A crisis in the national sense of Italian identity is resulting from social changes including immigration and multiculturalism.
Younger generations are more secularized. Additionally, some people want to be spiritual without belonging to a local faith body for corporate worship.
Religious minority groups may face stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination.
Churches are increasingly led and attended by immigrants – 73% compared to 40% of native Italians.
Prayer requests
Pray that God will help the district to ordain pastors and prospective pastors within two years.
Ask God to help the church develop robust theological learning centers benefitting not only Nazarenes, but other denominations as well.
Pray for God to bless local church community outreach efforts: helping poor and refugees, practicing hospitality and meeting felt needs.
Ask God to expand the influence of a project to translate Wesleyan theology into Italian, so that other churches will benefit from learning holiness theology.
