‘Reaching Carcassonne’ 2018 took place from 21–28 August, in partnership with La Voix des Prophètes, United Beach Missions (UBM) and with the support of La Maison de la Bible.
The team of 29, aged between 17 and 67, included students, professionals, civil servants and retired people from different countries in Europe. It was an encouragement to see several recent converts from the local church participating in the outreach.
For certain team members, ‘Reaching Carcassonne’ was their first opportunity to be trained in evangelism. Throughout the week, local neighbours were invited to a meeting on themes of ‘Is the Bible true? What does modern archaeology say?’ as well as to a showing of the film A Case for Christ for English speakers.
Recent terrorist attack
The church brochure contained a short reflection on the recent terrorist attack in Trèbes which helped to initiate conversations. Free literature (Bibles, French-Arabic New Testaments and Gospels) was also offered. Several Muslims accepted New Testaments in Arabic and French. A Turkish man, owner of a local kebab shop, was delighted to talk at length with the pastor and was eager to meet him again.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are active around Carcassonne. Two team members also spoke for two hours with some Mormons.
Four visitors came to the Sunday service after receiving the church leaflet during the week.
Many opportunities
About 20 English-speaking non-Christians came to see A Case for Christ and while several seemed touched by the message of the gospel, others went away with hard hearts. The team enjoyed great Christian fellowship and the encounters gave many opportunities to share the gospel.
