Several of our churches in Europe celebrated their 20th anniversaries in 2013. In this part of the world, where most people are either uninterested in the archaic views of the bible or are steeped in religious traditions, the disciples in these churches truly shine like stars in the universe (Phil 2:15)!
Düsseldorf, Germany - With a membership of 25 disciples, mostly families, this small but powerful group saw their first teenager baptized last year. Not only were the other parents encouraged, but two more teenagers have been inspired to study the bible as well. As a city, Dusseldorf attracts a wildly international community, and the church includes two disciples from China who are making an impact on their fellow countrymen. Please pray that God will use this congregation to reach not only the surrounding region, but all nations for Christ!Zurich, Switzerland - Known by the world for its spectacular geography and mantra of peace, many people flock to Switzerland to enjoy the "good life." Behind the mirage of perfection and economic success, though, the spiritual reality is that only a few know the true God. The church in Zürich truly stands out--numbering 80 disciples and 50 kids, they are determined to have an impact. After a recent German-speaking teen camp with over 80 teens from Berlin, Munich and Düsseldorf, three teenagers made the decision to study the bible and were baptized.
Odessa, Ukraine - With a membership of 281, the church saw 18 baptisms and 7 restorations in 2013. Over the last several years, the church has experienced a time of strengthening (Acts 9:31), and is now the most stable it has ever been. They have plans to be self-supporting in the near future, a great model for their sister churches in Europe.
Budapest, Hungary - Planted by the Boston church in 1993, over the past 20 years six zealous disciples have grown into an awesome church of 121 adults and 60 children! This past year, the church hosted the Eastern European Missions Conference, which concluded with Budapest's 20th anniversary service.
Many more of our churches in Europe will be reaching this milestone over the next few years. We salute our brothers and sisters who have stood firm, grown to maturity and are having a great impact for Christ in their cities and countries. Stay tuned for more great news from Europe!