Africa
Africa covers 22.3% of the world's surface and has 12.9% of the earth's population. Sadly, the population growth rate is slowly declining due largely to the effects of AIDS and the return of killer diseases like malaria and tuberculosis. With over 3,500 ethnic groups, Africa is the greatest remaining challenge for Bible translation.
In 2007, globalX had the opportunity to expand its presence in Africa by reaching out to Kenya, Johannesburg, Cape Town and parts of Northern Africa with over one hundred and forty trip participants. Thank you to those who served the men and women of a cotenant desperately in need of both spiritual and physical aid.
The most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched; they must be felt with the heart.
globalX Countries in Africa
Kenya
Kenya, located on the east coast of Africa, is no stranger to the devastation of poverty and disease. More communities are gripped with the effects of AIDS than any other life threatening infection present. This unfortunate circumstance makes mortality a constant reality. The country's population of over 36 million is mostly of the Christian faith and embraces freely, the evangelical style of ministry. However, there are still a large number of people groups within the Kenyan borders who have no church affiliation at all.
globalX has begun a great relationship with "410Bridge", an organization that partners churches with communities in Kenya. Through 410Bridge, we were able to help two different communities this year, Kiu and Ngaamba, both located an hour outside of Nairobi. Some of our work in Kenya includes assisting the youth of the community by building brick chicken coups, which will provide work and finances for numerous families. We have also held medical camps, soccer tournaments, and biblical training for local pastors. Kenya is an incredible country full of hope and spirit, despite such devastating odds.
North Africa
More information coming soon.
South Africa
More information coming soon.
Asia
Asia, which makes up a little over 23% of the world's surface area, is home to nearly 61% of our earth?s population. It is the only continent in which Christianity is not the largest religion, thus presenting itself as the greatest challenge for world evangelization.
globalX has been implementing trips to Asia since 2003. Because many of the places that we visit in Asia are greatly opposed to our message, it is both fascinating and challenging to be a part of this particular mission. Although we must be silent about where we are and why we are there, the gospel is influencing parts of this nation nonetheless.
The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all, the world needs dreamers who do.
globalX Countries in Asia
Cambodia
Its history riddled with upheaval, Cambodia has experienced relatively few years of sustained political peace. In a place that only recently began its recovery from the strife of communism and war, there exists something beautiful--a touch of hope called New Life Church. New Life not only exists to bring the life-changing message of Christ to those around them, but also endeavors to serve the community by running orphanages that love and care for children.
globalX has been working with New Life Church since 2005 and is currently involved in both of their orphanages. Together, we have partnered to create a vacation Bible school environment where we have the opportunity to see young children encouraged through the understanding of Christ and the hope that the gospel brings.
East Asia
Although the country that we serve in East Asia considers itself an atheist nation, more people are coming to Christ in this country today than in any other time in church history. Because the East Asian government is not supportive of church, underground churches presently serve as one form of meeting place for Christians.
globalX has been involved in East Asia since 2001 when the development of our campus ministry was begun on a campus of over 50,000 students. In 2003 we connected with an organization called CComm to help bridge the gap between the campus and the church.
Last year more than 25% of the students, who were presented the message of Christ through personal relationships, accepted Him as their Savior. A powerful percentage considering that only eight out of one hundred high school students have the opportunity to attend college, making these influenced pupils the future leaders of their country and the possible catalysts for a new Christian movement.
Pakistan
Pakistan is an Islamic republic with 164 million people, 95% of whom are Muslim. With the literacy rate projected at being between 25-38%, coupled with the majority of the nation's deep resentment against the "Christian" West for invading Afghanistan and Iraq, bringing the gospel into Pakistan does not come without serious cultural challenges. Although it is currently in a volatile political situation, there is still opportunity to bring influence into this country.
Regardless of the many obstacles, globalX was given the opportunity to train over 500 pastors and leaders in Biblical leadership, marriage, and intimacy with God. This year we were able to translate and utilize three resources: Next Generation Leader, Choosing to Cheat (both by Andy Stanley), as well as The Witness by Josh McDowell. Serving this country despite its political and religious impediments brings a great sense of triumph--not only personally, but also for the people of Pakistan.
Philippines
The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands located between the South China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. It is home to over 84 million people and is the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia.
Although fairly new, our relationship with Cebu in the Philippines has been one of tremendous encouragement. In a country mainly given to Roman Catholicism, the city of Cebu provides a church that follows closely the North Point strategy and continues to remain culturally relevant. Quest Fellowship Church has successfully implemented the "invest and invite" strategy. Approximately 75% of the 200 church attendees came as direct result of invest and invite. And a full 85% of church members are already connected in small groups. It is a privilege to walk along side Quest Fellowship Church in Cebu, Philippines as they continue to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
South East Asia
In order to reach a nation that has typically been closed to the Christian church, globalX has been involved in the development of small businesses in parts of South East Asia. The goal is to help aspiring Christian businesspeople start businesses that will enable them to plant new churches and provide support for existing ones. Many Christian leaders see business as the critical way to strengthen and grow the church in this part of the world. This year alone globalX was instrumental in creating and supporting seven new small businesses.
Teams whose strengths are in business will continue being sent to equip leaders with introductory business insight, developing methods, and strategic business planning. South East Asia needs people who have a passion for seeing one third of the world that is un-reached reached.
Europe
Europe, which makes up 17% of the Earth's surface, is home to approximately 12% of the world's population. Europe's ethnic diversity and long history of conflicts ultimately molded much of the political framework of nations today. Although the general public may claim an affiliation with Christianity, regular churchgoers would probably be under 10% of Europe's population.
globalX has been sending teams to work with national Christian leaders and their churches in Europe since 2000. In 2007, 250 people and 20 trips were made to various destinations across Europe. Because of the decline of Christianity, partnering with this continent and its Christian leaders is now more significant than ever before.
The world is not dangerous because of those who do harm but because of those who look at it without doing anything.
globalX Countries in Eurpoe
Bosnia
Bosnia--Herzegovina (BiH) was recognized as a country in 1992, but it was not until 1995 that it gained its full independence from Communist rule under Yugoslavia. It is currently a peaceful country, but undertones of bitterness and hurt remain. Bosnia was Europe's second poorest country before the Bosnian War and foreign aid presently serves as virtually the only source of income for the country. Although the three dominant religions are Catholic, Orthodox, and Islam, most view their religion only as their heritage and ethnic identities.
In 2005, three short-term teams traveled to Capljina, Bosnia, to help prepare for the launch of 5plus, a fantastic Bosnian version of KidStuf. In 2007, three short-term teams returned to Bosnia to help create a relevant Sunday service that connects not only with adults and children, but also with both insiders and outsiders.
Estonia
Estonia, with a population of only 1.3 million people, is slightly smaller than New Hampshire and Vermont combined. It is an impressive country with its own language and technological ingenuity. In 1991 Estonia won its independence from the Soviet Union and joined the European Union in 2004. Less than 1% of people living in Estonia follow Christ.
Since June 2005, North Point Ministries has been working with Peep Saar and the Going Up Leadership Team in Tartu, Estonia. Going Up is a high school and college ministry that is impacting students for Christ. In Oct. 2006 the leaders were able to open Risttee Church, a relevant church environment where leading people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ is the main objective. In May of 2006 Tagahoov, KidStuf Estonian style, started and won a city award in 2007 for affording a great environment for kids.
Our globalX teams have helped Estonia reach College students, train their small group leaders, assist in outreach camps, and initiate KidStuf. The church continues to grow and our hope is that the "less than 1% Christian" statistic quickly becomes outdated.
Macedonia
Macedonia, landlocked between Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, Greece and Albania, is a traditionally Orthodox country of beautiful landscapes and rich historical context. It is also considered one of the neediest countries in Europe. The evangelical movement there today is small, but it is growing despite residual religious restrictions and poor economic conditions.
globalX is working alongside the Evangelical Church in the capitol city of Skopje. Together they are developing environments that encourage outsiders to consider a relationship with God. Over our five-year affiliation we have been privileged to see the church make strides towards an irresistible environment, where people can come to know Christ. This effort has seen many students come to accept the Christian faith and move into positions of leaders in the church.
Romania
Romania, like other parts of Eastern Europe, experiences religious freedom as a treasured but threatened privilege. The government, at the urging of some Orthodox leaders, set tight restrictions for the registration and activity of other religious groups. Although constraints remain, the nation is seeing a mounting evangelical presence with several growing churches around the country.
globalX began helping Vox Domini Church in 2000. One of the goals is to target young adults in Timisoara, Romania, in an attempt to impact future leaders with the gospel. Since our partnership began, our teams have helped to build a multi-purpose leadership facility, which more than tripled church attendance. We have assisted with singles, college, and married life ministries and worship leader training. In addition, we have instituted training leadership in UpStreet and Married Life Live. We have also co-hosted a conference for over 300 pastors from all over Romania and further, partnered in producing two incredible concerts in the heart of the city. We are honored to work beside a Romanian leadership team whose commitment to reach the next generation, while impacting the current one, is unwavering.
Slovakia
Slovakia is a beautiful Central European country. Formerly the eastern part of the communist Czechoslovakia, it became an independent country in 1993, joining the European Union in 2005. In the past several years the country has undergone major sociological changes and has experienced unprecedented economic growth. The population of the country is in the region of 5 million people and the last census showed that 74% of Slovaks claim to be Catholic, 9% Reformed, and only 0.2% evangelical Christians.
This year, our globalX teams to Slovakia have worked alongside Slovak leaders (Josiah Venture, Kompas Café, and Christian Center New Beginning Church) to offer their country a healthy church that will transform society and lead people into a growing relationship with Christ. One purpose of this year's short-term trips was to help our partners keep a focus on ministry to "outsiders". We were also able to assist them with several youth and family camps, Decko, a Slovakian interpretation of KidStuf, and various other outreach activities.
Spain
In 1975 dictator Francisco FRANCO died. This led to a transition into democracy with rapid economic modernization. Spain today enjoys one of the most dynamic economies in Europe and is recognized as a champion of freedom. But with the recent onset of a large and thriving Muslim population, there is a sense of urgency for existing Christians to reach a very disenfranchised and passive religious culture.
globalX has initiated relationships with two different churches in Spain. The first church is in Vilanova, roughly 40 miles south of Barcelona, and more recently in Sevilla, located in southern Spain.
The church in Vilanova is made up of a small, but very talented team with an incredible vision for a relevant church in their community. They are currently meeting once a month, and are focusing on community groups during the "off Sundays".
Sevilla's church began with one man and a vision. He and a group of close to 50 people started the church on Sundays in a local park. Recently the group has moved into a new facility in a booming, young neighborhood and the church has an incredible team who are eager to impact their community.
Ukraine
After years of tyranny and conflict, the Ukraine has finally begun to climb out of its post-Communist economic oppression. Although the nation is in financial crisis, steps are being taken toward making the country free from corruption and political strife. Most Ukrainians place their faith in the Ukrainian Orthodox and Catholic Churches. But the numbers of emerging evangelical Christian churches are growing.
In 2006 globalX started a ministry to the business people of the Ukraine. Teams made up of businessmen and women from Buckhead Church, Browns Bridge Community Church, and North Point Community Church are being sent to present one-week business symposiums in selected Ukrainian cities. The mission is "to lead business and community leaders of the former Soviet Union into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, equipping them professionally and spiritually to change their world."
Latin America
South America is the fourth largest continent on earth and is home to more than 371,000,000 people. It is divided politically into twelve independent countries and the continent extends from Punta Gallinas, Colombia, in the north to Cape Horn, Chile, in the south. With the exception of Brazil and Ecuador, the national capitals have the largest populations and are the economic, cultural, and political centers of the countries. Although there is a tremendous Roman Catholic influence, globalX has seen explosive growth in the partnership churches throughout parts of South America.
Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it.
globalX Countries in Europe
Bolivia
Bolivia is located in the center of South America. Bolivia is about three times the size of Montana, and has a population of about 8.5 million people. Bolivia is South America's remotest country. It is approximately 65% Indian, and due to its isolation, has not been influenced by outside values and customs, retaining its distinctly Andean culture. Santa Cruz is a large city located on the edge of the Amazon Rain Forest. The Christian community there is small, but growing.
For the last four years we had have the privilege of working along side one of North Point's missionaries, Miriam Philips, in Santa Cruz to build an auditorium for the church Dios Es Amor (God is Love). This auditorium will help the church in their efforts to reach their community for Christ.
Brazil
Brazil, the largest nation in terms of arable land in the world, also holds the record for the second largest Japanese population outside of Japan. The country is 85% Catholic and has a reputation for valuing family and people. Brazilians are also well known for their love of music and soccer!
globalX is partnered with a church called Capela da Graca, Church of Grace, in a middle class city of about 700,000 people, in southwest Brazil. The church's goal of becoming a model church in their country has been enhanced by North Point's strategic support in service programming, Community Groups, Crown Ministries, KidStuf ("kids+" in Brazil), Up Street, Starting Point and leadership training as well as through financial resources. Capela da Graca has grown exponentially; attendance has increased from 30 people to over 240 people on Sunday mornings and more than 200 people for KidStuf, in just 3 years. We believe that many of the locals have found an exceptional church where they can grow in their relationships with Jesus Christ.
DR
The Dominican Republic, a beautiful Island in the Caribbean and home to more than 9.3 million people, has an estimated unemployment rate of at least 28% and 40% of the nation is considered impoverished. Although the Dominican Republic first earned its independence from Spain in 1865, the country has since re-achieved independence three times from various other countries, including the United States.
Throughout the last several years, North Point Ministries has had the opportunity to see great things happening in the city of Iguey, located in the southeast part of the country. The church with which we are affiliated has doubled in attendance and become hugely effective in their community and strategic in their mission. Because they believe so passionately in the mission to create conducive environments where people can come to know Christ, they have helped plant six other churches in different parts of their city.
Guatemala
According to recent studies by the World Bank, poverty in Guatemala is widespread and severe. Approximately 75% of the population is estimated to live below the poverty line, and 58% have incomes below the extreme poverty level, which is defined as the amount needed to purchase a basic basket of food. Two percent of the population owns 80% of the land, marginalizing and oppressing the largely Mayan majority.
The ministry we partner with (Medical Missions Ministry) is dedicated to helping villages all over Guatemala distribute medicine and share the gospel.
Even though this work is very different from our other types of outreach, there is a sound structure in place to help those in need in remote areas. This ministry is extremely effective in part because each clinic works out of a local village church. We estimate that over 100 of the local pastors are receiving help from Medical Missions Ministry so that they can offer care and love to people who would not otherwise be reached in this way.
Jamaica
The island of Jamaica is located just south of Cuba in the Caribbean. With a little more than 2 1/2 million people, Jamaica is about the size of Connecticut.
Pastor Ransford's church is seeking to be relevant in their community in order to lead the people of their community into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. About three years ago he became pastor of two churches. These churches have grown as Ransford has introduced Evangelism Explosion and begun raising up leaders and taking them through Biblical training. His vision is to teach his people and especially his leaders to know the Word of God and impart it to others. Ransford has also introduced small groups to his churches and he has begun taking young people in his church on mission trips to other islands. He has a vision of growing his churches as examples of relevant ministry and training up leaders to plant other churches and multiply them.
For the past several years North Point has been sending short-term trips to help Pastor Ransford create relevant environments to reach his community.
Mexico
Mexico, with a society made up from a mix of Spanish and Indian descent, extends from the southern part of North America, with coastal plains along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. The northern part of the country is mostly dessert, while the south of Mexico is a mountainous jungle containing ruins from centuries ago. Although Mexico has no official religion, 95% of the people claim to be Roman Catholic.
Over the last several years, globalX has had the privilege of working with Shalom Church and Horizonte Church, both in Mexico. Shalom Church in Merida, Mexico, located on the Yucatan Peninsula in a city of approximately 800,000 people, has developed incredibly as they continue to embrace the North Point strategy. Shalom Church has over thirty small groups, and has started several successful ministries for their children, youth, and singles.
We have also seen tremendous growth over the last year for Horizonte Church, located in Queretaro, northwest of Mexico City. Because of the success of attendees demonstrating the invest and invite method, the church has recently had to begin holding two services. Horizonte has launched its own versions of UpStreet and Waumba Land and will open KidStuf in the spring. It is truly amazing to see these culturally relevant translations taking hold of communities across our world.