*Applications are due April 3rd

Why Sweden? 

Sweden has taken approximately 600,000 refugees over the last few years (more per capita than anywhere else in Europe): people from places like Syria, Iraq, Iran, Somalia, Afghanistan, and Eritrea. All these areas are places that are difficult for Western Christians to go.  While many of the basic physical needs of refugees are met by the Swedish government, most refugees are severely lacking in interpersonal, emotional connections and assimilation aid. These refugees have stories of great tragedy, which means that their deepest desires are to be heard and loved; not simply processed. 

Additionally, postmodern secularism has a tight grip on the Swedish culture, leaving thousands of Swedes without access to the true Gospel.

Through one of the largest mass migrations in history, God is providing a new way for us to fulfill the Great Commission. The unreached people of the world are fleeing to a place of incredible spiritual poverty where missionary work is not outlawed. The need is great, but so is the opportunity. Among both of these groups, there is an enormous Gospel need. 

What will the team be doing?

• Receive training and equipping from the local team on evangelism in Sweden

• Initiative evangelism and surveying in the city park and in immigrant contexts

• Visit the city refugee center to welcome, love, and pray for refugees

• Help host a large-scale ministry outreach event

• Have “fika” (coffee and conversation) with non-believers to continue Gospel conversations

• Learn about ministry in the postmodern world from local Swedish pastors

• Attend a “language cafe” hosted by a local church, learning Swedish side-by-side with immigrants

• Encourage the local team through prayer and Bible Study

How will this trip further the Gospel?

In a context where we are often a Swede or refugee’s first contact ever with the Gospel, more boots on the ground for an extended period of time means more people will be introduced to Jesus. More spiritually interested immigrants and university students will be able to have second, third, and fourth conversations with the people who believe the true Gospel. More church members will be able to be befriended and challenged to take the next steps in their walks with Jesus. We pray that God would use this trip to encourage us, the local team, strengthen participants in their faith, and introduce many in Sweden to Jesus for the first time.

Cost? Approximately $2200. Contact Ben (ben@jpbc.org) or Keith (keith@jpbc.org) for information on raising support.

Questions? Email Matt (matt@jpbc.org) with any questions.