The Opportunity
Italy is a country filled with contradictions. Though completely immersed in religion, there is little faith. Though in bondage to legalism and guilt for sin, it sees no need for salvation. Though guided by a holy man who is worshiped and adored, his righteousness, the Bible says, is like filthy rags. Though hundreds of thousands of priests, monks and nuns roam the land, the Roman Catholic Church in Italy will tell you, only 14% display any knowledge of the Bible and the Pope himself is not actually required to know or read the Bible.
Though signs of hopelessness can be found 'round every corner, the absence of grace presents an opportunity for sharing God's love. Most, when they think of Italy, they think of great food, historic sites and romantic vacations. But those who live here know that Italians are some of the loneliest and depressed people in the world. With out-of-control, bureaucratic, inefficient and corrupt government systems and a tax system that takes 45% of your income off the top, you'd be really depressed as well.
Italians have sought to find their peace with the law (which only produces guilt) and so conceivably, they are the most ready to receive the truths of the Spirit and God's grace. As the popular song says, "They fought the law and the law won." Galatians 3:22-23 states, "The Law imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed."
So despite what many say about Italy, there is HOPE for Italians. Italy is the one place that was all but bypassed by the reformation. It's time for Italy! God desires that all might know Him and His love. And we desire to make sure Italians hear of His marvelous love as demonstrated in the Christ. Would you be willing to help us?
You can give of your time, treasure or talent or all three! You can give your time by helping mobilize others to come help or by helping raise funds or awareness or both. You can give of your treasure by supporting our mission or our family or both. And you can give of your talent by coming and serving here in a short-term or long-term mission. we have tons of needs. And you'd be surprised what they are! From marketing to graphics to videography to teachers to you name it! The sky is the limit! Come join us today by helping with your time, talent or treasure to help us take advantage of this wonderful, God-given opportunity.