Our European Vision
Transforming and equipping young adults to Grow in their gifts, Thrive in their purpose, and Serve those around them through Young Adult Retreats, Mentor Programs, and Spiritual Gift Workshops.
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Empowering Young Adults & Strengthening Churches Across Europe
At GTS Life, we are committed to helping individuals, small groups, and churches grow in their spiritual gifts and thrive in their God-given purpose. Since 2012, our work has taken us to France, Italy, Albania, Romania, and Greece, partnering with local churches to disciple young adults, develop leaders, and create lasting spiritual impact. From February to April 2025, my family and I will return to Italy for a three-month mission continuing this vital work.
A Generation Drifting Away from Faith: But there is HOPE
Across the world, young adults are increasingly disconnecting from their faith. In Europe, where secularism continues to rise, fewer young people are identifying as Christians. According to Pew Research, the percentage of people under 30 who identify as "religiously unaffiliated" has grown significantly in recent years. For example, in Western Europe, the median share of young adults identifying as Christian is just 25%.
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Similarly, in the United States, nearly 70% of young adults who grew up in church leave the faith after high school, according to LifeWay Research. This trend points to a broader global crisis requiring immediate and intentional action.
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The data is clear: young adults are leaving the church, and many struggle to find their purpose in Christ. But we believe there is hope. GTS Life is dedicated to addressing this growing need by disciplining young people, helping them discover their spiritual gifts, and empowering them to serve their communities purposefully.
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Empowering the Next Generation of Believers in Italy
1. Discipleship and Spiritual Growth
We believe young adults are critical in shaping the church's future. During our mission, we aim to mentor 20 young adults directly and provide leadership training to an additional 50 through group workshops and a retreat. Our goal is to deepen their faith, help them understand their identity in Christ, and equip them to use their spiritual gifts for Kingdom impact.
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2. Evangelism and Community Outreach
​Our mission includes practical, hands-on workshops on evangelism and outreach, partnering with local churches to help young adults share their faith effectively. We will train them to become ambassadors for Christ in their communities, potentially reaching hundreds of people across the region.
"Before GTS Life, I felt lost in my faith, unsure of how to live it out. Now, after attending a retreat and receiving mentoring, I feel confident in my purpose and excited to serve in my church!" —Theo
3. Leadership Development
Raising young leaders is at the core of our work in Italy. We will offer leadership training for those seeking to take on greater responsibilities in their local churches or even plant new churches. This mission is a vital step in establishing a long-term leadership development program, preparing the next generation of church leaders.
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4. Building Lasting Relationships
Our work is focused on fostering long-term partnerships with churches in Vicenza and Ferrara. These relationships are crucial to building sustainable discipleship programs and leadership initiatives. Our hope is to lay the groundwork for future short-term and long-term missions, helping to grow a vibrant network of young Christian leaders across Europe.
Impact of Our Past Work
Over the last 12 months alone, we have seen incredible growth with so many we have been able to serve:
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​12 young adults baptized and actively growing in their faith
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Ongoing mentorship and leadership development
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Close relationships with churches in Vicenza and Ferrara, who have eagerly invited us back to continue this work​
Our partnership with these churches will be instrumental in reaching more young adults and strengthening the local Christian community.
Long-Term Vision
This mission is just one step in our long-term vision for Italy and Europe. We envision:
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Expanded outreach into other parts of Europe
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Building a solid network of young Christian leaders
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Establishing sustainable discipleship and leadership programs
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Sparking church planting and evangelism movements across Europe
Our ultimate goal is to empower young adults to lead and serve, creating lasting transformation in their churches, communities, and beyond.
Be Part of the Solution
The statistics show the urgent need for action, but together, we can provide a solution. Your prayers and financial support will directly contribute to discipling and equipping Italy's next generation of church leaders. Now is the time to invest in the next generation of Christian leaders. Your support today will directly impact tomorrow's church. Whether through a one-time gift or joining our Thrive Donor Program (a monthly donor) your generosity will help us expand GTS Life's impact and continue building a sold European Christian community.
Join us in making a difference!
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." -Galatians 6:9 (NIV)