din 1993, l\u00e2ng\u0103 casa de rug\u0103ciune de pe Fell Street\" class=\"wp-image-10300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-1024x541.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-768x406.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-1536x811.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18-18x10.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/11\/emanuel-istoric-18.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 1993 baptism, beside the house of prayer on Fell Street<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In January 1992, on the parcel already purchased at 4141 Fell Street, Sacramento CA 95838, with the Lord's help, the first phase of work began \u2013 the construction of a house of prayer. This house of prayer, measuring 1650 sq.ft., was the first property of the Romanian church, and was dedicated in September 1992. Religious services were held here until August 2006, when the new sanctuary was inaugurated, where services are still held today. At the official opening of the House of Prayer in September 1992, the church numbered approximately 120 adult members. At that time, the church's children held their Sunday School activity in a trailer placed beside the church building.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 1993, by God's grace, we managed to acquire another parcel of land, of almost an acre, next to the existing property, for the sum of $40,000.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the meeting place became too small, in 1994 this led to the decision to begin a project for a new sanctuary. In the meantime, phase II was carried out, namely the construction of three Sunday School classrooms (1200 sq. ft.), a restroom, and an administrative office, which were put into use in 1996. The children were provided with modern conditions in which to learn from the Word of the Lord in both Romanian and English, rejoicing in song, prayer, and various practical activities.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"em-istoric-galerie-titlu wp-block-paragraph\">The 14 years in the house of prayer on Fell Street (1992 \u2013 2006):<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-3 is-cropped em-istoric-galerie wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" data-id=\"10291\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10-1024x680.jpg\" alt=\"Casa de rug\u0103ciune de pe Fell Street\" class=\"wp-image-10291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10-1024x680.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-10.jpg 1192w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The house of prayer on Fell Street<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"667\" data-id=\"10292\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11-1024x667.jpg\" alt=\"Lucr\u0103ri de construc\u021bie pe proprietatea de pe Fell Street\" class=\"wp-image-10292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11-1024x667.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11-300x196.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11-768x501.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-11.jpg 1189w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Construction work on the Fell Street property<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"677\" data-id=\"10293\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12-1024x677.jpg\" alt=\"Biserica \u00een casa de rug\u0103ciune\" class=\"wp-image-10293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12-1024x677.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12-768x507.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-12.jpg 1188w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church in the house of prayer<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"704\" data-id=\"10294\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-1024x704.jpg\" alt=\"Primul cor al bisericii din Sacramento\" class=\"wp-image-10294\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-1024x704.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-768x528.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-1536x1056.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-13.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church's first choir in Sacramento<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"757\" data-id=\"10295\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-1024x757.jpg\" alt=\"Fanfara bisericii\" class=\"wp-image-10295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-1024x757.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-300x222.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-768x568.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-1536x1136.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14-16x12.jpg 16w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-14.jpg 1590w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The church brass band<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"740\" data-id=\"10296\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-1024x740.jpg\" alt=\"Botez la r\u00e2u\" class=\"wp-image-10296\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-1024x740.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-300x217.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-768x555.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-1536x1110.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-15.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Baptism at the river<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tranzitie\">Periods of Transition<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the registration in the State of California of the First Romanian Apostolic Church of Sacramento as an independent non-profit organization in February 1987, a group of families separated from the core of this community and remained at the old location within the American church \u201cNew Life Christian Center.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the fall of that same year, Brother Cristian Ionescu arrived from Romania and took over the leadership of the church until the spring of the following year, having been chosen as congregation leader.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because Brother Cristian Ionescu and his family moved to Los Angeles, the church again placed the founding pastor Ioan Ciuriuc in service, until May 1989, when Brother Ioan Bl\u0103g\u0103il\u0103 became the church's pastor for a year. From 1990 until 1998, the role of senior pastor was again assigned to Brother Ioan Ciuriuc.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the fall of 1998 Brother Ioan Ciuriuc withdrew from his activity as principal pastor, and in his place Brother Emil Ianchi\u015f was chosen as pastor for a period of two years, then Brother George Ratiu for one year, followed provisionally again by Brother Ioan Ciuriuc, and then for a period the church had no senior pastor.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The church committee oversaw all activities, and Brother Adi Paval served as deacon, leading the religious services.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In these periods of transition, and with the departure of any pastor from the church, several families moved to other churches in the Sacramento area.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By God's blessing, at the end of 2002 the bank loan accumulated during the construction period was paid off and the work continued, with the approximately 100 members who remained in the church.<br>\nDuring this period, when the church had no pastor, various pastors were invited alongside the deacons to officiate at the rites of worship, among whom we mention Brethren Ioan Bl\u0103g\u0103il\u0103, Ioan Gug, Augustin Costea, or various pastors who were visiting Sacramento.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In March 2003, several brethren were proposed for ordination to the office of deacon, as the church wished to choose a congregation leader. By the church's vote Brother Alin Bob was chosen, who was ordained as deacon, and from the spring of 2004 he served as congregation leader, until July 2005, when he was ordained as pastor of Emanuel Church.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In August 2004, Brethren Daniel Hitica\u015f and John Lup were also ordained to the office of deacon.<br>\nPastor Augustin Costea, honorary president of the Union of Pentecostal Churches, who moved to Sacramento in 2004, was invited to officiate at certain rites of worship, such as the Lord's Supper, a water baptism in the summer of 2004, and the ordination service of Brother Alin Bob as pastor, serving in several worship services; in 2006 he became a member of this church and served as associate pastor.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After the inauguration service of the new sanctuary, the Council of Ordained Ministers was formed, composed of Pastors Alin Bob, Augustin Costea, David Miclea, and four deacons, Daniel Hitica\u015f, Adi Paval, John Lup, and Nicu Taft\u0103, to whom Pastor Paul Anderson was added in 2010.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Elected to the Pastoral Council, besides Senior Pastor Alin Bob, were the following brethren: Augustin Costea \u2013 associate pastor, Daniel Hitica\u015f \u2013 pastor's assistant, Nicu Tafta \u2013 head of the prayer department. They were part of the Church Council, together with the brethren of the Administrative Committee.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"noul-sanctuar\">The New Sanctuary and the Change of the Church's Name<\/h3>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignright size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"720\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8.jpg\" alt=\"Structura noului sanctuar, \u00een timpul construc\u021biei (2003 \u2013 2006)\" class=\"wp-image-10280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-8-16x12.jpg 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The new sanctuary's frame during construction (2003 \u2013 2006)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the help of the Holy Spirit and through the strengthening of the church's spiritual work, the number of members began to grow, and the first house of prayer became too small, so that chairs had to be placed even in the main aisle and in the entrance hall.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The administrative leadership did not lose sight of the new project to build a larger sanctuary, and with the architectural plans ready, the idea of beginning construction was launched, trusting that God would provide for the financial needs.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Brotherly ties with other Romanian churches in America grew stronger, and we were considered part of the family of the Union of Romanian Pentecostal Churches of the USA and Canada. After a visit that a delegation from the church leadership made to Phoenix, and encouraged by the extensive construction work the brethren were carrying out at Happy Valley Church, the date for starting work on the site was set, and we also received the support of the brethren from Arizona led by Pastor Cornel Avram, president of the Union of Pentecostal Churches.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From November 13, 2003, when construction work began, until August 19, 2006, people worked intensely, with devotion and love for God. The families of the church gave themselves to the Lord's work, and a fresh wind began to blow, bringing enthusiasm and drawing to this work even members of other churches, whom we appreciate in the Lord.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thanks to God's grace, which brought stability and spiritual revival, the number of members grew, reaching approximately 180 by 2006, in addition to nearly 80 teenagers and children who had to hold their activity in the classrooms during the services because the place of worship was too small, especially at the Sunday evening services. The community's effort intensified, marked by generosity, participation in the work, the preparation of meals for the workers, and the support of this work through prayer, which drew God's blessing upon this place.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Donations were made by the members throughout the construction, and then after the framing phase a bank loan of $450,000 was taken.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Throughout this whole period of construction and reorganization of the church's activities, observing the Lord's blessing and His help, we decided together with the church members to give this First Romanian Apostolic Church of Sacramento the name Emanuel Romanian Pentecostal Church. EMANUEL \u2013 God is with us!<br>\nThe events unfolded, not without difficulties, but God always gave us victory, and therefore on August 20, 2006 the consecration of the New Sanctuary of the EMANUEL Romanian Pentecostal Church took place. The inaugural event was followed by evangelistic services and a Water Baptism. Looking back we can say with conviction \u201cEbenezer,\u201d hitherto hath the LORD helped us.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The New Place of Worship is a modern facility with a capacity of 600 seats, and includes six seating sections in the main hall, a balcony, the stage where the pulpit and the places for the musical groups are located, and behind the stage are the baptistery and two dressing rooms. The sanctuary has a semicircular amphitheater shape, with two projection screens at the front and one behind the balcony. Within the building, connected to the entrance hall, are the Pastoral Office, a \u201cmother &amp; child\u201d room, and two restrooms, and above the baptistery is the Administrative Office.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"departamente\">Activity Departments of Emanuel Church<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The activity of Emanuel Church is structured into the following departments, which operate to put into practice the vision of this church:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Evangelism Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Prayer Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Music Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Youth Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Sunday School Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Biblical Education Department (Bible School &amp; Bible Study Groups)<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Foreign Missions Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Relief Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Order and Hospitality Department<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Technical Department (Audio-Video-Lighting-Translation)<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These departments are led by brethren from the Church Council or other leaders, and meet quarterly for evaluation and planning.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The brethren of the church leadership and the ordained ministers make periodic visits to the families of church members, to the elderly, and to the sick in the community.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every Sunday a Sunday bulletin is made available to those attending the services, containing the day's program, the weekly announcements, and an article with Christian teachings. Brother Daniel Hitica\u015f has taken care of the typesetting of this bulletin over the years.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"inmultirea\">The Multiplication of the Church<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As the Holy Scripture states, in the time when the church had peace, it was multiplied by the help of the Holy Spirit; we too can confirm this work of numerical growth of the members of EMANUEL Romanian Pentecostal Church. From 2004 to 2012, more than 200 souls were added to the church's membership, through baptism or by transfer, reaching 320 adult members in 2012, in addition to almost 50 little children under the age of 4, 40 children between 4 and 12 who attend the three classes of the Sunday School, and approximately 30 other teenagers.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Between 2004 and 2012, 98 people made covenant with the Lord in the waters of baptism. The Lord blessed the families of the church with newborns, and dedication services for these little ones were held periodically during the church services.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The church's fellowship is strengthened by worship services and by Bible study group meetings for various categories: young people, young families, the brethren's meeting, or the sisters' meeting. Each year there are trips with the youth or missionary visits with musical groups to other churches in other cities, or participation in youth conferences. A picnic at the park is organized each year, with recreational activities for the church members.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"evenimente\">More Important Events or Works<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Representatives of the church, namely Pastor Ioan Ciuriuc and Secretary Dan Filip, took part in 1989, together with other pastors, in the initiative to found the Union of Romanian Pentecostal Churches of the USA &amp; Canada, and the church hosted one of the first organizational meetings of this organization. The first president of this organization was Pastor Augustin Costea, at the time when he pastored a church in the Los Angeles area. Later he was named honorary president, and the pastor of the Happy Valley Church, Brother Cornel Avram, was elected to the office of president. In 2008 the pastor of EMANUEL Church, Brother Alin Bob, was elected among the members of the Pastoral Council of the Union of Pentecostal Churches.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignleft size-large em-istoric-foto\"><a href=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\" src=\"\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/7\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9.jpg\" alt=\"Dedicarea noului sanctuar, 20 august 2006\" class=\"wp-image-10281\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/emanuel-istoric-9-18x12.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The dedication of the new sanctuary, August 20, 2006<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The worship service of dedication of the New Sanctuary took place on August 20, 2006. Taking part in this church celebration were invited pastors from the other churches of the Sacramento area and representatives of the leadership of the Union of Romanian Pentecostal Churches of the USA &amp; Canada, namely Brother Cornel Avram (president) and Brother Pavel Pop (the organization's secretary), and Brother Cristian Ionescu of Chicago (East Coast Vice President) took part in the following service, when a water baptism was held.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"site\">At the inauguration of the New Sanctuary the church's website was also launched:<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">www.emanuel-church.com The church's website then offered information about the church's activities and video programs broadcast as replays (archive). The site was constantly improved, reaching the point of broadcasting the services live beginning in 2011. Brother John Borz has taken care of this work over the years.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Earlier versions of the website can still be seen today:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list em-sites\">\n<li><strong>2006 \u2013 2008<\/strong> \u00b7 the church's first website: <a href=\"https:\/\/oldsite.emanuel-church.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oldsite.emanuel-church.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2008 \u2013 2015<\/strong> \u00b7 the second version: <a href=\"https:\/\/oldsite2.emanuel-church.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oldsite2.emanuel-church.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2015 \u2013 2019<\/strong> \u00b7 the first WordPress version: <a href=\"https:\/\/oldsite3.emanuel-church.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oldsite3.emanuel-church.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2019 \u2013 2026<\/strong> \u00b7 the version before the current site: <a href=\"https:\/\/oldsite4.emanuel-church.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">oldsite4.emanuel-church.com<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On Feb. 25, 2006 the EMANUEL Pentecostal Theological Center was established, training a generation of students who attended monthly and periodic courses over four years. This Bible School operated in partnership with the BETANIA Faculty of Pentecostal Theology in Arad, Romania.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the fall of 2006 the foundations were laid for the foreign mission work in India, in the state of Bihar, through the visit of Brother Pete Toplean and Daniel Seicean and the beginning of financial support for native workers who would promote the Gospel through the following works:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Classes for the Christian education of children<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Personal evangelism through visits and conversations with the children's parents<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Showing the film on the life of the Lord Jesus<\/li>\n\n\n<li>Planting house churches<\/li>\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first worker to coordinate the children's ministry was Sister Manisha. After her marriage to Pastor Isaac, they took over the responsibilities together and expanded this mission, involving 6 other teachers who handle six classes of children in different villages, with over 200 children altogether whom they help with literacy and to whom they present the basic doctrines of the Christian faith, teaching them to worship the true God in a pagan culture with millions of deities. Working alongside them are also 3 evangelists who lead three small churches and are engaged in distributing Bible tracts and person-to-person evangelism.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To date, the following teams from Emanuel Church have made short missionary visits to India: Pete Toplean and Daniel Seicean, then Daniel and Felicia Seicean, Pete Toplean and Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan. The members of our church support the mission monthly with financial donations and in prayer.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In February 2007, Emanuel Church hosted the Pastoral Conference of the Romanian Pentecostal Union of the USA and Canada. The event included three seminar sessions on Friday and Saturday, and evangelistic services were held in the evenings.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In March of 2007 the following brethren were elected to the church committee: Dan Filip \u2013 secretary, Constantin Ciobanu \u2013 administrator, Pete Toplean \u2013 Treasurer, Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan, Leontin Suiugan, John Ni\u0163\u0103, and Daniel Seicean (auditors).<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also in 2007, the design of plans began for the construction of a kitchen and a dining hall for various occasions, after another parcel of land of 1.5 acres was purchased next to the Sanctuary for the sum of $385,000.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In 2008 the album of the church members was published, with photographs of the families and aspects of the activity of the church's departments.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The year 2009 was significant and involved assiduous work in preparing the 41st Convention of the Romanian Pentecostal Churches of the USA and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first stage consisted of preparing the work of the Convention's Pastoral Conference, which took place in Houston, Texas in the spring of 2009.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On September 4-7, 2009, EMANUEL Church had the grace to host, for the first time in Sacramento, the Convention of the Romanian Pentecostal Churches, which drew more than 3000 people to the services. The theme of this Convention was: \u201cSTIR UP THE GIFT THAT IS IN YOU!\u201d The meetings, seminars, and services of the Convention took place in the center of the city, at the Sacramento Convention Center.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the last day of the Convention a large picnic was organized for the brothers and sisters who attended the Convention, at Gibson Ranch County Park, where more than 1000 people were present.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this extensive work the brethren of the church leadership, the department leaders, the conductors, the musical groups and ensembles, the ushers, and the brethren of the technical department were involved, together with all the families of the church. There was also collaboration with the churches of Seattle, Portland, and Los Angeles in preparing combined musical groups.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pastor Alin Bob, as coordinator of the SACRAMENTO 2009 Convention, initiated and coordinated the publication of a Directory of the Romanian Pentecostal Churches of the USA and Canada, called \u201cA Book of Remembrance.\u201d The book contains over 700 photos along with information about the Pentecostal Christian churches and missions on the North American continent.<br>\nFor the preparation of all the printed materials for this event and of the Convention logo, the typesetting and design work was done by the family of Rusnac Claudiu and Simona of Portland.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The EMANUEL Church website was visited during 2009 by 25,863 computers with a total of 48,172 hits. The monthly record of unique visitors was 5,483, reached in September, the period when the Convention program was broadcast live, reaching 13,702 hits.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In October 2009, following the reconfirmation vote, the church's pastor received a new term of 4 years, and in March 2010 the following brethren were elected to the church committee: Dan Filip \u2013 secretary, Constantin Ciobanu \u2013 administrator, Pete Toplean \u2013 Treasurer, Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan, Leontin Suiugan, Iosif Muntean, and Dorel Goga (auditors).<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In December 2009, the graduation celebration of the Bible School students took place, with the participation of Br. Ghiocel Mo\u0163, dean of the BETANIA Faculty of Theology, Arad.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beginning in 2010, at the initiative of EMANUEL Church, monthly evenings of vigil began to be held together with other local churches of the Sacramento and Marysville area. These evenings take place in rotation at the participating churches, bringing together for fellowship and prayer brothers and sisters from seven churches.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the summer of 2010 the church's logo was installed on the wall behind the baptistery, representing the sacrifice of our worship: an altar on which the name EMANUEL is written, on the altar lies the Holy Scripture, from which shining rays emanate, and above it is the symbol of the Holy Spirit, a dove bringing on its wings the fire needed to kindle the sacrifice. This work was carried out with foam and faux stone materials by the church administrator Constantin Ciobanu and Liviu Damian, with the help of Brother Traian Urluc (a painter from Romania), who sketched the design on the wall and made a plaster replica of the Bible, and of Brother Marcel Gain\u0103, of Seattle, who produced the dove with the flame in its wings.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of November 2010, a Library was opened at EMANUEL Church, containing over 1000 books, dozens of DVDs, CDs, and audio cassettes that can be borrowed by the church members. The post of librarian belongs to Sister Lidia Opri\u015foi.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the fall of 2011 the bank loan accumulated during the construction of the new sanctuary and the purchase of the last parcel of land was refinanced, totaling $730,000.<br>\nAlso in this year the asphalt and lane markings of the parking lot were redone, and stage lights were installed in the sanctuary.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the beginning of 2012, remodeling work was carried out and a kitchen was set up next to the fellowship hall (the old sanctuary), with access from the entrance hall.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the end of February 2012, 25 years had passed since the church's official registration. On this occasion proposals were made for the ordination of Br. Daniel Hitica\u015f and Br. Nicu Tafta to the office of elder, and of Brother Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan to the office of deacon, with the ordination service to take place on March 18.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The church leadership worked for several years on preparing the articles of a new Bylaws of EMANUEL Church that would meet current requirements, and it was approved by the vote of the General Assembly of members in early March 2012.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On March 16-18, 2012, Emanuel Church hosted the meeting of the Pastoral Conference of the Pentecostal Convention of the USA &amp; Canada. The same weekend also saw the Celebration of the 25th anniversary of this church's registration in 1987, and on Sunday morning the ordination service took place.<br>\nA large number of pastors and ordained ministers attended these events, both from the Sacramento area and from other metropolitan areas of the USA and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On the weekend of August 20-21, 2016, Emanuel Church celebrated 10 years since the inauguration of the New Sanctuary. Invited to the celebration services were Pastors Cornel Avram and Nelu Prunean. On this occasion, at the Sunday morning service, the brethren Daniel S\u0103l\u0103jan \u2013 elder, Daniel Ciric \u2013 deacon, and Cornel C\u0103ta \u2013 deacon were ordained.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"anii-din-urma\">Recent years (2006 \u2013 2026)<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From the church's photos on Facebook and the video archive of the services, some of what God has given the church in these years:<\/p>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list em-sites em-istoric-ani\">\n<li><strong>2006<\/strong> \u00b7 August 20: the dedication of the new sanctuary on Fell Street; the same month the church's first website went online.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2012<\/strong> \u00b7 The celebration of 25 years since the church was registered (1987).<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2013 \u2013 2025<\/strong> \u00b7 Year after year in December, the church's Christmas Concert, with the choir, the orchestra and the youth choir, and the Sunday School children with their Christmas program.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2013 \u2013 2015<\/strong> \u00b7 The church welcomed visits from the Speran\u021ba Group, Elim Harmony, the LA Youth Choir, the children's choir of C\u0103minul Felix in Romania, the men's choir of Philadelphia Church in Portland and the worship group of Agape Church in Yorba Linda.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2015<\/strong> \u00b7 The church's services were recorded on video before that too; since May 2015 they can be watched again in the church's <a href=\"\/en\/arhiva-video\/\">video archive<\/a> , and the older recordings are available on request.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2016<\/strong> \u00b7 In April, the church joined those who prayed for and supported the Bodnariu family. In August, 10 years since the new sanctuary was inaugurated.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2017 \u2013 2026<\/strong> \u00b7 Water baptisms: November 2017, June 2022, November 2023, April 2025 and on Palm Sunday 2026.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2019<\/strong> \u00b7 The Pastoral Conference in Sacramento.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2020<\/strong> \u00b7 The COVID-19 pandemic: on March 21, Pastor Alin Bob announced the new measures to the church, and the services continued online. In April, the Lord's Supper was served as a drive-through, and at Easter the church's virtual choir sang \u201eZace-n rece morm\u00e2nt\u201d; the church also sang in the SacUnited virtual choir (Psalm 46).<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2024<\/strong> \u00b7 February 18: 40 years since the church was founded, celebrated with anniversary services in the morning and the evening.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>2026<\/strong> \u00b7 August 16: 20 years since the sanctuary was inaugurated. The church's new website, with live translation of the services, and the plans for a new <a href=\"\/en\/construction_project\/\">multi-purpose building<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Every year<\/strong> \u00b7 The Palm Sunday, Easter and Thanksgiving services, the blessing of newborn children and the weddings of the church's young people.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For all that God has done during this period in the life of this first Romanian Pentecostal church in the Sacramento area, which bears the name EMANUEL, we turn today with thanks and gratitude to the One who was and is with us! May God's work continue in this local church under the guidance of the Holy Spirit until the return of our Savior Jesus Christ, and may many souls find peace and salvation, serving the Lord and growing in spiritual maturity through fellowship with other believers and with the Word of God!<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be and remain with us all! Amen!<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Scurt Istoric al Bisericii Emanuel Formarea Bisericii Prima Biserica Apostolic\u0103 Rom\u00e2n\u0103 (First Romanian Apostolic Church) din Sacramento \u015fi-a \u00eenceput activitatea odat\u0103 cu stabilirea primelor familii \u00een aceast\u0103 zon\u0103. \u00cen anul 1984 c\u00e2teva familii au decis s\u0103 se adune pentru a se \u00eenchina Domnului dup\u0103 modelul \u015fi m\u0103rturisirea de credin\u0163\u0103 a rom\u00e2nilor penticostali \u015fi cu desf\u0103\u015furarea [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-7147","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7147","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=7147"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7147\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10304,"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/7147\/revisions\/10304"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.emanuel-church.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=7147"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}