We have always been in awe of the astonishing hospitality of the Kosovar people. Even in the midst of the refugee camps in Albania, burdened with hurts we couldn’t imagine, these people were grateful to receive the simple gift of bread that we delivered, and insisted on sharing a cup of kafe with us. This amazing gift of hospitality and respect continues back in Kosova, and is extended to all those who visit their homes.

Life in Kosova is steeped in, and controlled by tradition; some arising from past generations of existence, some connected with the practice of their religion. Now living in the midst of a Kosovar village with a Kosovar family we met in Albania, we see that our friends desire to live a “good” life, to “please” God, and to “prosper”.

Life in the village is simple. We were amazed with the lack of versatility and variety. Each family, in the practice of their tradition, will do most things just as their neighbors.

This includes even the colors of the clothes they wear in the village as well as what they cook and eat. (The diet consists mostly of bread, peppers, and meat.) Having a boy child as heir is very important and often accounts for the very large families- sometimes 4 or 5 girls before the boy is born. Girls learn at a very early age to serve their families. Although treated well, the women have few rights as compared to the men. Education is often not really encouraged for the girls in the village. The practice of the Muslim religion in the village is mostly for the men. The women of Krushe e Madhe do not go to the mosque.

Wanting to be as much alike as is possible, we see the “fear of man” as a great problem for the Kosovars. Though their desire for change may be sincere, their fear prevents them from receiving this challenge. Many express their need for Jesus, few are able to make an open commitment, causing God’s people to invest much in time and love to reach this people.