Welcome to the

Acts 29 Europe Conference

Riga, Latvia

15 - 17 May 2024

Register now

Isaiah is a book of hopes and fears. Multiple times throughout the book, the prophet addresses the people’s legitimate fears.

Fear of judgement, fear of enemies, fear in difficult circumstances. That fear is real, but it is not the last word. In 41:10 God says:

Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Our fears are banished by faith in the God who strengthens us, and are replaced by hope in his promised future. That is a message that we need to hear as planters and pastors. It is a message that our culture needs to hear.

So come to Riga with your hopes and fears and let the word of God strengthen you and help you. Surround yourself with people from across Europe and the world who face these same fears and harbour that same hope. Encourage them, and be encouraged by them.

Message From The Director

Acts 29 exists to facilitate church-planting efforts all across the continent.

We care about all sorts of contexts: rural, inner-city, urban, remote, high-density city centre – and we want to see people from all backgrounds and walks of life meet Jesus. We care about all of Europe’s 51 countries and 750 million inhabitants.

Every two years we organise a major conference to bring together practitioners from all over the world to think about church-planting in their context. We move the conference around major cities in Europe in the hope that we can serve churches and planters in that region.

This year we will be in Riga, Latvia. The Baltics (Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia) in the north-eastern corner of Europe, surrounded by Russia and Belorussia to the east and south and Poland to the west, represent a unique context. Evangelical witness is present, although with estimates of evangelicals being between 1 and 7 percent, there is still much to do.

We pray that this conference will be a catalyst for church-planting in the north-eastern part of Europe. We pray that during this conference, meaningful partnerships will be born that will nurture a humble yet ambitious mission for Jesus. We pray that people will meet Jesus as a direct result of our gathering together in Riga.

So whether you live in Europe or further afield, we invite you to join with us.

And in particular if you live in the Baltics, please come and help us work out how best we can support you in your mission.

Philip Moore

Regional Director - Acts 29 Europe

PHILIP MOORE

Europe Regional Director

Philip Moore is married to Rachel and they have 5 children. In 2006 Phillip moved to France to pastor a church in the Paris area. Since then, by God’s grace, the church has planted 3 daughter churches and trained and sent a couple to plant a church in the centre of Paris.

TOMÁŠ HENŽEL

Central Europe Regional Lead

Tomáš is married to Silvia and they have 3 children. He is a bi-vocational church planter in Slovakia. After replanting in Nitra, their family is planting out to Bratislava since the Summer of 2018. Tomáš leads a small network of planters in Slovakia longing to see Christ’s glory imaged in many new churches in the region.

Central Europe Regional Lead

JD GILMORE

South-Eastern Europe Regional Lead

Jonathan, born into a missionary family, grew up in Italy and was touched by grace as a teenager. Passionate for the spread of the gospel in Italy, with his wife Annette, they have been involved in church planting (and growing), most recently in Palermo (Sicily). He now coordinates Impatto (A29 in Italy).

SCOTT ZELLER

Vice President – Acts 29 Global

Scott serves as the Vice President of Acts 29 Global. Previously, he served in church planting in India and then for many years as Executive Pastor at Redeemer Church of Dubai, a church with a strong emphasis on planting new congregations in the UAE and to Lebanon, Kuwait, and beyond. Having been actively involved in fostering church planting initiatives across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, Scott brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his current focus of supporting Acts 29’s worldwide church planting ambition. He is married to Angela, and together they are raising four wonderful children.

Vice President Acts 29 Global

Please Note: Accommodation booking is done separately directly with the hotel.
Be sure to book your accommodation as soon as possible.
For more information on accommodation options scroll down.

For accommodation, conference attendees have the option to stay at any hotels in the vicinity of the conference centre. However, if you prefer to stay at the same hotel where the conference is being held, please find below the information to book with the Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Riga.

Book accommodation

Book accommodation

MAY 18-23, 2024

Tour the Seven Churches of Revelation with Kerem Koç

Two millenia ago, Jesus revealed himself to the Apostle John. The Word given to the Seven Churches of Asia is the same inspired scripture that teaches Christ’s churches today.

You’ll be accompanied by both an expert guide and a trusted church leader as you explore the depths of Scripture in the midst of the ruins where that Word was first

Make a booking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

TRAVELLING TO RIGA

Do I need a visa to travel to Latvia?

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Please check this link to determine if you require a Schengen Tourist Visa for Latvia. If you need a Letter of Invitation to apply for a visa, please contact Ronell King (ronellking@acts29.com) as soon as possible. The visa application process can take several weeks, so please notify us promptly.

Where is the nearest airport?

The closest airport to the conference venue is Riga International Airport (IATA code: RIX), which is the largest airport in Latvia. The hotel is approximately 30-40 minutes from the airport (depending on traffic).

How do I get from the airport to the hotel?

To get from the airport to the hotel, we recommend using the BOLT e-hailing service or you can contact RedCab Taxi at redcab@redcab.lv. The approximate one-way fare is EUR 35, but this may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. Please note that Uber does not operate in Riga.

IMPORTANT: Riga has multiple Radisson Blu hotels, so it’s essential to ensure your taxi driver has the correct hotel and address: Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel, Elizabetes Street 55, Riga. Providing this information will help you reach the conference venue without any issues.

ATTENDING THE CONFERENCE

Which meals are included in the price?

For Europe partners and candidates, the conference fee includes refreshments during breaks, lunch on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, as well as dinner on Tuesday and Wednesday. For all other attendees, it includes refreshments during breaks, lunch on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and dinner on Wednesday. Breakfast is provided daily as part of your accommodation. Keep your name badge visible as proof of payment and for access to the restaurant during the conference.

What weather can I expect and is there a dress code?

In May, expect an average high temperature of 18ºC (64°F). No specific dress code is expected. Indoor areas will be air-conditioned, so dress comfortably. If you plan to explore the city, wear comfortable walking shoes.

The cost is still quite high for me, is there help available?

Limited sponsorships are available, primarily for planters in Europe. Contact Gary Cousins (gary.cousins@acts29.com) to apply for sponsorship..

Can I make a donation to help others attend the conference?

Donations to advance church planting in the Baltics and greater Europe are appreciated. You can add a donation during the booking process or inquire about wire transfers by contacting Gary Cousins (gary.cousins@acts29.com).

Is the conference just for lead pastors or can I bring other people from my church?

The conference is designed for church leadership and planting teams, including lead pastors, executive pastors, elders, and core leaders. Partners of these leaders are also welcome.

What if I am travelling with my spouse but do not wish to participate in the conference?

Due to contractual restrictions, we cannot offer a “meals-only” option. You can pay the conference fee, which covers specified meals, or opt to waive the conference fee. The latter option provides access to the restaurant for breakfast only, and other meals are your responsibility.

Is there a children’s programme?

Typically, we don’t encourage young children to attend our conferences. If you’re traveling with a baby, please inform us during registration for room preparation.

What is your cancellation policy?

Full refunds are available for bookings cancelled on or before December 25th. For cancellations made between December 25th and March 17th, a 50% refund will be issued. Unfortunately, no refunds can be provided for cancellations made after March 17th. However, we offer you the option to donate your reservation instead. Please note that all cancellations are subject to a 10 € administration fee. In the unlikely event of a full cancellation by the hotel, all payments (minus transaction fees) will be promptly reimbursed.

What if my flights are cancelled?

We recommend travel insurance to cover unforeseen travel disruptions.

Are there opportunities for my organisation to sponsor this event?

For sponsorship information, visit our exhibitors section on the webpage and complete the application form.

HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

Can I come earlier to the conference or stay on?

Yes, you can! You can book accommodation for the conference, as well as pre and post-conference nights, directly with the hotel using the Acts 29 registration link. For all accommodation inquiries, please contact the sales office (latvia.sales@radissonblu.com) at the Radisson Blu Latvija Conference & Spa Hotel.

Do I have to stay at the same hotel?

We selected this specific location in Riga because it allows a group of our size to have accommodation and meetings in one place. From experience we find that most attendees come to the conference to network and connect with like-minded individuals. Staying at the same venue where meetings are held is designed to enhance this networking experience.

Are there any additional charges I should be aware of?

Any additional drinks or meals purchased must be settled at the time of purchase using a credit card or charged to your room, to be settled upon departure.

Is there a on-site spa, and is it included in the fees?

ESPA Riga is one of the largest internationally recognised five-star day spa centres in the Baltics. It offers award-winning spa facilities, including heat and water experiences, private relaxation suites, luxurious face and body treatments, manicure, pedicure treatments, and a modern fitness studio. For more information, please access their menu. Costs for ESPA Riga are not included in your accommodation or conference fees.

EXPLORING RIGA

What is there to do and see in Riga before or after the conference?

Riga Tourist Information Centre: Located just 500 metres from our hotel, the centre offers a wealth of information about Riga’s attractions and activities. You can visit their offices in person for personalised recommendations.

Attraction Within Walking Distance

The Old Town (1km/12 min walk): Explore the oldest part of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere(directions).
Riga Central Market (1.27km/14min walk) Admire the unique architecture and wide selection of produce, including local goods from farmers. Don’t miss the renovated Gastronomy Pavilion for tasty pastries and baked delicacies (directions).
Latvian National Museum of Art (0.3km/5min walk) Visit this historic museum with an outstanding collection of national art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs (directions).

Where can we find something to eat or drink outside the hotel?

Riga Tourist Information Centre The Riga Tourist Information Centre can provide suggestions for dining and drinking options to suit every taste.

Where can we find places to buy basic necessities (eg. pharmacy, grocery store)?

The Galleria Riga (300m/5min walk): This shopping centre offers clothing stores, a grocery store, restaurants, coffee shops, and a rooftop bar with panoramic city views (directions).

Is there a pharmacy close by?

The Pharmacy Saules (550m/8min walk): Located nearby, this pharmacy is open until 10 pm, providing essential services and products (directions).

Thank you for your interest in participating in the Acts 29 Europe Conference.

As our conference focuses primarily on church planting and equipping church leaders, we have limited space available for exhibitors. Therefore, we carefully select exhibitors whose products and services directly support church planting efforts in Europe and can provide valuable resources and support to church planters.

If you believe your offerings align with our mission and criteria, please complete the form below to express your interest. Our team will review your application and, if applicable, get in touch to discuss the logistics and details of exhibiting at our conference.

We appreciate your understanding of our commitment to maintaining the conference’s core focus on church planting in Europe.

Application

Volunteer and Be a Part of the Team!

Similar to your local church, events require a dedicated team of volunteers to ensure their seamless and successful execution behind the scenes. We deeply value your willingness to contribute and play a crucial role in making our conference a resounding success.

As we continue to fine-tune the details of the event, we want you to know that your support means the world to us. While some aspects may still be a bit hazy, rest assured that as the conference date approaches, everything will become crystal clear.

Currently, we’ve identified three categories for volunteering: Logistics, the Audio/Visual Department, and the Creative Department.

Logistics volunteers may assist with welcoming attendees, guiding them to their seats, aiding with registration, distributing conference goodies, and even setting up banners.
The Audio/Visual Department will involve tasks like working with cameras, helping manage worship slides and speaker notes, and assisting with equipment setup or teardown.
The Creative Department is all about capturing the essence of the conference. Volunteers in this area may edit photos and videos for live posting, assist with creating highlight reels, post content on social media platforms, and engage with our online audience.

So, what can you do right now? We invite you to sign up for one or two slots in any of these categories. Specific roles and requirements will be communicated closer to the event based on needs and the number of volunteers.

Should you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to Ronell King at ronellking@acts29.com.

Thank you for being a crucial part of this conference’s success!