LATVIA

1.8 Million People

Latvia is a small Baltic country in Northern Europe with a population of about 1.8 million people. Throughout history it has been influenced and ruled by various powers, including German, Swedish, and Russian empires. Latvia first gained independence in 1918, but was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940 and later by Nazi Germany during World War II. After the war, Latvia was again incorporated into the Soviet Union for nearly 50 years. Latvia restored its independence in 1991 following the collapse of the USSR. Today it is a democratic nation and a member of the European Union and NATO. Although historically shaped by Lutheran and Catholic traditions, modern Latvia is largely secular, creating both challenges and opportunities for gospel ministry.

YOUR HOST

Lead Pastor

Toms Bermaks

Liene (wife), Imanuels(13), Natanaels(11), Nehemijs(5) & Joela(2)

City Center Church of Liepaja

SPIRITUAL DEMOGRAPHICS

While many people identify culturally with historic denominations such as Lutheran, Catholic, or Orthodox, only a small percentage actively participate in church life. A significant portion of the population identifies as non-religious or indifferent toward faith. In our city people are open to invitations to visit a church if invited by friends. Almost every week our church is visited by a visitor that only shows that people are looking for something more then what world has to offer.

MINISTRY OUTLOOK

Liepaja: 67,000 people

City Center Church of Liepaja was planted in October 2017

Church website

“Thankfully our church is reaching next generation and our youth ministry is thriving and we see that as a main opportunity to reach people in our town, because through youth we also reach their siblings and parents. So ministry to youth is our main target at the moment.
Also we are now understanding the importance of relationships and discipleship, therefore we want to see how we can do better in this area too. Because people have the information available, but not so much relationships, so we want to use this as an opportunity.
And also more men are attending and so we hope to use this and invest in men, also young youth men. “

COUNT ME IN

Acts 29 Europe Vision Trips – Saturday 31 Oct. to Monday 2 Nov.

$500 registration – includes meals, hotel accommodation, ground transportation, including a ride to and from the airport.

Vision Trip Registration

FAQ

Who are these Vision Trips for?

Vision Trips are designed for pastors, elders, and other leaders from Acts 29 U.S. churches who want to explore a potential church-to-church partnership after the conference.

What is the purpose of a Vision Trip?

The goal is to help guests explore a possible church-to-church partnership by spending time with a host church in its local context.

Am I expected to commit to a partnership by coming?

No. A Vision Trip is a season of discernment, not a commitment. Guests are asked to come with serious, prayerful consideration, but there is no expectation or obligation that the trip will result in an official partnership for either the guest or the host church.

What should I expect the trip to look like?

The trip begins immediately after the conference. On Saturday, after the conference ends, you will travel with your host pastor to their city and begin learning the local context. On Sunday, you will attend worship, share meals, hear the story of the church, and meet members and leaders. Monday is typically the day to travel home, though you may choose to extend your trip at your own leisure.

How long is the Vision Trip?

For most guests, the Vision Trip is centered on the days immediately following the conference: Saturday travel, Sunday with the host church, and Monday departure. Some guests may personally choose to stay longer, but the core trip is intentionally short and focused.