Reaching Europe: England’s Forgotten Christian Heritage Opens Doors for the Gospel
Reaching Europe: England’s Forgotten Christian Heritage Opens Doors for the Gospel
LONDON The streets of London hold echoes of a rich Christian past, but for many, the story of faith has faded into obscurity. A recent mission trip revealed just how distant Christianity feels in a country once known for its vibrant faith.
It was an ordinary moment that said so much. As a group of about 75 pastors and church leaders from the Southern Baptists of Texas Convention (SBTC) explored London’s Christian landmarks, two curious teenagers joined the tour. When asked about their knowledge of Christianity, one teen could only say, “I know Christians believe in a guy named Jesus, that He died, and it had something to do with a cross.” Beyond that, he knew nothing.
For Matthew and Stacia Hamline, visiting from First Baptist Church in Academy, Texas, the encounter was heartbreaking. They walked past towering cathedrals once dedicated to the gospel, yet met young people who had no understanding of who Jesus is. “We’re surrounded by massive churches built for God’s glory, but the people here seem spiritually lost,” Matthew said. Stacia added that some former places of worship have been turned into nightclubs, shopping centers, and even drug hubs. “These buildings were meant to honor God, yet their purpose has been completely discarded,” she said.
ALSO READ: Israeli Airstrikes Kill 30 in Gaza, Says Civil Defence
The SBTC’s vision trip in May marked the launch of its Reach Europe initiative, aimed at sparking long-term missionary partnerships across the continent. Leeds, one of Northern England’s largest cities, stands as a stark example of Europe’s spiritual decline. Despite a deep Christian heritage and historic church buildings, only about 0.5% of the population identifies as evangelical Christian. Many locals are not just indifferent but openly resistant to the gospel.
“It’s spiritually dark,” said Beau Bevers, pastor of First Baptist Church in Madisonville, who joined the Leeds team. “Sharing the gospel here is not just difficult it’s often met with hostility.”
Yet, amid the challenges, hope remains. Local pastors in Leeds are faithfully working to rekindle faith, leading small congregations committed to spreading the gospel. Visiting missionaries were introduced to partnership opportunities, from door-to-door evangelism to community outreach events like holiday clubs for children.
Recent data from the UK-based Bible Society offers encouragement. Between 2018 and 2024, church attendance among 18- to 24-year-olds quadrupled, rising from 4% to 16%. More churchgoers are engaging with the Bible weekly, jumping from 54% to 67%. These signs point to an openness to spiritual conversations, even in a largely secular culture.
ALSO READ: ‘Nigerians Must Go’: Ghanaians Protest Over Alleged Prostitution, Ritual Killings
For missionaries, perseverance is key. Many leave after just three years, worn down by the challenges. But the SBTC hopes to foster lasting relationships that can strengthen both local pastors and new missionaries committed to sharing Christ in England.
The Hamlines, a young couple in their early twenties, feel called to that mission field. Even before this trip, they had been praying about serving in the U.K. as International Mission Board missionaries. Seeing firsthand the spiritual need has only deepened their conviction.
“Despite the darkness, the passion of the believers here is inspiring,” Matthew said. “It’s amazing to witness small congregations in such a lost place holding firmly to the gospel. We want to be part of that light.”
CONTENT CREDIT: BLESSING DADA
IMAGE CREDIT: BAPTISTPRESS.COM
