EUROPE
Europe was not within BMS’ original scope of work.
However, after a constitutional change and a request to take over a mission in France, BMS work began in Morlaix, Brittany in 1843. The work was reduced in the 1860s as increasing numbers of missionaries were sent to Congo.
Between 1863 and 1892 BMS also supported work in Norway. Further south, the first grant to Italy was made in 1870 and soon after the first BMS missionary to the country was appointed.
During the 1880s churches were planted in different cities around the country and these formed the basis of the Baptist denomination in 20th century Italy.
Despite varying levels of involvement in Europe in the early years, work in Italy, France and other countries across the continent continues strong today.