The opening of a new Assemblies of God church in Sweden was met with great emotion by leaders and believers. The moment carries special symbolism: the country that sent missionaries to Brazil in the early 20th century now receives the Gospel message in return. Pastor José Wellington Bezerra da Costa, visibly moved, highlighted the significance of this movement. "It touches the heart to know that the work began there, and today we have the opportunity to sow again in that land," he said.
The origins of the Assemblies of God in Brazil are directly linked to Sweden. In 1910, missionaries Gunnar Vingren and Daniel Berg left Scandinavia for Brazil, where they founded the denomination that now counts millions of members. Now, over a century later, the church returns to its country of origin, a gesture many see as both a closing of a cycle and a new beginning.
The new congregation is located in Stockholm, the Swedish capital, and aims to serve both the Brazilian community living in the country and Swedes themselves. Local leaders hope the church will serve as a base for expanding evangelistic work throughout Scandinavia.
Sweden: A Land of Spiritual Contrasts
Sweden is globally known for its high levels of secularization. Recent research indicates that more than half of the Swedish population identifies as atheist, agnostic, or non-religious. According to a 2025 Pew Research Center study, 52% of Swedes fall into this category, with 28% identifying as convinced atheists, rejecting any belief in God or an afterlife.
This scenario presents a major challenge for Christian churches, but also a unique opportunity for witness. In a society that values reason and science, the Gospel message can find open hearts, especially when presented with love and respect.
The Bible reminds us in Romans 10:14: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" (NIV). The opening of the church in Sweden is a response to that call, bringing the Word to a nation that needs to rediscover hope in Christ.
The Role of the Church in Secular Contexts
Working in a country with a high rate of atheism requires different strategies than those used in Christian-majority nations. The church in Sweden will need to be creative and sensitive to the local context. Instead of aggressive approaches, personal testimony and community service can open doors for dialogue.
The apostle Peter instructs: "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" (1 Peter 3:15-16, NIV). This passage is an essential guide for operating in secular environments.
The church can also learn from biblical examples of mission in foreign lands. The apostle Paul, when preaching in Athens—a city full of idols and philosophies—used the local culture as a starting point to proclaim the unknown God (Acts 17:22-31). Similarly, the Assemblies of God in Sweden can find bridges of communication with Swedish society.
Hope Amid Skepticism
Despite the challenging numbers, there are reasons for hope. The very growth of atheism has sparked a movement of spiritual seeking in some sectors. Many Swedes, dissatisfied with existential emptiness, are open to exploring questions of faith. The local church can be a beacon of light in this landscape.
Jesus said: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12, NIV). This promise is for all peoples, including the Swedes. The new congregation is not just a building; it is a living testimony that the Gospel continues to transform lives, even in the most secularized societies.
The opening of this church reminds us that the mission of the church knows no borders. As Jesus says in Matthew 28:19: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations" (NIV). And Sweden, with all its challenges, is also a nation that needs to hear the message of love and hope that only Christ can give.
Comments