More and more people from a
state church background are seeking answers in Denmark’s free (non-state-sponsored) churches, according to
a recent report in Kristeligt Dagblad, Denmark’s daily religious news source. Pastors quoted in the report say that
free churches offer a relevant worship experience and attempt to be both
responsive and seeker-friendly.
“We hold fast to what we
believe,” says Jakob Viftrup, a free church pastor in Kolding. “And I’m not seeing people stay away. Quite the
contrary. People are searching for light during a time when it can be difficult
to discover what’s right—and what’s wrong. Among other things, we’re
experiencing a large incoming group who are leaving the folkekirke since the
approval of same-sex marriage.”
Some 325 free churches in Denmark represent a variety of denominational viewpoints,
from Baptist to Pentecostal. But free church leaders quoted in the Dagblad all seem to agree that outside
interest is up.
“I don’t have a number,”
says Baptist leader Mogens Andersen, “but I have the impression that we’re
experiencing an increased influx from the folkekirke (state church). There’s no
doubt that free churches are providing a place for the spiritual nature (of
life), and that’s what people are moved by.”
Meanwhile, Bishop Elisabeth
Dons Christensen of the Ribe Diocese admits that the folkekirke may have
neglected to preach some of the more “emotional” aspects of faith. So last year
she employed an additional outreach pastor in her area of Sjælland, on the west
coast of Denmark.
“As a church, we’ve preached
a simple, pure gospel,” she says. “We’ll continue doing so. But perhaps we’ve
underestimated the religious feelings of seekers. If we’re going to be the
folkekirke, we need to reach out to people.”
PRAY that
the Lord will continue to draw many more Danes to himself, and that they will
find answers to their questions in the person of Jesus Christ alone.
PRAY for
courage among Danish believers to recognize this window of opportunity as they
reach out to co-workers, friends and relatives.
PRAY that
the state church’s recent decision to endorse same-sex marriage would provide
new opportunities for a Biblical, compassionate response from Danish
evangelicals.
PRAY for
revival, unity and growth among free churches—as well as in the state church.
-posted by Bob