Reviving the Remnants: How a Swedish church reawakening Is Reimagining Its Culture to Faith
By Warren Bird
Another adaptation is the Alpha Course—a program designed to introduce the basics of the Christian faith through a series of interactive sessions. The course has been particularly effective in reaching both secular Swedes and immigrants, including those from Muslim backgrounds.
According to Piensoho, the success of the Alpha Course lies in its interactive and friendly environment, which allows participants to explore faith at their own pace without feeling pressured. This approach resonates with people who may be curious about Christianity, but are hesitant to commit to a traditional church setting.
Another innovation that has helped the church’s outreach is expanding to new locations—currently there are four. “Pastor Niklas has embraced the strategy of church reproduction through multiple services and locations. Once resisted as American innovations that wouldn’t work in Europe, these practices are becoming an integral part of growing churches across Sweden,” observes Jim Tomberlin, director of MultiSite Solutions, who consulted with the pastor about becoming multisite.
The Gospel’s Enduring Relevance
What Philadelphia Church shows is that the gospel is still relevant, powerful and transformative, even in a post-Christian world, especially as it is demonstrated. The key is to meet people where they are, show them genuine love and communicate the timeless message of Christ in a way that speaks to their hearts.
FILADELFIAKYRKAN (PHILADELPHIA CHURCH)
Stockholm, Sweden
Senior Pastors: Niklas Piensoho
Website: FiladelfiaKyrkan.se
Founded: 1910
Denomination: Swedish Pentecostal
Attendance: 1,000
