LPA Network


Paris, France

May 29 – June 1, 2009: REPORT

France is a difficult place spiritually, and poses unique challenges for ministry. But the Lord is opening incredible doors for the Luis Palau Association. And as we step forward in faith, trusting the Lord to guide us and the local churches, we look to fan the flame for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Luis’ recent trip to Paris, France was encouraging. He used the time to meet with pastors, encourage leaders, plan for the future, and become better acquainted with the unique spiritual climate in France. God truly blessed the time. 

Church leaders came from around the nation – including pastors in Paris, Normandy, and Marseille. Marseille pastors are preparing for a citywide pastors and youth conference in May, 2010 and a full-scale festival in May, 2011, God willing.

Luis also took part in a multi-church Pentecost conference over the weekend, clearly proclaiming the Gospel to thousands of Parisians and leading hundreds in a decision for Jesus Christ. (Local believers rented out the largest indoor arena in Paris for the event.) Luis also challenged believers to take a stand for Christianity in this difficult nation.

With plans to return to France throughout the next two years, God willing, our goal is to help unite the churches, encourage and facilitate evangelism, and win as many people to Jesus Christ as possible throughout the nation.

Interesting facts about France:

  • Conservatively estimating, there are two occultic practitioners for every one medical doctor in France.  (Those involved in the occult far outnumber Christians.)
  • The average size of an evangelical church in Paris is 150 people – with fewer than 200 churches in the city limits.
  • There is a large number of immigrants from Latin America – especially Chile, Colombia, and Peru.  As a result, Spanish is widely spoken and Luis is widely known.
  • Although religious freedoms are under attack in France (it is still illegal to proclaim the Gospel in public), there are many open doors for outreach.  Government officials are slowly opening up to Christians and beginning to dialogue about ways they can work together.
  • Over the next year, the three main Christian denominational associations are coming together to form one overarching group.  This is just one more example of the unity and partnership that is taking place among believers in France.

Be encouraged! The Lord is moving in France. Pray with us for guidance in how, together, we can take part in the efforts.