Martha came to Marseilles, France, from Egypt several years ago, searching for a better life. With very little, she, her husband and three children had to adjust to a new culture and new language.

Though life has been difficult, Martha has found friends and opportunities to serve through the ministry of CBF field personnel David and Julie Brown. Martha is just one of the thousands of immigrants who are building a new home in this Marseilles, a city rich in history.

The Browns have ministered among immigrants since 2002. In 2010, they moved to Marseilles, located on the Southern coast of France. Many immigrants travel to Europe with the hope finding a job and earning money to support their families back home. Many struggle with basic needs, leaving them among Europe’s most neglected and vulnerable populations. 

“Being a port city, Marseille has always been a city of migrants. This is especially true today,” Brown said. “Over a third of the inhabitants are immigrants, and if you count second and third generations, over half are. You will find immigrants from all over the world but the majority are from North Africa.” 

The Browns are members of and work with a local French-speaking church, partner with the Union of Evangelical Reformed Churches and work with Mosaic, the union of immigrant congregations. They also minister to Muslim immigrants through an association, Marhaban, which means “welcome” in Arabic. Ministry includes a coffeehouse, music, language classes, arts and crafts classes, concerts and youth activities.

 SERVE in France:

Check out these specific opportunities or to learn more, contact Chris Boltin at engage@thefellowship.info.

 Bible study
Ministers or lay leaders needed to lead Bible studies for women, Vacation Bible School and other teaching sessions.
When: Various dates     Length: One week

Music Ministry
Music groups are needed to perform at local immigrant and French churches. When: Various dates     Length: One week  

Art & Crafts Ministry
Individuals or teams with skills and experience in the arts are needed to lead art activities with local women’s group.  When: Various dates     Length: A few days or a week 

Construction
Individuals and teams are needed to help with repair and renovation projects for immigrant churches.  When: Various dates     Length: One week