From 27 to 30 May, 1,000 pastors and ministry leaders from over 55 countries and territories across Europe will gather in Berlin for the European Congress on Evangelism.

This initiative, organised by the Billy Graham association, follows in the footsteps of previous congresses, such as those held in Berlin in 1966 and Amsterdam in 2000.

“An event like this is not only a continuation of my grandfather’s legacy, but we believe a moment that will impact eternity as 1,000 pastors and ministry leaders are equipped, encouraged, and emboldened to continue reaching the continent for Christ”, explains Will Graham, executive Vice President of the Billy Graham Evangelistic association, to Spanish news website Protestante Digital.

Graham, who will be one of the speakers at the event, recalls that encouraging and equipping others was at the heart of his grandfather's international ministry from the very beginning.

“When people remember my grandfather, they often think back to his large stadium events, with thousands of people pouring forward to respond to the Gospel. Many don’t realize that one of my grandfather’s most enduring legacies was his burden to help equip other evangelists throug congresses like these”, he said.

As in 1966, the congress in Berlin is expected to have a lasting impact, because “he need for bold, biblical proclamation evangelism is the same today—if not greater—than it was in my grandfather’s day”, adds Graham.

Challenges

Although the Billy Graham association is renowned for its organisational capacity, they recognise that carrying out this type of initiative, which seeks broad and representative participation, is “not easy”.

“Imagine what it takes to bring together 1,000 Christian leaders from 55 countries, along with 27 speakers and contributors representing 18 nations, all of which have travel restrictions unique to each country. In addition, sessions will be interpreted into 10 different languages and materials are being translated and printed into eight languages. All of this has been a major undertaking”, points out Graham.

However, they “are confident that God will bless this effort for evangelism, and we will see spiritual fruit grow from what will take place in Berlin”.

Europe, amidst secular pressure and renewed spiritual interest

The organisers acknowledge that the conference could respond to some of the challenges faced in a Europe that is secularised and in many cases hostile to the message of the gospel.

“We know that many of the pastors and ministry leaders joining us at the congress are coming from difficult situations where ministry isn’t easy. Many are tired and broken. Some may be questioning their calling. Some have even been targeted and harassed for daring to share the truth of Scripture. We believe that these unashamed servants of God will experience a new anointing and a fresh calling into evangelism”, says Graham.

Nevertheless, they also “prayerfully believe that as these evangelists faithfully minister throughout the continent, sharing the hope of Christ with one voice, revival will sweep across Europe”, as “there are already many encouraging signs of a renewed spiritual interest taking place”.

“This may be God’s timing for the re-evangelism of Europe, and I pray that the Lord will use this to ignite the Gospel flame in spiritually dry places”, adds Graham.

“It is also my prayer that participants will be encouraged and strengthened to return to their mission fields and boldly proclaim the truth of John 14:6, that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and that no man comes to the Father but through Him”, he concludes.

“Do not be ashamed of the Gospel”

The theme of the conference is based on Romans 1:16: do not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Attendance at the congress is by invitation only and participation is free of charge.

In addition to the lectures, artists such as Michael W. Smith, award-winning worship leader Charity Gayle and other European Christians will be among the guests.