Aromanian in Greece

Introduction / History

A credible theory about the origin of the Aromanians shows them descending from the Romanized Thracians, Roman colonists and soldiers, and Latin Greeks (Greco-Romans). Aromanian is derived from the Latin word Romanus (Roman). The Aromanian language is a Romance Language that is sometimes classified as distinct from proper Romanian due to its slightly varying dialects. The leading A is a feature of the Aromanian language itself and is commonly added before words that might otherwise begin with a consonant. Due to its common language foundations dating from the time of the Latin, historians believe there was a break with linkages to the Romanian language in the 7th to 9th century period.

The Aromanians realized periods of political autonomy amidst the centuries of upheaval and uncertainty in their regions. In 1941 after the Nazi occupation of Greece, a portion of the Aromanians formed an autonomous Vlach state subject to Fascist Italy. After the fall of communism, Aromanians formed their own cultural and political societies and began a national reawakening. They are also sometimes called Vlach, especially in Bulgaria.

The Aromanian people live primarily in Greece, Albania, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria and North Macedonia. Aromanians are grouped into many separate branches by their geographical location. The Pindians are concentrated in and around the Pindus Mountains of northern and central Greece, the western region of North Macedonia, and southern Albania. The Gramustians live in and around the Gramos Mountains in the westernmost region of North Macedonia, western Greece and southeastern Albania. The Muzachairs live in Muzachia, Albania. The Farsherots live in Pharsala, Thessaly, Greece.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many people of Aromanian descent are prominent in public and private life. Sports, art, science, music, business, politics and clergy are several of the endeavors undertaken by many Aromanian people.

Most Aromanians have integrated into society or the majority culture of the area in which they live. The last Aromanian church and school closed decades ago. Efforts to preserve Aromanian culture and language have failed to prevent the extinction of the same due to the lack of government support and strong cultural disapproval of the majority culture. Aromanian children are discouraged by their parents against using the language or promoting cultural elements of their history. Debate continues as to the value of preserving this ancient language and culture.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Aromanians are Christian, usually either Catholic or Orthodox.

What Are Their Needs?

The Aromanians need to put all their faith in Jesus Christ. Traditional forms of Christianity often call attention to saints and institutions rather than the savior himself.

Prayer Points

Pray for a Holy Spirit-led revival in both Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches.
Pray for the Aromanians to seek and find Jesus Christ to be sufficient for all their spiritual needs.
Pray that soon Aromanians will be discipling others in the ways of Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project