After more than a decade of service, the Finnish missionary couple Aarne and Pirjo-Riitta Törmanen have bid farewell to Hungary and their ministry in Békés County. Over the years, their names have become almost synonymous with the everyday work of the Hungarian Gypsy Missions. They returned to Finland carrying with them memories of children’s laughter, church gatherings, warm embraces, and countless meaningful relationships.
“Serving the Roma community has always been very close to our hearts,” they shared in a farewell interview, speaking with visible emotion but shining eyes. Originally trained in Finland as a kindergarten teacher and a special education teacher, they had long felt called to missionary work and helping others. Upon arriving in Hungary, they first became involved in educational ministry within schools. One of their greatest joys is seeing that the children they worked with years ago have now grown into high school students and young adults with vocational qualifications. “They always greet us enthusiastically and fondly remember the activities we shared together,” they say proudly.
Over the years, they served in numerous communities throughout Békés County, but the Pentecostal congregation in Mezőberény became especially dear to them. “I often felt that what we were doing with the children was not merely a pleasant activity; it was truly life-changing and of vital importance. It also has an impact on entire families,” Pirjo-Riitta explained.
Throughout their many years in Hungary, they themselves learned a great deal from the Hungarian people. “In Finland, it is not customary to greet one another with a kiss on the cheek; we usually just shake hands and say hello. At first, I really didn’t like it, but now I’ve grown accustomed to it,” Aarne recalls with a smile, reflecting on one of his early experiences in Hungary.
Not only did they build deep relationships with local congregations, but their ministry also helped establish a close partnership between Finland’s Fida International and the Hungarian mission. For years, the Finnish organization has supported and closely followed the work in Hungary, while many congregations have faithfully upheld the mission’s ministries in prayer.
As they explain, this time of farewell brings with it many emotions and questions. Upon returning home, they hope to resume their ministry in Finland and “sow new seeds” once again. At the same time, they are looking forward to spending more time with their adult sons.
What will they take with them from Hungary?
“Many heartfelt relationships,” they answer simply.
Many people have also encouraged them to write the story of their ministry in Hungary in a book. For now, it remains only a plan, but it is easy to imagine that one day all the love, faith, and service they experienced during their years in Hungary will find its way onto paper.
The team of the Hungarian Gypsy Missions is saying goodbye not only to two colleagues, but also to two beloved friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, and fellow servants. Yet they do so with the hope of seeing them again soon.
Dear Ritta and Aarne, thank you for everything. We are deeply grateful for you and your ministry.
