THE PRODIGAL NATION

It was once the center of Christianity on earth. For centuries, Italy’s rich culture has been closely intertwined with the church. Today, Italy boasts thousands of massive cathedrals , but beneath the beautiful church facades lies a country on the brink of moral and spiritual decay. The meaning and significance of the Christ of Christianity has been deeply obscured by secular humanism and the senseless race of a self-centered, materialistic society.

Under its Tuscan sun, the real Italy is plagued by corruption, communism and the mafia. But these social concerns do not compare to Italy’s waywardness from the God it once knew. The situation is dire. Italy is truly The Prodigal Nation.

ITALY IS STRATEGIC

As part of Western Europe, Italy is a strategic spiritual battleground that Christianity cannot bear to lose. An overwhelming number of decisions steering the course of the world are made in Western Europe. Our ministry hopes to one day be a training ground for European missionaries who, in turn, will reach their continent for Christ.

• Member of the G8 - 7th largest economy in the world
• Population of 59 million
• Vatican – The seat of influence for the Catholic Church - 2 billion followers
• Influencers of the world in fashion, food, culture, arts, media
• Milan - the “Los Angeles” of Europe, Rome one of top 5 mega cities of Europe
• World Cup 2006 champion & host for Winter Olympics 2006
• Tourism - the peoples of the world come to Italy
• Largest mosque in all of Europe is in Rome – Immigration is a growing issue

THERE IS HOPE

One thing we know from the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 is that the Father is waiting with open arms to receive those who turn back to Him. We have begun to see a revival in Italy. His Spirit is moving.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20