Right in the middle: the Church in Gambia

How are our sisters and brothers in The Gambia faring? District Apostle Stefan Pöschel was able to get a first-hand impression during his recent visit. One thing is clear: life is not easy for them.

The District Apostle visited several congregations in the small West African country in mid March. He was accompanied by Lead Apostle Tounkang Mané, who is responsible for the region, Apostle Gert Opdenplatz, and Bishop Pascal Strobel. 

Challenges in the congregations

During a meeting with district and congregational rectors, it became clear that the congregations in The Gambia are subject to significant external influences. This is reported on the website of the New Apostolic Church in Western Germany. Traditional beliefs, social expectations, and economic challenges shape the daily lives of many members. This can lead to people’s faith coming under pressure or in having to compete with other ideas.

At the same time, the congregations face the task of providing long-term guidance, particularly to young people. The desire for stability, a supportive community, and clear spiritual guidance was emphasised during the discussions. The ministers see themselves as having a role of great responsibility, one that requires both pastoral sensitivity and a clear spiritual focus.

Challenges in the region

Beyond The Gambia, concrete challenges have emerged across large parts of West Africa that are having a noticeable impact on church life, the New Apostolic Church Western Germany states. In several countries in the region, unstable socio-political conditions make daily life difficult for the members and congregations. Travelling to divine services is sometimes fraught with risks, and external circumstances can limit regular pastoral care.

In addition to this, the congregations face increasing competition from other religious groups. Some of these organisations attract members by offering material incentives or concrete offers of support. As a result, young people in particular find themselves caught between conflicting expectations, which also has an impact on the stability of our congregations.

Assurance of support

At the same time, it became clear that many congregations are openly living their faith under these circumstances and continue to be committed and involved. The willingness to take on responsibility and hold fast to their beliefs and support church life remains undiminished despite the external influences they face.

District Apostle Stefan Pöschel expressed his appreciation for the ministers’ dedication. He assured them of his prayers and thanked them for their commitment under often challenging conditions. “I keep you and your congregations in my prayers and am grateful for all that you do here,” said the District Apostle. He made a point of mentioning that the Regional Church would continue to accompany and support the congregations in West Africa.