How the local church in France adapts to secularism and a changing society

By Susan Akyeampong | France in

Photo Credit: lecreusois from pixabay

France is a country of contrasts: rich in history, arts, and culture. Yet, as French native Vincent, Head of Communications for SIM France/Belgium, explains, it is also a nation of deep spiritual need. Things are starting to change, though. There is a growing openness to faith and a pressing need for mission work.

With only 1% of the population identifying as evangelical Christian, secularism in France is a central part of public life. The concept of laïcité (secularism) strictly separates religion from public spaces. This creates challenges for sharing the gospel, but it also opens doors for creative and meaningful ways to engage with people. Despite these barriers, organisations like SIM France/Belgium are seeing God at work.

France’s diversity offers both challenges and opportunities for ministry. The country is home to a large Maghreb community, with immigrants , second and third generation migrantsmaking up 8%  of the population. International students and refugees are also an integral part of the fabric. As God’s heart is to see his church made up of people from all cultures, each welcomed and embraced. SIM France/Belgium has two priorities. The first is to mobilise and send mission workers overseas, preparing them to serve in ministries around the world. The second is to place international workers in ministries within France. This is done by partnering with churches or already active in the area, ensuring they support and strengthen existing efforts.

God is doing incredible things through mission workers in France.

In Strasbourg, the Duriga family (SIM USA) serves in a lively, multicultural neighbourhood through a local church. Nate Duriga is dedicated to connecting international Muslim students with Christian students. Together as a family, they organise events where both groups can openly share and discuss their beliefs in a respectful and welcoming environment. Some Muslim students have shared with Nate how much they appreciate being seen and understood in ways that challenge the negative stereotypes often portrayed in the media. It’s a powerful approach to building deep and meaningful relationships.

Another inspiring story comes from Toulouse, where a family of mission workers supported by SIM France/Belgium, in partnership with a local Baptist church, has launched a community project to engage refugees through activities like sports, gardening, and social events. Vincent explains, “It’s all about building relationships. They’re creating spaces where people feel valued and cared for—and through those relationships, we point them to Jesus.” This relational approach is already transforming lives, giving many refugees a sense of belonging and spiritual connection within the community.

However, secularism continues to shape the spiritual landscape in profound ways. “Religion is seen as something private. Wearing a cross or speaking openly about faith is not really allowed  in public spaces like schools and universities, and it still feels taboo.” For many, the material wealth in society fosters a sense of self-sufficiency, leaving little perceived need for God. Vincent also points out the rise of prosperity gospel  teachings, especially among the African diaspora’s churches in big cities, which have muddied the true message of Christianity, spreading the false idea that accepting Jesus will lead to material wealth. This combination of secularism, materialism, and confusion around the gospel contributes to the slow spread of Christianity in the country.

Photo Credit: I.Wierink-van Wetten by Canva Images

This work is not without its difficulties, but perseverance is key. Vincent acknowledges the reality of discouragement but emphasises perseverance: “It takes time, but we’re seeing progress. God is at work in ways we don’t always expect.”

Equipping mission workers is another vital aspect of the ministry. SIM France-Belgium provides orientation modules and training to prepare workers for the complexities of ministry oversees. Vincent shares that part of his role is helping mission workers communicate well. SIM France-Belgium provide orientation modules and training, so they are prepared to engage meaningfully with the communities they serve.

The fruit of this preparation can be seen in inspiring stories of transformation. One example comes from a Canadian family involved in church planting. In 2019, they established a new evangelical community , in partnership with an existing church union, in an area where such churches are rare, bringing Jesus spiritually dry region. These stories highlight the broader mission: to not only share the gospel but to encourage local communities to take ownership of ministry.

This hope is rooted in faithfulness and God’s provision. More than 95% of SIM France-Belgium’s mission worker candidates raise their entire budget to serve, even in tough times. It’s a reminder that God is faithful and that He provides what we need.

This faith is echoed in the way SIM France/Belgium equips and supports its workers. Vincent affirms “We don’t just send people out. We walk alongside them, ensuring they have the care and resources to thrive in their calling.”

Looking ahead, SIM France/Belgium has ambitious goals. They hope to send more French-speaking missionaries to serve in Africa and other French-speaking regions. They also want partner with churches to send workers who can minister effectively in these contexts.

At the same time, the focus on local missions remains strong. Vincent reminds us that “Missions isn’t just overseas.  We need to pray for unity among churches and for more people to respond to the call.”
France may not seem like a traditional mission country but the need is undeniable. In the face of secularism and spiritual apathy, God is building his church, transforming lives, and raising up a new generation of believers. As Vincent puts it: “We’re here to serve, to support, and to be part of what God is doing in France. It’s His mission, and it’s a privilege to play a role in it.”

Prayer
●    Pray for unity among French churches and for courage in boldly sharing the gospel.
●    Lift up the political tensions and challenges between France and West Africa, including the region's political instability, which has made it difficult for SIM France-Belgium to send mission workers.