EBMi: Walking Together and Watching Over One Another

Alan Donaldson
20 minutes ago
3 min read

A Partnership Born Through Collaboration

It is incredible what impact can be made when the Baptist principle of associating — of “walking together and watching over one another in ways known and to be made known” — is put into practice. The approach of the European Baptist Federation (EBF) to its ministries has always been about connecting, collaborating, and challenging one another.

In 1954, only a few years after the formation of EBF, one challenge was helping the German Baptist Union reconnect with its cross-cultural mission work in Cameroon. To support this effort, EBF member unions in France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, and Austria joined together with the German Union to form EBM.

From a European Mission to a Global Movement

Today, that collaboration has grown into EBMi, an international mission agency involving 28 nations. Over time, the organisation has intentionally shifted from a Eurocentric approach to a polycentric one, with leaders from Latin America, Africa, and Asia now playing key roles.

One of the defining values of EBMi is learning from one another across continents. Many of today’s strongest examples of church growth and church engagement with society are emerging from Latin America, Africa, and Asia.

EBMi is led by President Emma Mabidilala from South Africa and Vice President Lyse Killingstad from Norway. They are supported by a young and dynamic international board and staff team led by General Secretary Dr Michael Kisskalt.

Faithful in Challenging Times

The annual mission council is marked by joy as friends reconnect and stories of God’s faithfulness are shared. Participants listen attentively to God’s voice as young leaders testify to His provision and guidance.

This has been a financially challenging year for EBMi, with most projects experiencing a 10% reduction in resources over the last six months. Yet faith has not been dampened. The council theme, “God Will Provide,” was evident in the spirit of the gathering.

German Baptist Union President Rev Natalie Georgi reminded participants that “God makes our worries His priority so we can seek His Kingdom with all our hearts.” The many stories shared throughout the council stood as both witness to and proclamation of the Kingdom of God.

More Than Financial Support

EBMi Director of Fundraising and Promotion Michael Fischbeck emphasised that mission partnership is never simply about money.

“It is about knowing and being known,” he said. “It is about giving thanks for the passion, the ministry, the stories, the hope, and the resources.”

This spirit of mutual encouragement and shared mission continues to shape the work of EBMi around the world.

Stories of Transformation Around the World

Participants heard remarkable reports from many regions. In Cuba, around 700 people are currently being prepared or commissioned for church planting. Developments in theological education in Brazil and Argentina also demonstrated growing investment in leadership formation.

Alongside these encouraging stories came sobering accounts of persecution in India, as well as inspiring reports of vocational education ministries serving vulnerable communities.

EBMi also runs a volunteer programme. During the council, participants met two young Western European volunteers serving in South Africa, where they are being discipled within a vibrant community ministering in a township context.

Caring for Communities and Creation

EBF continues to support the Sahel Vert project in Cameroon through the carbon offsetting of international travel. This year alone, the initiative planted 28,350 new trees and contributed to nursery development and reforestation efforts across the region.

Across EBMi ministries, churches are planted, child protection is strengthened, aid is delivered, healthcare practices are improved, and local leaders are equipped for long-term ministry. Through it all, faith is deepened and communities are transformed.

Looking Ahead in Prayer

As EBMi continues its shared mission, prayers were requested for the five newly appointed executive committee members, as well as for new regional representatives Rev Rufus Kamalakar for India and Rev Dr Prof Claiton Kunz for Latin America.

Together, EBMi continues to embody the Baptist calling of walking together and watching over one another across nations, cultures, and generations.