As I wrote in my February Update about the influx of refugees coming into Germany and seeking asylum. In 2014, there were 65,700 new asylum applicants seeking refuge in Germany according to the U.N Refugee Agency. This makes Germany the largest recipient in Europe followed by France, Sweden, Italy, and the U.K.
Unfortunately, while I was in Germany last July, I was unable to see the work that current Pioneer Missionaries are doing among these refugees. To be honest, I have been completely unaware of the refugee status in Germany. In Heidelberg alone there are an estimated 15 areas set aside for refugees, the newest location is an old U.S. Army base that our government has turned over to the city of Heidelberg after the military left. This base is now used to temporarily house refugees until they can be placed in a permanent location. This one location holds about 1,500 refugees. These refugees are coming from Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Eastern Europe, North Africa, and it includes a small number of Iraqis.
There are a variety of ways to do ministry among these people group. Doing ministry in Germany is not just German focused, but it is focused on the many nationalities that are represented.
I continue to invite you to prayerfully consider becoming a partner in ministry. Please pray as I continue to complete tasks for Pioneers that I will stay focused on completing these tasks. Pray for diligence to remain in prayer and Bible reading and that financial needs will be met.
If you have spoken with me about making monthly donations please begin to do so as soon as possible. Anything given now will go toward Departure Expenses. If you would like to become a financial partner, you may do so by visiting www.pioneers.org/giving. My account number is 112086.
If there is ever an opportunity for me to speak to your small group, church, youth group, or even your individual family, please contact me to set a date.
In Christ,
Tyler A. Bowman