Pastor Rick Warren addressed the Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA) via livestream on May 22, 2025, encouraging African churches to assume a primary role in global Christianity. Speaking from California to church leaders gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, Warren emphasized Africa’s increasing centrality in the global Church and challenged its leaders to take the lead in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Africa Positioned as Global Christian Hub
Warren cited statistics showing over 430 million Christians in Africa, more than the entire population of the United States. “Africa is now the most Christian continent on Earth,” he stated. He urged African churches to take responsibility for global evangelization, underscoring their strategic importance due to demographic and cultural shifts within Christianity.
Shifting Demographics Signal South’s Rising Influence
Highlighting the changing face of Christianity, Warren noted that a century ago, 95% of Christians lived in Europe and North America. Today, that figure has flipped, with 95% residing in Africa, Latin America, and southern Asia. He stressed that the Church’s future lies in being “Southern, urban, and young,” given that half of the world’s population is under 30 and concentrated in cities of the Global South.
Empowering Churches Through the P.E.A.C.E. Plan
Warren shared Saddleback Church’s experience implementing the P.E.A.C.E. Plan—proclaiming the Gospel, equipping leaders, assisting the poor, caring for the sick, and educating the next generation. He argued that empowering local congregations is key to sustainable global mission work, rather than relying solely on Western-led initiatives.
Supporters Applaud Vision, Critics Caution Against Oversimplification
Supporters welcomed Warren’s message as a timely affirmation of Africa’s growing role in Christianity. They appreciated the focus on local leadership and youth engagement. However, critics warned against overlooking structural and economic challenges faced by African churches. Some also questioned whether the global South is being overburdened with responsibility without equivalent resources or support.
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Rick Warren Calls on African Evangelical Leaders to Lead Global Church Mission
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