Apex Lisbon

There is a sense that God is doing something new in Lisbon. If you look past religious heritage, the beautiful beaches, the outdoor cafés, and friendly Portuguese people, you will see a people searching for meaning and hope. Partner with our team as we come alongside local churches to minister to youth and young people who are increasingly seeking God in this traditionally Catholic country.

Lisbon is a multicultural city with 3 million people, including people groups from several of Portugal’s former colonies: Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau and more.

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is known for its moderate and warm climate, beautiful beaches, outdoor and friendly people. Portuguese people are open to foreigners and often eager to practice their English. Around 80% of the city identifies as Catholic, due to the rich Catholic heritage of the country. While many Portuguese have some level of respect or favorable view of faith and religion, it is often considered a private matter.

But in the last few years, there is a sense that God is working in Lisbon and Portugal in a new way. People are showing signs of being open to talk about faith, they are curious about what the Bible has to say, and they are realizing that the 'secular story' does not answer life’s deepest questions and needs.

We are looking forward to hosting you to not only get to know this beautiful culture and amazing people, but to give you an opportunity to develop your heart for God's work in Portugal, and his heart for all people.

Meet our missionaries

Our team's vision is to come alongside the local church and partner with them in outreach and evangelism, encouraging and strengthening them as we do ministry together. The Lisbon City Team is currently composed of three families. We partner with several churches and church plants in the Lisbon area, mainly focusing on work with children, youth, and young adults. Our team also partners with a missionary school in Lisbon and a Bible seminary in teaching and training future leaders.

How you’ll serve

• Your time with us will include language and culture learning during the three weeks. You will learn about the Catholic heritage of this country, but also the new ways that God is making himself known.
• Our team partners with a local Portuguese church who has a youth and young adult program. We will also do kids and youth ministry with two church plants in the Lisbon area during the week. Sports (especially football, i.e. soccer), games, crafts and using conversational English to connect with youth will be some of the ways you can immediately begin to serve.
• Our team loves to do prayer walks in the areas we minister, learn from the local believers about the challenges and opportunities, and enjoy food and coffee together.
• Most of all we are looking forward to investing in you and helping you grow closer in your life and walk with Jesus. Portugal and Lisbon is a great place to do that.

Schedule

• May 19-23 – Apex Orientation in Chicago, Illinois
• May 23-24 – Arrive at your site
• June 13-15 – Return home

Housing

Students will likely stay in AirBnB apartments and perhaps with a host family for a short period of time. They will be in the same area where our missionary families work and public transportation is easy to use.

Reach out to start the conversation about applying for 2025!