As Europe grapples with increasing debates over migration, a new initiative seeks to bridge gaps between diaspora and indigenous European churches. The European Evangelical Alliance has launched the One People Network, fostering collaboration across cultural lines.
This network was introduced at the Hope for Europe 2026 event, a gathering in Golem, Albania, featuring about 250 evangelical leaders under the theme “Hope in Uncertain Times.”
Rev. Dr. Israel Oluwole Olofinjana, the network’s coordinator and founding director of the Centre for Missionaries from the Majority World, highlighted the importance of this initiative. “It’s been a conversation in the pipeline for some time, at least as far back as five, six years,” Olofinjana remarked, noting the critical timing amidst current migration debates.
From Nigeria to the UK: A Personal Journey
Since arriving in the UK from Nigeria in 2004, Olofinjana has intentionally avoided leading a congregation defined by a single diaspora. “I’ve worked among the English Baptists as a Baptist minister, and I’ve led three Baptist churches and one independent charismatic church,” he shared, emphasizing multicultural engagement.
His experience has been enriched by founding the Centre for Missionaries from the Majority World, which provides contextual training for European-bound missionaries. Additionally, his academic work focuses on African diaspora Christianity.
Waves of Migration Shaping Churches
Olofinjana has observed multiple migration trends influencing churches across Europe. In 2004, missionaries from nations like South Korea, Zimbabwe, China, and Nigeria arrived in the UK. Later, around 2014 and 2015, waves from Iran followed due to Middle East conflicts, and more recently, political tensions in Hong Kong led to another influx.
Russia’s conflict in Ukraine has also contributed to this evolving landscape, as Ukrainians integrate into European churches.
Beyond Simple Arrangements
While some migrant churches merely lease spaces from European congregations, others are establishing deeper relationships. “Some of them are landlord-tenant relationships,” Olofinjana explained. “But others are intentionally building relationships and are going beyond just landlord-tenant and actually doing joint services together, or running some missions together, or discipleship together.”
National evangelical alliances, like those in Switzerland and the UK, employ diaspora or intercultural leaders to bridge cultural divides, with examples including Egzon Shala in Switzerland and Olofinjana’s past role in the UK.
Challenges and Solutions
Olofinjana identifies societal views on migration as a significant barrier, both within and outside the church. “Many in our churches are not fully convinced that migration is a force for good,” he noted. He advocates for discipleship that emphasizes a theology of migration, helping congregations understand migration through a biblical lens.
Vision of Unity
Inspired by Revelation 7:9, the One People Network aims for a Europe transformed by “every tribe, nation, and language.” The network seeks to unite evangelical churches, acknowledge ethnic diversity, and foster youth participation.
Future plans include conferences, intergenerational dialogues, and theological reflection, with an emphasis on practical resources for church leaders. “We want to engage theologizing, how we do theology,” Olofinjana stated, highlighting the need for churches to address multicultural congregations effectively.
Scripture as a Guiding Principle
For pastors uncertain about addressing migration, Olofinjana urges a return to Scripture. “What does the Bible say about the stranger? How should we welcome the stranger?” he asked. He argues that Christian communities should focus on hospitality and welcoming strangers, thereby recognizing their humanity and engaging in cross-cultural missions.
© Christian Daily International
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
