Help build the Somali church

The underground Somali Church is growing

Context
An underground church in Europe? Yes, it truly exists. Somalia ranks number two on the global list of countries with the most severe persecution of Christians. Openly practicing Christianity in Somalia is virtually impossible. Both family members and tribal communities reject anyone who chooses to follow Jesus Christ. Despite these circumstances, the underground church among Somalis is growing. Across the diaspora in Europe, efforts are underway to strengthen the network of Somali Christians—both in several European countries and in Somalia itself.

The Book of Acts in real time…
A church among Somalis—until recently, such a concept was almost unimaginable. The number of believers was extremely small and remained so for many years. However, we are now witnessing a change.

“As we spoke about the development of this fragile and hidden community, I suddenly realized how extraordinary this moment was. We were witnessing the birth of a young Christian church among a people group that had been completely unreached until now. It felt as though we were watching a chapter from the Book of Acts unfold in real time. What an indescribable encouragement!”— Pastor

Challenges
It is truly remarkable to see individuals from a Muslim background come to know Jesus. Each testimony is unique and deeply moving. God is at work—He reveals Himself, and people are being brought from darkness into the Light. However, the journey for new believers is far from easy. They face many significant challenges:

• Family members and friends often reject them when they discover their Christian faith.
• Even within their own household, faith often remains a hidden matter.
• As a result, living out a Christian lifestyle (which is entirely new to them) is extremely difficult.
• Somali Christians face pressure within their own communities, making it hard to trust others.
• Daily life concerns often remain heavy burdens.

Building strong communities—a new spiritual family—is essential. Solid discipleship training is important as well to help believers understand what it means to follow Christ.

Mission
Gave foundation, a Dutch Christian organization helping refugees, has long supported this work from the Netherlands. In 2024, a daughter organization—Diaspora Ministries—was established to focus specifically on ministry in Europe. Their vision is: we long for all Somali people to know Christ and to find their home in God.

In a world where Somali Christians often live in silence and isolation, we dream of a vibrant community of faith, hope, and love—visible and deeply connected. We believe every person is called to come home to God, regardless of their background or origin. That’s why we are fully committed to a movement of Somali believers who grow in Christ, flourish in their faith, and invite others to do the same.
Diaspora Ministries aims to contribute to a strong, visible Somali church in the diaspora—rooted in God’s Word and led by the Holy Spirit. We pursue this mission by:

• Reaching and strengthening Somali individuals through the Word of God.
• Connecting and equipping Somali believers within the body of Christ.
• Encouraging and supporting Somali Christians to share their faith with their own people.

Activities
Due to the sensitive nature of this work, including the safety of our workers, the people we serve, and our organizational integrity, we are limited in what we can share online. Nonetheless, we would like to show you a few examples to offer a glimpse of our activities.

The ‘underground’ Somali Church
In various locations across Europe, Somali Christians gather in small, often vulnerable faith communities. Diaspora Ministries supports this underground church through pastoral care, practical assistance, and facilitating fellowship. Due to the geographic spread, regular meetings are challenging—but all the more valuable when they do take place.

“I am so grateful for these gatherings. I learn new things here and meet my brothers and sisters. This is my church. At home, I believe alone—these meetings are vital for me.”

Youth Ministry Across Europe
Together with various networks across Europe, we are witnessing a growing movement of young Somalis who become Christians. To support their spiritual growth, we organize three gatherings each year for youth and young adults. In these events we teach the youngsters about following Jesus and offer a safe space for mutual encouragement. Being a second-generation Somali Christian in Europe—especially within tight-knit Somali communities—is not easy.

“When I’m at the youth retreat, I feel relaxed. I can be myself and share my story. Everything is in Somali—reading, storytelling, singing—and that touches me deeply.”— Young participant

European Conference
Each year, Somali Christians from across Europe gather for a conference. Diaspora Ministries helps organize this impactful event, which welcomes around 100 participants. The conference offers vital spiritual support, especially for those living in isolation—spiritually or socially. Community, biblical teaching, and fellowship are central. Special programs are also offered for children and youth.

Funding and Impact
Through this project, you are contributing to the global Somali church. Gave foundation continues to support Diaspora Ministries financially during its early years. In cooperation with Gave foundation, MissionInvest aims to contribute €50,000 towards the ministry among Somali people. This funding will enable Diaspora Ministries to expand this important Kingdom work. Allocation of funds in 2025:

• Underground Church in Europe: €15,000
• Networking & European Conferences: €20,000
• Global Somali Projects: €15,000

Why get involved?
God is working powerfully within the Islamic world. We can witness, but also be part of this movement by supporting this project financially. Through the work of Gave foundation and Diaspora Ministries, you can become part of this remarkable mission to the glory of Gods Kingdom.