Canary Islands
(Autonomous Community of Spain)
Current Churches & Ministries
With two missionaries now on the field, we are excited about the prospect of seeing hearts reached in this newly opened field. However, this field has unique challenges as well as opportunities. A number of churches and ministries exist on the two main islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, of which only a couple are small independent Baptist works. Virtually no Gospel witness exists on the five smaller islands. While the continent of Spain is seen as a “graveyard” for missionaries, these small Islands of Spain are seen as being “over evangelized”. Many missionaries have come, but most have not stayed. As one aged Canario believer said, “Many came, but where are they today? Few stayed, and slowly they continue to leave. More and more Canarios are weary of Catholicism but sadly many are now disillusioned with evangelicals, they are becoming atheists. The remaining churches of various denominations are substituting the Bible and the old hymns for social programs and worldly music.” The Canary Islands need missionaries with a long-term vision and a life-long commitment.
Learn more about the BIMI Missionaries in the Canary Islands.
Terry Sharp
Unreached areas/peoples
The Canary Islands are located on the same latitude as Orlando, Florida, just 100 miles off the coast of Morocco, Africa. They are Spanish and Catholic through conquest, but culturally the Canarios strive to continue to preserve their unique heritage and identity. Each island has retained its own unique cultural peculiarities, but the spiritual need remains the same. There are many churches... but where is the Light?
Special projects/opportunities
Due to Catholic tradition, previous efforts mentioned, and the current cults and trends; many Canarios see missionary work as a “cultural invasion”... another threat to their cultural “identity”. Overcoming this mindset is the key to gaining a listening ear and obtaining victory in the spiritual battle. Hearts are tender and hurting...but well-guarded. A servant prepared for a marathon of gentle tilling, careful planting, and tender watering with patience and a consistent testimony will, in time, reap many harvest opportunities in this field.