Week of Prayer, Thursday, December 8

The Dove Family Story

Sharing the gospel isn’t a one-time deal for IMB church planters Zack and Jennifer Dove. It’s an everyday part of their lives as they deepen relationships and bridge conversations toward gospel truths in Sandefjord, Norway.

“Zack will say often…We don’t need to let cultural norms be the filter,” Jennifer explains. “We need to let the gospel be the filter and so just share a little bit and see where it lands and plant that seed.”

Only 2 percent of Norwegians regularly attend services—one of the lowest attendance figures in Europe.

Though Norway has been a Christian nation for a thousand years, in recent decades spiritual life has withered and church buildings often stand empty. Only 2 percent of Norwegians regularly attend services—one of the lowest attendance figures in Europe. The Doves encourage existing believers and share with others who live without hope. Southern Baptists can join their work through prayer.

“Just knowing that people are praying is such an awesome thing, and then just knowing that people are giving to the Lottie Moon [Christmas Offering®], that’s such an encouragement.”

1. PRAY for the new church plant in Sandefjord, as believers there reach out to the community and draw seekers into something fresh.
2. PRAY for the house church in nearby Tønsberg as believers there boldly share their faith and for a multiplying movement to take hold.
3. PRAY for an awakening and revival among existing believers: that they would see fruit through sharing their faith and seeing people follow Jesus.