For years, FEC workers have been reaching out to the Basque people with the love and grace of the Gospel. Recently, their focus has shifted from individual ministers to team coordinators, thanks to the new influx of workers in the region. these workers explain. “In addition to getting these folks settled in, we now have a whole new set of eyes and ears in the field.” Getting settled is more daunting than it sounds and involves learning the unique and intricate Basque language and culture. As each team member forms new relationships, the group is ever mindful of their new vision statement, which is to thrive spiritually as individuals as well as families, thrive relationally as a team and with other people, and work actively to learn Basque language and culture by the end of 2016.
“The toughest part of this statement, and the most essential to team health, is thriving spiritually.” That said, we are also asking for prayers as the team tackles the difficult process of understanding Basque culture, which is much harder to comprehend than the very intricate language. “While Basque people are warm and engaging,” says one worker, “it’s hard to get below that surface level.” That said, understanding the culture remains a vital part of the process if the team is to develop an effective ministry to the Basque people, who remain the least reached people group in Spain.
