Christian Leaders Unite at European Congress on Evangelism, Rally Support for Ukraine Amid Global Conflicts

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's European Congress on Evangelism brought together more than 1,000 pastors and ministry leaders from 55 European countries to Berlin from May 27-30, 2025. The gathering marked the most representative assembly of Christian leaders in Europe since the Amsterdam 2000 conference.

During the opening session, when the Ukraine flag was presented as part of a parade of nations, the country was met with a roar of applause, demonstrating the unity of European Christians in support of the war-torn nation.

Franklin Graham Meets with Zelensky

In a surprise announcement during the congress, Franklin Graham revealed he had met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to pray for peace. "Today I had the privilege to meet with President Zelensky and have prayer with him," Graham told the assembled delegates.

The meeting occurred as Zelensky visited Berlin, transforming the German capital into a high-security zone while the congress was taking place nearby.

Ukrainian Revival Amid War

Ukrainian evangelist David Karcha delivered a powerful testimony about spiritual revival occurring despite the ongoing conflict. "In a time of peace, the Gospel is powerful. But in a time of war, it is unstoppable," Karcha told the congress delegates.

Karcha reported extraordinary growth in Ukrainian churches:

• In 2023 alone, Baptist churches witnessed "thousands of people publicly profess their faith through baptism"
• In the last three years, "hundreds of thousands of people have walked through the doors of Ukrainian churches and encountered the love and care of God"
• Many experiencing church "for the first time in their life"

Cross-Border Unity for Peace

The congress brought together leaders from nations with differing geopolitical alignments, including countries supporting Ukraine and those more closely allied with Russia. Graham encouraged the "church of Jesus Christ" in Ukraine, in Russia, and around the world to "stand together in prayer".

Armenian pastor Gor Mekhakyan, who leads a 1,000-member congregation in Moscow, joined in prayers for peace despite increased anxiety as the war has continued. Ukrainian evangelist Adriy Alekseyev said the public recognition from Graham and the meeting with Zelensky "mean a lot to Ukrainians who are weary of war".

Global Call for Renewed Mission

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed formally opened the congress, calling for renewed global evangelism efforts. Ahmed asserted that the "Gospel is more than personal, it reshapes society" and emphasized the need for "a love that honors the dignity of every person".

The Prime Minister highlighted the growth of Christianity in the Global South and called for partnerships rooted in humility and shared global vision.

Theme of Bold Gospel Proclamation

The congress focused on the theme of Romans 1:16 — "being unashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ." Franklin Graham challenged attendees: "Don't be ashamed of the Gospel. Declare it! Proclaim it! Shout it! There is Holy Spirit-filled power when we preach it".

Graham called for "an army of evangelists—unafraid, unashamed, unapologetic, uncompromising—standing on the Word of God".

Humanitarian Response Continues

Franklin Graham's organization, Samaritan's Purse, has provided extensive aid to Ukraine since the war began, including:

• Helping more than 10 million people
• Operating 5 field hospitals and 5 medical clinics
• Supporting nearly 300 hospitals with supplies and training
• Distributing over 120,000 metric tons of food