Poland
ITMI's Richard and Brooke Nungesser celebrated the 15th anniversary of their move to Poland to teach English this year.
(The same year ITMI celebrated 35 years of keeping you "in touch" with quality national believers who are faithfully doing good work!)
The outreach to the homeless Richard and Brooke founded with a few cups of tea 15 years ago has now grown to include 2 continents, 3 countries, multiple cities in Poland, and a transitional home for men.
It went from Richard sharing hot tea with a few in need, to a movement, sweeping up many and equipping them to love and serve the poor in their midst.
Many of you know this fast-growing movement as Bread of Life.
And it keeps growing! Bread of Life launched a new outreach earlier this year.
How Bread of Life Expanded to a New City in Poland
Gniezno is considered the "birthplace" of Poland's Catholic Church, a group that represents the majority of the country's population. The Gniezno Cathedral is a sight to behold.
The dual spires of the Gniezno Cathedral scrape the blue sky above the heart of the city.
Gniezno Baptist Church was planted by the K5N Baptist Church, pastored by ITMI's Dr. Piotr Zaremba years ago. ITMI helped raise funds to renovate the church's building, which at the time was the only evangelical group in the city.
Bread of Life and Gniezno Baptist Church attempted to open an outreach to the homeless in Gniezno, but local officials disallowed the use of the Bible, and the project was shut down.
But we are excited to share with you that this year, Bread of Life launched the "Day of New Chances" in Gniezno.
Bread of Life offers new life and another chance through the restoration available to us in Jesus.
A "New Chance" for the Homeless in Gniezno
The Day of New Chances happens once a month. Those who choose to attend are provided a bathroom for use, clean clothes, a warm meal and a care package.
But the event offers more than just physical help. It offers community. Its a time spent eating together, and in that simple way, acknowledging in front of one another dependance on something outside self to stay alive.
A guest speaker shares with those at the Day of New Chances in Gniezno.
And, of course God's Word is central. Everyone there reflects together on how to be new and better people through God's saving work and Word. Guest speakers offer encouragement.
At a meeting earlier this year, there were 36 people. One of them ended up becoming a resident at Bread of Life's New Life Center outside Gniezno.
Gniezno Baptist Church is where men from the New Life Center attend church. This small but vibrant church is practiced at accepting people at all points in their restoration journey, and are ready to welcome anyone who needs a new chance!
About the Author
Summer Kelley is a writer and follower of Jesus living in Phoenix, Arizona with her husband and three kids. She’s had the honor and privilege of telling ITMI’s stories since 2006. Summer loves reading, the outdoors and Coca-Cola Classic.