eVision Summer 2018

Summer 2018

ON T E P O HE R U E

MOVE:

Refugee Crisis •&• IMMIGRATION e

e-vision-17.indd 1

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

Europe on the move: refugee crisis and immigration

Editorial

3

4

Stephen McQuoid

A Week of Prayer for the world’s refugees

6

8 Mark Davies

This magazine is published twice yearly to report on the work of GLO in Europe and around the world and to promote mission interest. There is no subscription rate but readers are welcome to send gifts towards postage and production.

Mission and Millennials

Morgane Barré

The challenge of working in a multicultural city

12

Stephen McQuoid

My story with refugees

10

Tilsley College

GLO Bookshop

14

15

Judith McKeown

Andrew Lacey

Connect with us!

GLO Europe Mission is on:

GLO is a charity registered in Scotland: SC007355.

If you would like to contribute financially to the work of GLO this can be done directly using the bank details below or by contacting our Finance Director: Ian Smith (ismith@glo-europe.org).

Leaving a lasting legacy Many people have a concern about what the long-term impact of their lives will be on others. As Christians this is a big issue because the Bible encourages us to live our lives in view of eternity. GLO, along with many

BANK OF SCOTLAND, 72 BRANDON PARADE, MOTHERWELL ML1 1UW ACCOUNT NAME – GLO TRUST SCOTLAND SORT CODE – 800915 ACCOUNT NUMBER – 00400636

other Christian organisations, benefits greatly from legacies that people leave behind. It is a way of significantly helping the work of the kingdom by organising your giving after you have gone.

We have produced an information booklet on the use of legacies and if you would like to have one then write to: Stephen McQuoid | GLO Centre | 78 Muir Street | Motherwell ML1 1BN | smcquoid@glo-europe.org

2 e-vision-17.indd 2

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

W

elcome to this edition of e-vision which deals with one of the biggest issues in Europe today, that of migration. Every year hundreds of thousands of people from different parts of the world come to Europe, either by choice or because they are fleeing chaos, poverty and war. They come hoping to find a better and safer life and we will look at some of the great spiritual opportunities that this provides. Several of our GLO workers and students are involved in ministering to migrants as well as refugees and we will hear stories of what God is doing in these situations.

There will also be an article on Millennials and mission, asking serious questions about the next generation of people who are preparing to serve God and the challenges they face. In addition, we will look at the latest developments in Tilsley College as well as what the Bookshop continues to do as it serves customers from far and wide.

In a previous e-vision I mentioned that we need to launch a significant building project here at the GLO Centre. This is partly because a sizeable section of our Centre is a temporary structure, past its sell by date and in bad condition, but also because we are growing as a work and therefore desperate for more space. A new building project gives us the opportunity to look to the future and see how we can shape the GLO Centre to meet the demands of 21st Century ministry.

Any building project will cost money and be disruptive to the work that goes on here so these are major points for prayer. We are making some progress, however. We have commissioned an architect to do a feasibility study. The next stage will then be to decide what direction we want to

“ We are excited about the future and all that God is doing through the work of GLO. Our desire is to make progress and not to be content with a maintenance mode. ” go in developing the site and then find a suitable company to do the job. Please would you pray that we will experience God’s guidance and help with this project and that in due course the necessary finances will be provided. Pray also that we will be able to maintain a continuity of ministry over what will be a fairly lengthy period of building.

We are excited about the future and all that God is doing through the work of GLO. Our desire is to make progress and not to be content with a maintenance mode. The spiritual needs of Europe are immense and our passion remains that we want to proclaim the good news of Jesus and equip his church for service. To do this we need a viable Centre here in Motherwell, but we also need to keep focused on our vision. Our strapline says that we are committed to, ‘growing mission focused churches in Europe’. We are committed to doing this through widespread and local EVANGELISM, also by ESTABLISHING churches and ministries, through TRAINING and through providing RESOURCES for ministry. This is our vision and we move forward trusting God to enable us to carry out the work to which he has called us. Please pray for us and join us in this exciting work.

by Stephen McQuoid

3 e-vision-17.indd 3

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

O E N P THE O R U E

MOVE:

Refugee Crisis •&• IMMIGRATION

T

he issue of immigration is an immensely complex one and made more so because it has become so politicised. Indeed, some would argue that the desire to control borders is one of the primary reasons for the Brexit vote. With an ageing population and low birth rate Europe certainly does need immigration and many would argue that diversity adds a great deal of vibrancy to Europe. However, multiculturalism, which has been the official policy of many European governments, has led to both tension in many European communities and a loss of confidence and identity.

Another complication is that much of the recent influx has been as a result of refugees fleeing from some of the world’s worst trouble spots, not economic migration. Global crises like the civil war in Syria have meant that many displaced people have made the perilous and difficult journey into Europe, often illegally, assisted by people traffickers and jumping the queue ahead of those who are trying to enter the continent through legitimate means. Because of this, many Europeans have felt conflicted between their human desire to be compassionate and a more cautious instinct to be alarmed about what is happening, and this in turn has heightened the political debate even more.

The political machinations will continue, but as Christians we need to be able to stand back from these debates and ask the questions, what is God doing and what should our response be

as his church? Before we get there, however, it may be helpful to add some definitions so that we are clear about what exactly we are dealing with. We begin firstly with the definition of a refugee. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, refugees are, ‘persons who are outside their country of origin for reasons of feared persecution, conflict, generalised violence, or other circumstances that have seriously disturbed public order and, as a result, require international protection’.

When it comes to migrants there is no formal legal definition, but most experts agree that a migrant is someone who changes his or her usual country of residence for purposes other than a threat to personal safety. The reasons for this are manifold, but might include those of economic enhancement or benefit to the family through increased educational or employment opportunities. Most of us would believe this is a laudable aim. There is a need for caution, however, when using the word migrant because it can, unfortunately, mask a thinly veiled prejudice towards others. For example, we would refer to Syrians or Romanians moving to the UK as ‘migrants’, but we call people moving from the UK to Spain ‘ex-pats’. It is also worth bearing in mind that, according to the definition above, UK Christians who move abroad as missionaries are also migrants.

Often a distinction is made between shortterm migrants who move for a duration of 12

“As Christians we need to be able to stand back from these debates and ask the questions, what is God doing and what should our response be as his church?”

months or less and long-term migrants who will stay in the new country for more than a year. Of course, the end result of refugee and migrant movements is the same, people end up living in a country other than their place of origin. However, when it comes to refugees they are often traumatised and have lived through harrowing situations and are deserving of genuine compassion, especially from Christians.

When we look at the refugee and migration situation and reflect on how it affects Europe, there are a number of striking features we need to observe. Firstly, there is the sheer scale of this great movement of people. It is very hard to find accurate details when it comes to global migration but people are on the move in their millions. Indeed, UN data suggests that currently there are more that 230 million international migrants and 740 million internal migrants (migration within a country which, of course, may still require cultural and language adaptation) globally. When we focus on Europe itself, huge numbers are making their way into the continent with preferred destinations being the UK, Germany, France, Spain and Italy (total immigration statistics for 2015 Eurostat were as follows: Germany 1,543,000, UK 631,000, France 363,000, Spain 342,000, Italy 280,000).

The reason for this is probably connected with the relative wealth of these countries and their advantageous lifestyles.

A second feature is that migration tends to be an urban phenomenon. Again, this is probably because cities are the most likely places to find jobs, educational opportunities and, by virtue of scale, access to familiar cultural communities.

This migration means that it is Europe’s cities, and the larger cities in particular, that are changing the most. In the UK, for example, the number of foreign-born residents grew from 3.8 million in 1993 to 7.8 million in 2013, while at

4 e-vision-17.indd 4

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

the same time 38% of the entire foreign-born population live in London. According to the BBC this has led to London becoming the most polyglot city in the world with 300 languages being spoken.

A third feature is that many of the migrants who enter Europe come with an existing religious commitment. Most world faiths are represented here but the majority would come from either Christian or Muslim backgrounds.

This is made particularly interesting given the increased secularisation in Europe and has led to a worldview clash between secular Europeans and the religious migrant communities.

Consider that in the UK the majority of young people (68%) claim no religious affiliation and in the Czech Republic this figure rises to an incredible 90%. By comparison as many as half of African migrants to the UK would claim to be Christian and another sizeable proportion would be Muslim. The religiousness of the migrant communities brings great gospel opportunity.

The Christians among them have brought a spiritual vitality which blessed many churches in the UK. At the same time many of the Muslims who find themselves in Europe come from countries where there is no religious freedom and where proselytizing is illegal, but now that they are in Europe they can be reached with the gospel in complete freedom.

All of this begs the question, what should our attitude as Christians be to migration? Given the polarisation of the issue in our wider culture this is a thorny question. However, we need to step back from the debates and see what God is doing and be prepared to respond appropriately.

Perhaps the first thing we need to say is that it is a Christian virtue to welcome the stranger.

Whatever a person’s reason for entering our continent, as Christians we should extend the love of God. This is particularly the case for refugees as they are particularly vulnerable and need Christian love and care. We should not forget that Jesus himself was once a refugee (Mtt.2:13-23)!

We should also see the gospel potential of this mass movement of people. There are, for example, 46 million Muslims living in Europe and we should see this as a great opportunity to extend the hand of friendship and try to win them for Christ. We should also feel blessed by the many Christians who have come to live in secular Europe and take advantage of the potential for reverse mission. It may well be that in God’s great plan, he intends for Europe, including the UK, to be reached with the gospel by people from all over the world. If this is the case, then our commitment to the Kingdom should govern our thinking.

by Stephen McQuoid

“as many as half of African migrants to the UK would claim to be Christian and another sizeable proportion would be Muslim. The religiousness of the migrant communities brings great gospel opportunity. ” 5 e-vision-17.indd 5

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

A

FOR THE

R

i

F O PRA K E YE WE

i

World's Refugees W

e would invite you to commit one week to praying for the refugee crisis. Here are brief prayer points for each of seven days. Please take a few moments each day to pray that God will work in this very challenging situation and empower his church to be a force for good.

6 e-vision-17.indd 6

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

s

Europe

Day 1 x Pray for the top countries of origin for refugees: Syria (4.9m), Afghanistan (2.7m), Nigeria/ Cameroon/Niger (2.2m), South Sudan (1.1m), Somalia (1m).

Pray for peace, stability and just government. Pray that world leaders would be wise and compassionate in dealing with the fallout of these struggling countries.

Day 2 x Pray about the major routes across the Mediterranean into Europe for refugees. The largest numbers cross over to Greece and Italy. Pray for the safety of those who travel and pray against people traffickers who profit from this enterprise. Pray that European governments will show compassion and continue to patrol their coastlines.

Day 4 x

Day 5 x

Pray for Greece which has the second largest number of asylum seekers. Pray that the small evangelical community will be helped to reach out to the many refugees and migrants passing through their country. Pray for the city of Athens which is a significant gathering point for refugees and migrants.

Pray for Germany, a nation that welcomed large numbers of refugees. The German church is very active in offering practical help. Pray for the refugees who have become Christians and are being discipled by German Christians. Pray for a rich harvest from this work.

Day 7 x

Day 3 x Pray for Italy which plays host to the largest number of asylum claims.

Pray for Luca and Anca Illiano who witness to refugees and migrants in Naples and Patrizio and Jennifer Zucchetto who work with migrants in Avellino province. Pray that the Italian church will rise to the challenge of reaching out to refugees and migrants.

Day 6 x Pray for the Middle East which is at the centre of the refugee problem.

In Lebanon one person in three is a refugee which causes huge social and economic challenges. Pray that other countries will support Lebanon and that Christians living and ministering there will be enabled to offer help and spiritual support.

Syrian & Iraq refugees arriving in Greece

Pray for your own community and any refugees or migrants who live there. Pray that local churches will be stirred up with a desire to share the love of Christ. Pray that your own church will be responsive to this crisis and will practice welcoming the stranger.

7 e-vision-17.indd 7

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

Europe

Refugees my story with

by Morgane Barré

I

am Morgane, I am French and I am a secondyear student at Tilsley College. This year my placement is in Naples in the south of Italy.

When I started Tilsley College almost two years ago, I had no intention of going to Italy, yet the Lord had spoken to me about working with refugees. It was during my first year that I discovered the great needs in Italy, the first receiving country of asylumseekers in Europe.

Europe has, in the last few centuries has become a ‘post-Christian society’ and yet it is in Europe that the Lord is now bringing thousands of African migrants, coming from countries where atheism is essentially non-existent.

In Italy the majority of the population is culturally Catholic while Protestantism is weak and divided.

On the other hand, the Jehovah Witnesses number around the same as all the Protestants combined. Migration has infused a vitality and new growth in the church, just as it has done in much of the rest of Europe. However, in the last four years the constant influx of African migrants into Italy has led to a social and political crisis.

The migrants arrive from Western Africa to Italy, crossing the Sahara Desert and then through Libya where they some are forced into slavery or imprisoned. Many die in Libya and those who survive and can afford it, have to face the obstacle of crossing the sea. Again, many of these ‘fortunate few’ die in their attempts to cross the Mediterranean Sea. When they finally arrive on the shores of Italy they are registered as asylum-seekers and accommodated into ‘hospitality’ centres all over the country where they stay on average a year awaiting a decision regarding their refugee status. The Italian government hands over the management of the centres to the third sector;

businesses and organisations who receive money from the government but are not obliged to report how they spend it. In the world we live in, where money is the root of all kinds of evil (1 Tim. 6:10), the migrants have become a profitable business for many people in all levels of society. However, these centres are an amazing opportunity for the gospel. Indeed, people of all kinds of nationalities live there, people who are desperate to hear a message of love and comfort, of another world where the last will be first, and the first will be last, (Matt. 20:16).

Roughly half of the migrants in Italy are, Nigerian Christians from Pentecostal or evangelical backgrounds. The other half are Muslims from countries such as Senegal, Mali and the Ivory Coast.

There is a work of both evangelism and discipleship to be done. We must keep in mind that the African Christians will be better than us at witnessing to the African Muslims, hence both evangelism and discipleship go hand in hand.

The Jehovah Witnesses have responded to the situation and have been active in a great number of centres where they offer ‘Bible studies’ and practical help to the refugees to the point that their efforts are reported on to Italian news! Their main target is the Nigerian Christians who often are not as biblically literate as European Christians and can easily fall in the traps of those masquerading as servants of righteousness, (2 Cor. 11:15).

“Many die in Libya and those who survive and can afford it, have to face the obstacle of crossing the sea. Again, many of these ‘fortunate few’ die in their attempts to cross the Mediterranean Sea.” 8 e-vision-17.indd 8

2018-05-14 7:32 AM

The opinion but nat church of view numbe integra Howev differe displac If w or main poor an not be buildin crowds on them ‘I was a Theref thinkin page of with a

Europe

SEB & JESS Further Reference: BRANDT Asylum Europe, Reports Italy, http://www.asylumineurope.org/ reports/country/italy/statistics

BBC, 2017, African migrants sold in Libya ‘slave markets’ http:// www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-39567632 Al Jazeera, 2017, African Refugees Sold and Murdered in Libya, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/11/african-refugeesbought-sold-murdered-libya-171129103602048.html 2,556 people died crossing the Mediterranean sea in 2017 alone, IOM, 2017, Mediterranean Migrant Arrivals https://www.iom. int/news/mediterranean-migrant-arrivals-reach-150982-2017deaths-reach-2839 Asylum Europe, Regular Procedure, http://www.asylumineurope. org/reports/country/italy/asylum-procedure/procedures/regularprocedure The Guardian, February 2018, Migrants more profitable than drugs, https://www.theguardian.com/news/2018/feb/01/ migrants-more-profitable-than-drugs-how-mafia-infiltrateditaly-asylum-system

The general sentiment of the Italian public opinion is one of hostility, suspicion and fear. Sadly, but naturally, this sentiment tends to pervade in the church. To look at it from a purely pragmatic point of view, the refugee crisis in Italy comes with a great number of challenges; in terms of national security, integration, economic issues, religious diversity etc.

However for us as Christians we can look at it in a different way and see the Lord’s Sovereign hand in the displacement of people, (Acts 17:26).

If we were engaged in building a global company or maintaining an international business, then the poor and helpless migrants coming into Europe would not be the last of our concerns. However, we are building the Church of Christ, the One who saw the crowds, harassed and helpless and had compassion on them, (Matt. 9:36). The One who will one day say, ‘I was a stranger and you invited me in’, (Matt. 25:35).

Therefore I want to stay alert, and keep on praying and thinking about how we could give glory to God in this page of history - conscious that many miracles started with a crisis. I ask you to partner with me, knowing we

are all called to mission, whether as senders or goers.

While I give this overview of the situation in Italy, I am aware that every asylum-seeker’s story is different. For example I met Moussa in Italy last year, from the Ivory Coast. Moussa was born in a Muslim family, he grew up in at time of political unrest. His father was killed for political reasons while he was still at school and his mother died when he was a student.

He had to work various jobs to pay for his studies, but none of them could suffice so he took the chance and paid a smuggler to reach Europe where he was promised wonderful things. Going through what he called his worst nightmare, he finally arrived in Italy and was placed into a migrant centre in the region of Campobasso. That’s where I met him with other missionaries and was able to tell him about Jesus’ love for him. Many months later he paid another smuggler to take a chance again; going to France with the dream of finishing his studies. He finally reached France after a long period of time living on the streets outside the train station in Milan. While he was travelling he kept the New Testament we gave him and found

comfort in Jesus. Now in France he is being treated at a hospital for a leg injury he received during his time in Libya. He has fellowship with a group of Christians who come to visit him every day.

Another example is Sumon from Bangladesh.

Sumon left his country fleeing hardship and reached Germany, where a German Christian gave him a New Testament. He said he tried to throw it away but found it again in his bed. He finally started reading it and realised it talked about the love of God, so he went to that German man and had a long conversation about faith. Sumon said the Lord transformed his heart and he was later baptised. Today he is part of a church in the region of Rome where he helps to share the gospel with other migrants and he feels called to be a missionary to the migrants in Italy.

So when I feel discouraged seeing the masses of migrants currently unreached in Italy, I remember that every life is precious to God and that even the smallest act of love can have great eternal consequences.

9 e-vision-17.indd 9

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

Millennials Mission and

by Judith McKeown & Stephen McQuoid

I

(Stephen), have always loved missionary biographies, mostly because of the astonishing characters who feature in them. The first time I read about the life of David Brainerd who proclaimed the gospel to the Delaware Indians, I was spell bound by the courage and self-sacrifice of this young man who gave his all for the sake of mission, travelling more than 3000 miles on horseback so that people could hear about Christ. Most remarkable of all, throughout his missionary career he suffered terribly from illness and died at the age of just 29.

Reading biographies like that I often wonder if church members today would be willing to endure the same hardships or have the same steely commitment to mission that characterised these great missionaries of the past. Could we expect the same commitment, for example, from today’s so called ‘Millennials’? The media somewhat unfairly brand the millennial generation as ‘snowflakes’ because of their reputation for sensitivity and a need for constant affirmation. Could they become the pioneer missionaries of today?

First things first, however, who are the Millennials? Millennials, or Generation Y as they are sometimes called, are those born between 1980 – 2000. They precede Generation Z and follow Generation X who are commonly known as the ‘Baby Boomers’. Today a Millennial is anyone between the age of 18 and 38. Research carried out by Rainer and Rainer in 2011 has shown that, in general, Millennials are a generation who value education, place great importance on relationships, are constantly communicating on all forms of social media and they believe they can make a difference in society. They are, however, also a generation who believe they are “entitled to continuous praise and recognition”. They do not deal well with negative feedback because they are the children of the ‘Baby Boomers’ who often treated them as ‘trophy children. Consequently, many have grown up being constantly praised by parents and also the education system. Compared to the ‘Baby Boomers’, research shows they have a lower work ethic and place greater importance on the work-life balance, and put emphasis on the need for leisure time. Research carried out by the Foster College of Business found that Millennials cope better with negative feedback if it helps them to see how they can make ‘a positive contribution to their workplace’ and also ‘enhances their individual development.’ However, they also need ‘instant gratification and frequent rewards’. In America today, as in much of Europe, the ‘Baby

Boomer’ generation make up the majority of the work force, however over the next 20 years they will be taken over by the Millennials.

If the same principle applies to the mission field, then we need to consider what will motivate ‘Millennial missionaries’? How will a generation who need constant affirmation and who see negative feedback as an ‘attack on their self-worth’ deal with the disappointments and frustrations of life as a missionary? How does this attitude marryup with Jesus’ command to his followers that they must deny themselves ‘take up [their] cross and follow me?’ (Luke 9:23). How will this generation cope when they do not see instant fruit from the work they believe God has called them to?

Before we get despondent thinking about this, there is another side to the millennial coin. This apparent attitude of self-absorption is balanced out by other research carried out by Rainer and Rainer. They found that Millennials also place great value on relationships, have a concern for others and a deep sense of community. In terms of their theology they are perhaps less concerned about objective truth and propositional statements, but they want to see that Christianity is real and that Jesus changes lives. In other words, that are not just concerned that Christians should be theologically orthodox, they want to see Christians live authentically and being genuinely Christ-like. They also want to see that Christians care for their community. They are ambivalent to denominational labels and judge a church, not by its structure or traditions, but by how well it practices community, the corporate worship experience and its compassion.

Ed Stetzer argues that ‘churches that are engaging Millennials are… known for caring for the marginalised [and] the hurting.’ Indeed a survey carried out by the World Economic Forum (Global Shapers Annual Survey) in 2017 found that ‘68% of Millennials are found to empathize with refugees and are ‘most likely very disappointed with the world’s response’ to this crisis.’ Thus we have a generation, who on the one hand are rather self-centred, but who are also ‘civic-minded’ and seem to have some understanding of what it means to love their neighbour. They are also natural communicators and networkers, making them potentially great evangelists.

“ Mission is about truth, but it is about truth being lived out through transformed lives. It involves people experiencing Jesus and becoming like him” 10 e-vision-17.indd 10

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

“ Churches that are engaging Millennials are‌ known for caring for the marginalised [and] the hurting.â€?

Mission leaders and organisations have a lot to think about! Life is changing and there is no point looking back to the halcyon days of David Livingstone, Gladys Aylward and Hudson Taylor and wishing that missionary candidates like this would join them in global mission. We are dealing with a different constituent and it is the Millennials who will write the next chapter in mission history.

The big question is how will they write it and what should mission organisations do to encourage and inspire them?

The first thing we need to do is to remember that labels are unimportant and a mere dry theology has no pulling power. Mission is about truth, but it is about truth being lived out through transformed lives. It involves people experiencing Jesus and becoming like him, caring for a broken world and serving others. That is a mission challenge that Millennials will respond to. Mission is also about working together, cooperating for the good of the world, team work, supporting one another as together we build new communities (churches) that will role model the radical lifestyle of Jesus.

As we do so, we encourage each other to excellence and celebrate what we can achieve together as mission workers. This too will motivate the millennial generation. We will achieve this by cooperative, communication rich, relational and motivational partnerships rather than overlystructured and centralised mission organisations. We need to learn to live mission in our daily lives, sharing a passion for a broken world and the healing that comes through Christ. This is the kind of mission enterprise that will absorb the millennial generation and focus their considerable gifts and communication skills on winning the world for Christ.

11 e-vision-17.indd 11

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

wi

London

in

r o f j e s s s us e n t multi-cultural

by Mark Davies

“ the presence of immigrants is clearly beneficial as many come as believers from parts of the world where the church is growing and vibrant, with a confidence in the Gospel that we need to recover�

12 e-vision-17.indd 12

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

A

mong the powerful visions that the Apostle John sees in the book of Revelation is the truth that no people group will be missing in those final days. This ties in perfectly with Christ’s Commission to us to ‘… make disciples of all nations’ (Matt.28:19). This Commission has, in some ways, been made easier because the world has now come to us through immigration.

Shirley and I are delighted to be serving in London, as its multi-cultural character resonates with the life experiences of our missionary work in Zambia, family life, as well as the cultural mix of the students we saw through Tilsley College. In our current church’s Toddlers group, Shirley can chat away to between 15-20 different nationalities twice a week. She sings in a Gospel choir with members drawn from across the globe. Our increasingly multi-cultural society offers both outreach opportunities, especially to those who originate from countries closed to overt Christian witness, and provides workers to help us reach indigenous people more effectively.

We are not alone... growing the team.

It is key that we cooperate with the immigration phenomena to help the growth of the church in the UK today, recognising God’s hand in it all. Here are a few current examples:

The growth phenomena of mono-ethnic non-English language churches

1. Receiving missionaries from other countries

Some of the largest and fastest growing churches in London are rooted in people groups immigrating into UK. One of the main drivers is the desire and need to worship God and witness in the mother tongue of each particular group. Having lived and taught in a second language for over 20 years, I am personally aware of how difficult it is to worship and to pray in a second language. Even after functionality in the new language has been achieved, the strain of worshipping and praying to God in a non-mother tongue remains. However, the presence of immigrants is clearly beneficial as many come as believers from parts of the world where the church is growing and vibrant, with a confidence in the Gospel that we need to recover.

This raises a question about whether as indigenous churches we have the humility to receive and learn from our incoming brothers and sisters.

Here are three models of how this vibrancy can be both supported and shared: a) Connecting with these independent churches functioning in their own language and reflecting the culture of the birth country. b) A language group functioning as a distinct fellowship but within our local church that is English-speaking and indigenous. c) Indigenous churches which integrate nonEnglish speaking people gradually, deliberately and with linguistic support into active fellowship.

Where mono-ethnic and non-English language churches exist, churches could take positives steps to build relationships and give practical help such as with the use of buildings. We can also stimulate their emergence. If your local church constituency has seen particular groupings settle into the area, whether Polish, Romanian, Francophile African or Iranian, then the church can consider finding help to run some activities in those languages.

We should also remember that, while the first-generation Christian immigrants often lack English, their children growing up here certainly do not; so-called, ‘Third Culture Kids’ can help our own churches to grow more effectively in a multicultural context.

Charles has been working for 19 years as a Ghanaian missionary in London, serving with both local churches and with Counties. In addition to evangelistic work in multicultural east London, he has a specific heart for young people of immigrant families (African, Asian and Eastern European).

Erika is an Argentinian serving with GLO. She highlights the important role of UK churches in building more bridges and helping with cultural adaptation. ‘As an immigrant myself, I think that the only way to integration is by accepting the local culture, in the same way, when missionaries go to another country they have to learn and adapt to that culture.’ Are we helping these incoming missionaries?

2. Integrating refugees into local church Issayas made the long journey here as a refugee from Eritrea and worked through the lengthy process of re-qualifying as an accountant in the UK. He has been helped greatly by becoming an active member in a church in south Wales and been a help in sensitising the members of that church to the realities of refugee experience and the challenges of cross-cultural communication.

Alongside that has been his involvement in an Eritrean church in the area.

3. Mission, marriage and family Emma, while serving overseas, met and married Ayham from Syria. They are now settled in Wales and raising a third-culture family, fellowshipping in a British culture church as well as supporting an Arabic speaking fellowship. In the early English-learning stages, it was vital for Ayham to be attending an Arabic fellowship for his own spiritual survival. Coming from Syria, riven with factions and deep distrust between groups, Ayham had to work through difficulties in learning to fellowship alongside other Arabic speaking people. Emma and Ayham as a couple bring significant understanding and experience

to those seeking to reach Middle Eastern origin people or those with a Muslim background.

4. Partnering with oversees people and churches Ramon with his family came from Brazil in 2004 and serves as a pastor in Barnstaple. God had laid a call in Ramon’s heart in 1990 about serving in mission in the UK. This became a reality when he met a leader from the church in Barnstaple who was on sabbatical in Brazil. Ramon is now helping this rural town church thrive and be an effective support of other churches in the area. The key dimension here is building relationships and partnering with overseas churches and individuals.

5. Partnering better with those on our doorstep Overseas students, multi-national company employees, migrant workers, multicultural marriages, and third culture kids. London is full of them! Are we recognising and appreciating them, and making best use of all they can bring to enrich local church life and witness?

Some key ways forward As indigenous churches we need to learn and benefit from those the Lord is bringing to us, who often come with a greater confidence in the Gospel, courage in evangelism and determination in prayer. Can we humbly acknowledge that we need help in these areas? l Seek out Christians in your area who are from the same background or language of the significant ethnic minority groups in your area. l Consult with Christians who are nationals in those countries to learn how best to witness in those cultural contexts. Build partnerships with churches in those countries. l Consider worker exchanges, short visits (both ways) that may lead to longer term partnerships.

“ we need to learn and benefit from those the Lord is bringing to us, who often come with a greater confidence in the Gospel” 13

e-vision-17.indd 13

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

College

Tilsley

T

he past academic year has been an important and significant one for Tilsley College. We have carried through a request from students (past and present) that they be able to continue their studies to the equivalent of a degree, by starting a third year in September 2017. We have called this programme a European Baccalaureate in Biblical Studies and Christian Ministry. The first group of EuroBac students will graduate, God willing, in June 2018. This programme received accreditation from the EEAA this year.

The full-time programmes the College now offers are:

Certificate in Biblical Studies & Christian Ministry (CertHE)

One year

Diploma in Biblical Studies & Christian Ministry (DipHE)

Two years

European Baccalaureate in Biblical Studies & Christian Ministry (BacTh)

Three Years

Tilsley has always had, at its core, training in various aspects of cross-cultural ministry. In the past, this has been seen mainly as preparation for ministry outside of the UK. However, the nature of the modern world means that everyone, wherever they may worship and serve God, will be involved in crosscultural work. These cultural changes have led to a revision of the way in which cross-cultural mission is taught at the College, with modules available in all three years. As with all Tilsley’s modules, these are available as Open Access for

“ Some of these modules are taught as block modules, which would allow someone to attend Tilsley for a week and receive the teaching.

Others are taught over a longer period of time. It may be possible, for people living at a distance from Tilsley, to follow these lectures and seminars online”

people who are interested in learning more about cross-cultural ministry.

The relevant modules are below. Each credit is equivalent to around 25 hours of lectures, seminar attendance, reading, and assignments.

Some of these modules are taught as block modules, which would allow someone to attend Tilsley for a week and receive the teaching. Others are taught over a longer period of time. It may be possible, for people living at a distance from Tilsley, to follow these lectures and seminars online.

Introduction to Cross-cultural Mission

Level 1, Introductory

1 credit

Introduction to World Religions

Level 1, Introductory

1 credit

Theology for Mission

Level 2, Intermediate

1 credit

Mission Practice Then and Now

Level 2, Intermediate

2 credits

Christ in a Global Context

Level 3, Advanced

5 credits

Trends in Global Christianity

Level 3, Advanced

5 credits

Responses to Islam

Level 3, Advanced

2 credits

Applications to follow Open Access modules should be made through the College website. Further details are available from the College Registrar, Anne Grover (telephone 01698 266776, email: agrover@glo-europe.org).

We recognise that the world is changing and our role is to prepare Christians to minister relevantly in this world. The reality of immigration mean that most Christians are in contact with people from different cultures, different worldviews and even different language groups. We seek to help them relate relevantly to communicate the good news in a way that is understood.

14 e-vision-17.indd 14

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

Europe

Serving God in a Migrant Crisis: Ministry to People on the Move Patrick Johnstone & Dean Merrill

Strangers in the Kingdom: Ministering to Refugees, Migrants and the Stateless Rupen Das & Brent Hamoud

Normal price £8.99

Normal price £9.99

e-vision reader price £8.99

e-vision reader price £8.00

Free

post & packing in the UK, overseas post & packing at cost. Offers end 30th June 2018, subject to availability.

Bookshop FROM THE GLO

by Andrew Lacey

I

t’s hard to believe that it is almost 15 years since I started in the GLO Bookshop! I do remember very clearly my initial impressions when I took over the work from Geoff Ruston. My previous life had been managing grocery shops among the smaller communities of Central Scotland. Immediately I started here, I was clearly aware of the far wider global nature of our ministry. Not only were we in daily contact with people from the continent of Europe, but we sent books to Africa and Asia, helping customers from all over the Majority World. It was really exciting to be involved in a ministry with a far wider reach than the boundaries of a small community. This wider reach has continued to be one of my thrills of working in the Bookshop.

The continuing rise of internet shopping has inevitably led to a decline in this global market for us, and we have seen our focus of ministry change. We have seen a significant increase in customers who are seeking to help new arrivals to the Greater Glasgow area. This has been a most interesting area of our work, as we have the opportunity to assist with resources and to give advice. We have been able to suggest Bibles suitable for people grappling with a second language - especially one as difficult as English!

We have found the New International Reader’s Version (NiRV) popular with these customers. The

NIrV is based on the New International Version (NIV) but is written at a third-grade reading level, making the translation ideal for those just learning to read or learning English as a second language. It has been a privilege to partner with churches and individuals seeking to welcome people to our country, not only befriending, but also sharing the Good News that transcends all boundaries of culture and nationality.

There have also been some excellent books written recently on the subject of refugees and immigration. Many of you will be aware of Patrick Johnstone and his work on ‘Operation World’ over the years. His recent book, ‘Serving God

in a Migrant Crisis’ is a concise overview of the current migrant crisis, and was highly commended

by Stephen McQuoid in one of his recent ‘Book Recommendation’ emails. The other title we have featured is a more practical look at the issues, ‘Strangers in the Kingdom: Ministering to Refugees, Migrants and the Stateless’. Both books are well worth reading to be informed about these areas; I trust that God will bless and direct you as you read these books in a prayerful way, and that God might prepare you to serve the changing community around you.

“ We have been able to suggest Bibles suitable for people grappling with a second language - especially one as difficult as English! We have found the New International Reader’s Version (NiRV) popular with these customers” 15

e-vision-17.indd 15

2018-05-14 7:33 AM

GLO board members Rupert Abbott Stephen Cracknell Mark Davies Sam Gibson Karen Macrae Simon Marshall Stephen McQuoid Mike Packer Philippe Perrilliat Ian Smith Patrizio Zucchetto

Contact Details Stephen McQuoid (General Director) smcquoid@glo-europe.org 01698 263483 Mark Davies (Training Director) mdavies@glo-europe.org 07503 953259

Admin office admin@glo-europe.org 01698 263483

Sam Gibson (Missions Director) sgibson@glo-europe.org 028 9447 9411

College Office college@glo-europe.org 01698 266776

Ian Smith (Finance Director) ismith@glo-europe.org 01698 263483

GLO Bookshop books@globookshop.com 01698 275343 / 263483

GLO short-term opportunities Some places are still available for 2018 mission teams.

Check out our website for the most up-to-date information: www.glo-europe.org or contact missionteams@glo-europe.org 01698 263483

GLO Europe Vision Statement

Our vision is to grow mission focused churches in Europe.

EVANGELISE:

Our focus is to :

to proclaim the gospel to as many people as possible in Europe

Tel 01698 263483 Fax 01698 253942 E-mail: admin@glo-europe.org Internet: www.glo-europe.org

Gospel Literature Outreach 78 Muir Street Motherwell ML1 1BN

using every method available

ESTABLISH: to ensure believers are established in their faith, strengthen existing local churches and plant new mission focused churches in Europe

TRAIN:

to prepare and equip people for mission, to evangelise and church plant and to serve God and his Kingdom with excellence in a wide variety of vocations

RESOURCE:

to provide resources that support mission activity through finance and literature, strategic input and pastoral care

e-vision-17.indd 16

2018-05-14 7:33 AM