Refugees are settling in cities throughout Europe. Amir is one of these refugees who not only found a home, but also found a church family he can depend on.
When it became too dangerous for Amir to be a Christian where he lived, he escaped to Vienna. He wasn’t sure how he would be accepted, and what challenges he would face. Then he found the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
The members of this church come from various cultures and countries. Despite these differences, they all have one thing in common--Jesus! Each week, they come together to celebrate the opportunities God has given them and to ask for His guidance.
Recently immigrants have come to Vienna looking for work, a fresh start, or to escape difficult situations at home. Many refugees, especially from the Middle East, are hoping to settle down somewhere in Europe.
The International Adventist Church in Vienna welcomes visitors to join them no matter what situation they may be facing in life.
Amir has been in Austria for only 75 days now. He escaped his home country in the Middle East to pursue a growing relationship with God.
Amir used to be an alcoholic and drug addict. He felt no peace in his life until one day he was given a Bible. He read the Bible constantly and attended an underground Bible study. It wasn’t long before Jesus touched Amir’s heart and changed his life. The more he learned, the more he saw that his mission was to share Jesus with other addicts and alcoholics. He started having AA meetings in his home, which transitioned into a Bible study. He was finding peace in Jesus.
When it got too dangerous for Amir to be a Christian where he lived, he escaped to Vienna where he found the International Adventist Church. He met the pastor and study group, and immediately wanted to learn more about the Bible.
Amir believes that God brought him here for a reason. He finally feels at home, and is active in bringing other refugees from the Middle East to church or sharing the Bible with them in their homes.
Members of the Vienna international congregation love the fellowship and many of them feel that they are home at last. They like to gather throughout the week. Unfortunately, the building they worship in is in bad shape--there is mold growing through the walls, and their neighbors complain about the noise and traffic.
This quarter a portion of your 13th Sabbath offerings will help build a new church for this congregation. Please pray for this church and the work they are doing in Vienna. Pray that they will be able to share God’s love with the people in this city. And thank you for supporting mission!
