More than 1,000 pastors and ministry leaders from 56 countries gathered in Berlin this week for the European Congress on Evangelism. Hosted by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association at the JW Marriott, the event was widely seen as the most significant spiritual summit in Europe since Amsterdam 2000. The congress marked a return to the city where Billy Graham launched his international ministry in 1966.
Franklin Graham Calls for Bold Evangelism
Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham and president of the association, delivered a powerful keynote urging a new wave of fearless evangelists. “We want to light a fire in Europe,” Graham declared, emphasizing boldness and faithfulness in preaching the Gospel. He noted the closure of nearly 1,000 churches in Germany last year as a wake-up call for Christian leaders.
Unity in the Face of Global Division
Despite the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe, the congress united church leaders from both Ukraine and Russia. Organizers highlighted this as a testimony to the Gospel’s power to transcend geopolitical divides. “The Gospel is more powerful than any of that stuff,” Graham said, referencing the ongoing war. Their presence together underscored a commitment to shared faith over national tension.
Urgency Amid Cultural Pressure
Key themes throughout the event included the urgency of the Gospel and a warning against compromising biblical truths. Graham and others emphasized that cultural shifts should not dilute the message of repentance, salvation, and discipleship. Pastor Greg Laurie echoed this concern, warning that reaching the next generation requires clarity and courage.
Supporters Inspired, Critics Cautious
Supporters praised the congress for igniting spiritual momentum in a continent often viewed as spiritually stagnant. They see it as a vital rallying cry for a bold, unified European church. However, critics worry that the emphasis on uncompromising evangelism may alienate younger or secular Europeans. Some also expressed concern about the political overtones of uniting amid war without addressing reconciliation more directly.
Source:
1,000 Christian Leaders Unite to Evangelize Europe with a Spiritual Wake-Up Call
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