Source: Eureka Rundschau, 15 February 1928 · 📰

From: Karamurat, Dobrudscha
16 January 1928

Dear Editor:

Winter is slowly coming to an end. It was harsh at times, with blustering cold we were not used to, cold as it had not happened in a human life span. In spite of the extreme cold and ice, the soil remained dry and our winter seed did not germinate. It goes without saying that this is of grave concern to our farm population. If spring does not come early with lots of moisture, it could well mean that the winter crop is lost. This, combined with a weak harvest in the previous year, will make the most optimistic person prone to worry. If we are facing another failed harvest, there is no chance of saving us from sure starvation.

Fortunately, the farmers of the Dobrudscha do not have to depend on their grain harvest alone; they grow fruit and wine orchards. Although the income from this harvest is considerably less than the grain harvest, it usually pulls people through hard times when the grains fail. Although we did not have the quantity of grapes we would have liked to have, the excellent quality of the strong wine makes up for it.

I could mention several funny incidents from Tulcea or Malcoci, which happened involving the imbibing of such spirits, as well as some sad tales. All the German drinking establishments have a regular clientele, regardless of the harvest woes, who amuse themselves and are happily imbibing there. Maybe they are trying to wash away their grief in spirits. Some of the incidents occurring are beyond description. Over-imbibers act more like animals than civilized people of the 20th century.

In spite of all the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a joyful event took place in Malcoci, where the archbishop went for a visit. The big event took place on November 8, the day already dedicated for Confirmation Day. The village was well prepared, ready and decorated. The archbishop was received at the village border at 10:00AM, greeted warmly by horseback riders and officials, and then led in a solemn procession through the village to the parish, where he blessed everyone.

The well-practiced choir began with the beautiful hymn, “Great God We Praise Thee”, and a festive mood prevailed in the entire village. With the solemn pealing of the church bells, the procession continued to the church which was beautifully decorated with flowers and flags, but did not offer enough space for all the people who had come from neighboring villages. Hundreds of people could not get into the crowded church. Piously all listened to the wonderful celebration of mass and the great sermon of the aged prelate, who spoke about the meanings and blessings of the Sacrament of Confirmation.

On the following day, the ceremonies began early at 9:00AM with a special sermon by the archbishop. Later, he celebrated a pontifical high mass, assisted by four priests. The choir certainly outdid itself for the occasion. The archbishop confirmed 75 confirmants after the mass and blessed the new parsonage at which time he gave another touching sermon.

Around 5:00PM, the honorable old archbishop was escorted on his way to Tulcea, where he spent the following day. His visit, however, left a lasting impression upon all. Many took the sincere word of the Lord’s servant to heart and changed their ways. The bars were almost empty for several days following the bishop’s visit and the village was a pleasant sight to behold. I hope that our blessings will continue to have a lasting effect and become the inspiration for lasting changes.

So far everyone is healthy except for the sniffles and sneezes brought about by our snow melting weather. All in all, things are well.

With friendly greetings,

Rogoschewski