The Harvest Is Plentiful, but the Laborers Are Few

Europe Holy Work Update

Thank God, despite the aftereffects of the Covid-19 crisis, the current war in the Ukraine, and the rising cost of living, the holy work in Europe continues. There are regular Sabbath services at more than ten permanent places of worship, which are either rented or purchased, and at another four places with short-term rentals or services at home. 

Some places of worship in the pioneering areas, such as Madrid in Spain and Empoli in Italy, have recently joined ECC, the European Coordination Center, and have become places of growth. This year was the first time we held student spiritual convocations in Madrid and Empoli at a larger scale: more students, more classes, and more workers. Both of these convocations were not perfect yet, but presented a good opportunity for learning and further improvement.

We can also see some growth in other areas. After the restrictions were lifted, more church members (students and families) moved to Europe for studies and work, and subsequently, have been supporting the holy work. Children are born and baptized. If we consider the number of church buildings in Europe, we can see that within the last ten years, there has been a church dedication almost every two years. Now we should fill all those buildings with more children of God. In order to achieve this goal, we have planned for over 75 virtual and in-person convocations, evangelism events, seminars, fellowships, and trainings for 2024. This workload cannot be covered by one resident IA preacher, five ECC deacons, and volunteers alone, which is why we continue to gladly rely on the support of workers from the UKGA and USGA. We know what Jesus has taught us and pray accordingly:

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Mt 9:37-38, ESV) 

While working for today and for the growth of the church, we are also preparing ourselves for the future. The ECC bylaws need an update to prepare for a possible employment of full-time workers, such as preachers and other staff. In addition, we need to look into the possibility of preaching the gospel to countries in Europe where there are currently no gatherings of church members. These new pioneering areas will present new challenges for our church, as each country has its own language and its own administrative requirements. However, we trust in God and His guidance because we know that this is our mission:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Mt 28:19-20, ESV) 

In all our labor for the Lord, He has been guiding us through all kinds of difficulties to reach the stage we are currently at. We trust that God will continue to help us grow. For we know:

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. (Ps 127:1-2, ESV) 

Please continue to pray for the holy work in Europe; may we all bring glory to His name. Amen.