The Refuge

The Refuge is the youth ministry of Faith Baptist Church in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

We minister to the largest American population outside the United States. Just imagine – Anytown, USA, just in the middle of Europe. Well almost, except with a big hospital and a big airport. Obviously there are differences, and these differences create a unique environment to which we minister to day after day, week after week.

Despite the open mindedness, the cultural experiences of traveling the world, and the ability to spend one weekend in London, England, the next in Paris, France and the next in Rome, Italy or on a cruise on the Mediterranean, the students we see have the same basic needs that any student anywhere has. To be loved, accepted, respected and encouraged.

That is why we have created the Refuge ministries. We offer Refuge to all students: To those who fight with the loneliness of constant moving; To those who struggle with uncertainty, because their parents are fighting a war in a dangerous country; To those who are having difficulties coping with the changes that are taking place in their lives during their teenage years; To those who are wandering aimlessly, searching for purpose in their lives; To those who are seeking a place to fit in; To those whose hearts are hurting; To those who are seeking a renewed passion for the Lord.

In all our activities, it is our goal to have two verses be the guide for the Refuge we offer:

Then Jesus said,“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!” Psalm 46:1-3 (NLT)

Our primary focus is to be a people of refuge as Jesus offered refuge to those around him. Yet Jesus himself set the best example of what a person who offers refuge is to be all about: Fishing! As we find refuge in Christ, he in turn sends us out to be fishers of men. Casting out nets of love, our very lives being the bait that draws others to Him, we encourage all students to become fishers of men. A refuge cannot be a refuge if we keep it to ourselves – then we’d become a club or a clique. Christ’s love is for all.

Jesus called out to them, “Come, be my disciples, and I will show you how to fish for people!” Matthew 5:19

Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All other commandments and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40

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