In Benidorm, there is enormous need for the Gospel and great potential for outreach in the area. The English Church, established in 1985, is actively engaged in this ministry. The church is under the oversight of Paraclete Christian Network International which is responsible for providing ministry and pastoral care throughout the year. Currently, Revd. Alan Robertson is resident in Benidorm for the most part of the year, ministering to the needs of all who come to the Church. During the summer months, visiting ministers from the UK staff the church. Wedding blessings can be arranged on request.
The congregation meets in the Gospel Centre, an attractive building at the heart of one of Benidorm’s chief tourist areas close to the sea-front. The Church is rented from the Scandinavian Congregation who own the building and also worship there. From time to time, where possible, the English Church shares activities and fellowship with them.
SUNDAY 11am MORNING SERVICE
WEDNESDAY 2pm BIBLE STUDY AND PRAYER
FRIDAY 11am HOLY COMMUNION
The address of the church is: The English Church, Torre Principado 12-13, Av. Madrid 26, Benidorm (Alicante), 03503 Spain
Tel: 0034 677738103 (Mobile)
Email: abrobertson9@outlook.com
Benidorm, known as the Jewel of the Costa Blanca’ by some, and ‘sin city’ by others, is without doubt one of the most popular cosmopolitan and most publicised tourist resorts in Southern Spain.
Recent estimates report that Benidorm attracts 3.8 million visitors each year, of whom 700,000 are British of all ages. This influx brings a range of benefits and problems, such as drunkenness, vandalism, violence, sexual promiscuity etc, particularly among young people.
Alongside the tourists, there are many thousands of permanent and semi-permanent British residents for whom Benidorm is home for part or the whole of the year. Among the estimated 50,000 in these groups, some are employed servicing the tourist industry, working in restaurants or bars, or in other sectors whilst others have chosen to retire to Benidorm, either completely leaving the UK, or living the winter months in second homes. Many of these have significant, physical, social and spiritual needs associated with leaving in a foreign country.
Even in sun-drenched Benidorm the young people are ever looking for reality. Those living in the latter years of their life are often reflective on perhaps a wasted life and ready for a presentation of the living Gospel. In fact, many have never been presented with the Gospel.
Current Needs
It is vital that this work continues and can expand to meet the ongoing needs prevalent among those visiting, and those residing in Benidorm. Prayer support is vital, especially in the spiritual climate of the area - so we ask for your prayers.
Financial support, of course, is ever welcome as this helps to supplement the income raised locally through offerings etc. The church needs to meet its rent, ministry, publicity and outreach costs each year.
Summary
If you would like any more information or are planning a holiday in Benidorm, please get in contact with us.
I say unto you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, for they are white already unto harvest. – John 4:35