7 May 2025

Eurasia Region

Spain

Over thousands of years, many diverse people groups moved into what is now Spain, contributing to its varied culture. For two centuries (16th and 17th), Spain’s powerful empire expanded with naval strength that supported its exploration of the New World, bringing a vast treasure into its coffers. This power waned over the centuries, and changes of power were frequent. Spain managed to remain neutral during both World Wars. From 1936-1939, it was torn apart by civil war, which resulted in a dictatorship. Following the dictator’s death, Spain transitioned into a democracy and experienced rapid economic growth and modernization. In 1986, Spain joined the European Union (EU) and has continued to prosper, the euro-zone’s fourth largest economy. The Church of the Nazarene established work there in 1981, often having to rent or lease facilities for ministry and mission. However, in recent years, it has become imperative that churches secure stand-alone buildings that facilitate ongoing ministry in communities. This is a story of one of those transitions in the dynamic city of Zaragoza.

416 Members

9 Fully Organized Churches

9 District Licensed, and 4 Ordained Ministers on 1 District

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During the 75th anniversary of Alabaster, a story was shared regarding the need for stand-alone church buildings in Spain. The video feature explained the critical need and called for Nazarenes to pray and give so that properties could be secured and congregations could move into safe spaces for worship and ministry. To see this video, click here.

Prayers have been answered, and God is richly blessing the congregation in Zaragoza, Spain, with a new building and new opportunities to share his grace and love in that city. The church is located in one of the poorer areas of the city and works among low-income families. The church is exploring collaboration with the Red Cross to distribute food to vulnerable persons and families in deprived neighborhoods within the city.

This property purchase was made possible through Alabaster Funds and through the generosity of Olathe College Church of the Nazarene. The demolition and reconstruction of the interior from a welding shop to a worship space was made possible with the help of a Nazarene Missions Team from Michigan. These teams are comprised of Nazarenes who go and serve in specific projects; they work across districts in their home country or travel internationally to assist local congregations in transforming spaces for ministry and missions. In these cross-cultural trips, team members see firsthand how God is moving around the world, and they experience worship with brothers and sisters in Christ.

The Nazarene Missions Team from Michigan that came to help in Zaragoza, Spain, consisted of 10 individuals who gave their time, energy, and compassionate service to see the old welding shop transformed into a worship and ministry space. This provided opportunities for the Michigan team to experience Spain and the unique culture of the church, a cultural mix of many coming from South America to join the local congregants. Together, they enjoyed special traditional meals, like arroz con pollo (chicken in seasoned rice and vegetables) and shared testimonies of how God is moving in their lives, both in Michigan and in Zaragoza. These Nazarenes were able to see God reflected in fresh ways through the eyes of different cultures.

There is much to celebrate in Zaragoza, as reports of breakthroughs in the community have been received, with over 20 new visitors coming to the church in recent weeks.

*Original story in the West Mediterranean Newsletter, November 2024

For more information about Nazarene Missions Teams, click here.

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