The Apostle Paul traveled repeatedly to Galatia, Macedonia, and Achaia on multiple missionary journeys. This was my second trip to Greece. Like Paul, there were a number of individuals with whom it was my pleasure to see and visit with again. It was encouraging to see them continue to walk with Christ as they minister and serve in their local churches.
Much of the anticipation and anxiety we felt on our first PV mission trip to Greece was erased on this trip. We learned that the unknowns of a trip become less than while the somewhat familiar become greater than. We went with the same anchor objective and focus from the prior year – to teach the ReEngage marriage sessions to a number of evangelical churches in Athens and also five hours north of Athens to two new congregations. Our team also helped with maintenance at the refugee house property and meal preparation/feeding for approximately sixty homeless and special needs individuals.
So, did we see God at work on this trip? Indeed, we did. Here are three highlights in no particular order or ranking.
- PVBC introduced the concept of small groups to the evangelical churches in Greece. We attended one such group and joined in their study of the books of Acts. This particular group was led by the pastor in the pastor’s home. There was also a second small group led by a couple within the church at a different location in the city of Athens. This is a big deal, as their culture believes that the only the pastor should be teaching/leading.
- While taking a tour of a refugee camp with a church elder who has a heart for refugees, we met a man from Africa. He quickly identified himself as a Christian and was open to begin a Bible study with the church elder. It was my pleasure to give up my English Bible to this individual who has been in Greece for a couple of years without a copy of God’s written word.
- Our first ReEngage session this trip was with a group of refugees from Iran. They would like the materials printed in Farsi. In Matthew 28:18-20 we are commanded to “…go and make disciples of all nations,” and PVBC said yes to Greece and God threw in Iran.
Unequivocally, God is working in Greece and He permitted me/us to witness such on this trip. How cool is that? To God be the glory. -Joel Barcus