We reach into different worlds and circles. I have previously been to China and visited unregistered congregations in the Word of Life network, but since the situation in the country has gradually changed, it is more difficult now. However, in March this year I had the opportunity to go to Shanghai and speak in a registered church there. It is a former Bible school student who started an international church a number of years ago, where only people with foreign passports can come and become members. The church has grown and now has two well-attended Sunday services.

It was an experience to teach and preach to people from different countries and continents, most of whom are highly educated, many with responsible tasks and central positions in large companies, who have found a spiritual home in Shanghai in a congregation that is close to the Word of Life. I was particularly impressed by the meeting with the youth group, where children of successful parents find their own way to faith and had many insightful and thoughtful thoughts and comments when we talked about suffering and surrender, among other things.

The connection with us was evident in many ways, in worship, prayer, an outward focus and taking steps of faith. As in Uppsala, they also have a focus on mission. They regularly send out teams to South Asian countries and what the pastor and several of his co-workers have received in Uppsala, goes on to places where we ourselves have not been. New people are reached, new areas and places are opened!
An interesting consequence of this activity is that when some of the members later move on in the world, they take with them what they have learnt in Shanghai. Our church and Bible school are making an impact!

/Staffan Moberg, pastor and Bible teacher in the Word of Life church