An International Gathering
In 2018, JOY Ministries participated in an international church service in Donostia. It was led by a number of pastors who have hosted Basque students for many years and have traveled to Basque Country to experience their culture and get to know their families. The international church service was precipitated by the comments pastors kept hearing from their students and parents, “If we could have a church service (in Basque Country) like you have them in the United States, we would come.”
So, on October 7, 2018 there were approximately 90 Basque family and friends who gathered at the Palacio Miramar over looking the beautiful La Concha beach. The service had both English and Basque spoken. There was a time of refreshments afterwards on the patio. There was a feeling of joy and celebration as people met up with old friends and were introduced to new friends.
Our hope is to have other international church services in Basque Country and explore the possibility of planting an international church which speaks English and Basque. We understand there will be no Basque speaking church until a disciple-making movement occurs first among the Basque people. We believe coming alongside our Basque friends to help them know, obey and experience Jesus will transform a people and culture.
If you are interested in following our journey or would like to be involved in helping in this initiative, please fill out the contact form below. We currently have people on the ground near Bilbao, Zarautz and Bergara.
Eskerrik asko (thank you in Basque)