Congrégation Chrétienne en France

Tucked away on Rue du Maréchal Foch, the Congrégation Chrétienne en France might seem unassuming. But don’t let that fool you. This modest building holds a fascinating story. The Congrégation Chrétienne en France is a Pentecostal church with Brazilian roots. Its story began in 1910 in São Paulo. An Italian immigrant named Luigi Francescon, deeply involved in the burgeoning Pentecostal movement, founded the church. He named it Congregação Cristã no Brasil. Francescon preached across Italian colonies and the church blossomed. By 1950, it had spread throughout Brazil, later reaching the United States, Europe, and beyond. Here in France, the Congrégation Chrétienne en France was established in the 1970s. It found a home among the Portuguese community in the north. Now, it has ten churches across the country. Interestingly, this church, while steeped in Pentecostal tradition, sets itself apart in some fascinating ways. For instance, their pastors, known as “ancient deacons” and “cooperators,” aren’t paid for their services. They are considered lay members, their work sustained by voluntary donations from the congregation. The Congrégation Chrétienne en France offers a unique glimpse into the diversity of faith and practice within the Christian world. It reminds us that even within familiar traditions, there are always new stories to uncover.