“Now instead of selling purses, people’s lives are being sold out for Jesus!” These words capture the essence of the Chinese Revival Church. It is located in Budapest Hungary. This church has a unique origin story. It started unexpectedly.
The Greater Grace Church in Budapest is nearby. The Chinese community approached its leadership. They asked them to start a church. About half the students at Greater Grace International School are Chinese. The school and church are known in the Chinese community.
In 2011 a Chinese believer contacted the school. They needed teaching. They wanted the same teaching the students received. First, a Bible College class was offered. It was for Chinese believers at the main church. Greater Grace pastors were also invited. They visited and preached at existing Chinese churches. Soon, a Greater Grace Bible study began.
The Chinese believers learned the grace message. They were not satisfied with their previous teachings. They wanted more. During a European Convention, Pastor Schaller met with Chinese attendees. One woman requested a Greater Grace Chinese church in Budapest. By November 2012, the church was running.
The Bible study met in a wholesale purse shop. This became the church’s first home. In March 2013, it moved next door. The church now occupies the shop.
There are approximately 30 adults in the congregation. Most have grown children. There are a few families with younger children. Currently, there is no youth program.
The Chinese Revival Church has a special connection. It connects with another Chinese Greater Grace church. Pastor Satellite leads it. He is a disciple of Pastor Jeff and Nancy Phelps. He has been with the ministry for about 25 years.
Pastor Satellite attended a European Convention. He was honored by Pastor Schaller. He was also loved by the Body. He taught Bible class at GGIS. He met with Chinese high school students. He shared the Gospel. Several students were born again.
In 2013, Pastor Satellite brought 25 church members to Eurocon. This equaled the number of Greater Grace Chinese Church of Budapest members. They bonded. They housed each other. They shared meals.
The GGCC members visit other shops in the Chinese district. They engage in informal outreach. Pastor Graham observed the area. “It’s like another world there.” “You walk around the shops and feel like you’re in China.”
Pastor Graham visited Pastor Satellite’s church in November 2013. He spoke to about 140 believers. They had an unbelievable time. He hopes to return.
The worship service is in Chinese. Preaching is in English. It is translated into Chinese. Communication can be challenging. The love of God surpasses language. It is communicated in other ways.
Chinese church members love fellowshipping. Before Sunday evening services, they share food. Everyone is welcome to join them for dinner. After the service, they fellowship. Pastor Graham noted that everyone stays.
During the 2014 Eurocon, Pastor Schaller visited. He preached from 1 Thessalonians 5:11-20. He tailored his message. He used tofu instead of sand for a house’s foundation. After the service, the Chinese believers took pictures with Pastor Schaller.
Pastor Graham estimates over 20000 Chinese live nearby legally. “So it’s really a great mission field with great potential.” The Greater Grace Church of Budapest has Bible College students. They take classes for credit. Pastor Satellite’s classes are offered by video. Pastor Graham teaches a live class. The Chinese Revival Church continues to grow. It is a testament to faith. It exemplifies community.