about Cologne
16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.
— John 15:16-17
What to know about Cologne
The Need.
Over the last decade, Germany has received millions of displaced people from Muslim-majority countries. 800,000 of those refugees in Germany are Syrian. Cologne is such a strategic location because 20% of all refugees in Germany are settled in North-Rhine Westphalia, Cologne’s state. The people coming into Germany to seek asylum have experienced extraordinary trauma. They are leaving a place that is broken, heading to a country that looks put together. Unfortunately, Germany is only about 2% believing Christian. Although they can offer a safe home, they might never offer the incoming refugees a lasting hope through Christ.
The Response.
Seeing such a pronounced need among the people in Germany has warranted some sort of response. After much prayer and conversations with wise people, Matthew and Tabby began to see God opening doors to pursue a life on the mission field in Germany. This calling was confirmed through the support of High Street Church, Greater Europe Mission, and dozens of family members and friends. Matthew desires to know people deeply and to encourage those who are lonely or hurting with the truth of the Gospel of Jesus. Tabby desires to offer the hope of Christ to those who would otherwise miss out on what God has offered them. The need is great, but you can help Matthew and Tabby respond.
The Country.
Following World War II, Germany — like much of Europe — became disillusioned with a God they felt had failed them. Germany responded by becoming the economic powerhouse of Europe. Germany is a nation of hard-working people, but it also has the 4th highest median age of any country in the world. As their population ages, the need for more workers increases. The country has welcomed hundreds of thousands of immigrants to help with this labor crisis.
The Region.
Cologne is situated on the west side of Germany in the state of North-Rhine Westphalia. The mountains and hills to the south and southwest of the city help create a unique climate unlike that of most other German cities. The winters and summers are mild, and there are more rainy days in Cologne each year than London. To the south of the city you will find the Black Forest, home to many of Grimm’s fairytales.
The City.
The Romans first settled what is now Cologne around the year 9AD. Now, it is a bustling city of over 1 million people with 6 major universities including the University of Cologne, the largest university in the country. Because of immigration and international students, Cologne is diverse with over 180 languages spoken daily; nearly 40% of the city’s population is non-German.