Some Highlights from the EuroConnect North & South Gatherings
19 May 2023
April/May 2023 in Southern Poland and Slovenia
As the Member Care and Development Facilitator for Aussie members in Europe, I recently had the privilege of attending two regional European gatherings, the first to take place since a pandemic-caused hiatus.
Late April saw the first of two re-gatherings for workers in the Europe regions of North and South. The Europe North gathering, with the theme Beloved Imitators (Ephesians 5: 1-2) was held in a mountainous region in Southern Poland – breath takingly beautiful and refreshing for workers, many of whom have been sharing their lives and ministry with displaced peoples from the bordering country experiencing the terrors of war.
Workers serving on 33 teams sent through many gateways attended the North gathering including 3 Aussie families and one person who was exploring areas of service in the region.
The setting for the second gathering for the Europe South Region, was by the beautiful Adriatic Sea in Slovenia where workers from 48 teams enjoyed the theme Reconnect (with God and each other – studies from the book of Habakkuk), the gathered workers included 9 Aussies with 6 children.
At both gatherings, workers enjoyed rest and relaxation, good food and fellowship and prayer plus worship and the Word in various languages, with workshops covering topics such as Secularism, Thriving and Endurance in the Face of Adversity, Little Fruit, and the Silence of God, Reflecting on Gender and Sexuality in Light of the Gospel, Leadership Development, Receiving Well: Critical for Longevity, Diaspora Ministry Affinity Group, Catering Education to your Child’s Needs, Mobilising for your Team from the Field plus many more. The Childrens’ and teens’ programs, facilitated by visiting children’s workers, brought the strong reminder that Jesus makes all the difference, with fun activities and music and food and much laughter. Many reconnections and new friendships were made.
Being present at both conferences provided the opportunity to bring a familiar face from Australia, some well received Aussie biscuits, chocolates, and Aussie gifts for the children. Seeing workers face to face in place of online was a highlight, having meals and listening to the joys and challenges of service in the region, a privilege. Letting the workers know that we are proud of them and being able to thank them for serving the Lord and the various peoples of Europe was a joy. Thankful to be able to serve the members of the Europe Regions in this way.
Jenny Johnston | Member Care & Development Facilitator
Is God calling you to join the mission field? Get in touch.