 In June 1904 Ganz Raud came to the UK, the first of numerous visits he made in the process of founding the work of the European Christian Mission. On his travels throughout the UK he was invited to speak at meetings and conventions and he took every opportunity to share with his listeners the needs of the continent. During this period Ganz's vision for his life's work became clearer. In 1915, Raud visited the USA, where he was practically unknown. He initially spent his time praying specifically for contacts who would share his vision. As time passed, his prayers were answered. In 1920, an office was rented in New York, moving to larger premises in Brooklyn in 1922. Also in 1922 an office was also opened in Toronto, Canada. When World War One ended in 1918, relief ministry to Christians in Europe was an initial priority. Food and clothing were distributed and a response made to the cry for Bibles, an appeal coming from Russia. By 1923 there were 55 missionaries in Europe, mainly nationals, working in ten countries. By 1927, missionary figures had increased to 81, again mostly nationals along with 243 national volunteers, 132 meeting halls, over 300 regular gatherings, bible study courses in four languages and thousands being converted. Since the end of the Second World War, Europe has become a fertile mission field. A short foray into France was made in 1936 but plans were cut short by the imminent outbreak of WW2 and ECMI personnel had to leave the country, however, in the years immediately after the war, opportunities were seized to re-enter France. New workers were appointed and by 1950, the suburbs of Paris were the center of a vibrant ECMI ministry. Since then our work has grown across Europe. From tribal groups in Northern Sweden to the sun kissed beaches of the Algarve. From modernising Albania to sophisticated Spain. From Ireland to the newest nation in Europe, Kosova. From the cities of urban Europe to the rural areas of Cordoba, Spain. From the tourist areas of Poland to the capital of Portugal. In provincial towns and tourist centers ECMI members are working. Covering the whole continent - almost. Church planting, theological education, addiction rehabilitation, migrants, leadership training, mentoring, education, language teaching, discipling, pregnancy counselling, evangelism - all taking place through ECMI in Europe, a continent described as "the exceptional case‟. Christ has said he will build his church and that includes Europe. The light of Christ still shines in Europe.
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