Five Weeks... Lasting Impact
A five-week sabbatical became an opportunity to strengthen churches, encourage believers, and serve alongside ECMI worker Eberson in Portugal. It is a reminder that even a short-term mission trip can leave a lasting impact.
When Jason set off from South Wales for Portugal, he wasn't beginning a new ministry. He was joining one that God was already building.
Serving alongside ECMI workers Eberson and Mdalanena and the local churches they support, Jason spent five weeks preaching, leading worship, teaching guitar, visiting homes, praying with families, and encouraging believers across the region.
His ministry quickly became part of the rhythm of church life. He preached in Portuguese and English, helped lead Bible studies and worship gatherings, served at a regional prayer event, and ministered in several churches, including youth meetings and Sunday services. To support the year's theme of discipleship, he also prepared a five-week sermon series that local leaders can continue using after his departure.
For Jason, one of the greatest joys was seeing the commitment of Eberson and his family, whose ministry extends well beyond a single congregation. Through their hospitality and relationships, Jason met pastors from Portugal, Brazil, and Angola, witnessing first-hand how local churches are strengthened as they serve one another.
His time in Portugal is a picture of what short-term mission can be at its best. Rather than replacing local leadership, it comes alongside it—encouraging, equipping, and strengthening what God is already doing.
As Jason reflected on the experience, he expressed deep gratitude for the churches and supporters who made the trip possible. The encouragement flowed in both directions. While he travelled to serve the churches in Portugal, he returned home encouraged by their faith, their welcome, and their passion to see disciples made.
Across Europe, partnerships like these remind us that God's mission is never carried by one person alone. As churches and workers serve together across countries and cultures, the body of Christ is strengthened, and the gospel continues to advance.
Behind Croatia’s deeply historical Christian culture is one of the smaller evangelical populations in Europe. Only 4 in every 1,000 people (0.4%) identify as evangelical followers of Jesus. 
In southern Spain, gospel fruit often takes time. Years of faithful love, patient discipleship and steadfast service may seem slow — until one day, you see what God has been growing. 
“Honey, we brought the kids on vacation!” It was a joke between Tamás and Virág as they arrived at Lake Balaton with 26 young people. But after years of walking alongside these teenagers, the words carried more truth than they realised.