European Network of International Churches

In October 2024, in the 42nd week, the pastors of the FEIC – Fellowship of European International Churches, gathered for the 20th time for a joint summit. This time we gathered in Budapest. Pastor Edsel Klit from VICF church in Vantaa was there.

When pastors and other activists struggling with similar questions come together to prayerfully consider different challenges in a supportive atmosphere, it is clear that creativity enriches the participants.

An idea popped up of such a network in Slovenia in 2003 at a meeting with pastors. My friend, Terry Hoggard, then the pastor of the Brussels Christian Center, took the initiative and the FEIC Summit 2004 was held for the first time in an inn in the mountains of Austria.

Now the network has more than 80 international congregations from 32 countries and VICF congregation is one of them. The 42nd week of autumn has become the regular time for such an Annual Event.

Then in the mountains of Austria, the idea of expanding the work globally was born. This time, too, Terry Hoggard assembled the Global ICF network, which together with four similar networks organized the first Global Conference in Hong Kong in 2011. Global ICN gatherings are organized every three years.

– Pastor Arto Sädeaho –

 

From October 15-17, I had the privilege of attending the FEIC Summit in Riverside, Hungary, an eye-opening experience that I hope to share with you. This was my first time at the summit, and I was eager to connect with other attendees.

On the first day, I engaged with several inspiring individuals during a round-table discussion, laying the foundation for meaningful relationships. Following this, I participated in a leadership session led by Dr. Aaron Cole, the pastor of Life Church in Wisconsin, and was moved by Mark Oais, who shared his impactful experiences ministering to Muslims in Turkey.

The second day was equally enriching, focusing on the discipleship curriculum and the continuation of our leadership discussions. I had the pleasure of meeting Phil and Jane Heeke, who introduced me to effective discipleship programs for both men and women.

The final day featured further leadership discussions and a panel in the afternoon, deepening our collective insights and strategies.

Overall, the summit was a transformative experience, allowing me to forge valuable connections and acquire essential tools for ministry. The atmosphere was incredibly uplifting, as we came together to pray, share challenges, and encourage one another in our endeavors.

I am immensely grateful to our church for sending me to the FEIC Summit. This experience reassured me that the Lord’s work among international churches is thriving in Europe. Together, we can continue to advance this mission and bring hope to many.

– Pastor Edsel Klit –