An honest look at ministry, culture, and calling after 8 years on the ground…
Hello, future missionary!
After eight years of serving Jesus in France, I want to share what this journey has really been like—beyond the postcards and pastries. This beautiful, complex country has challenged, refined, and drawn me closer to Christ in ways I never could’ve predicted.
If you're an American preparing to bring the Gospel here, I’d love to walk with you through the unexpected lessons, the daily realities, and the quiet miracles I’ve witnessed along the way. It’s not always easy—but it’s always worth it.
France: Beauty, Complexity, and the Gospel
France is breathtaking. From lavender fields to ancient churches to the scent of fresh baguettes on every corner, it can feel like a dream. But the real beauty of France lies in its people—thoughtful, independent, and spiritually curious.
The French have a long tradition of separating religion from public life. The 1905 law establishing secularism (laïcité) makes it clear that faith belongs in the private sphere. This means that evangelism here is less about street preaching and more about long, honest conversations—often over coffee, a walk, or a shared meal.
At first glance, it may seem like people don’t want to talk about faith—but many do. They just want to know you’re real. Authenticity matters. Relationship matters. And when trust is built, hearts often open.
What to Expect as an American Missionary
1. Culture Shock Is Real—But So Is God’s Grace
Coming from an American context of friendliness and openness, France’s social dynamics can feel like a cold front. Don’t take it personally. Relationships here are deep but slow-growing. Don’t rush the process. Instead, press into prayer, dig into language learning, and show up faithfully in community spaces like local classes, cafés, or even neighborhood markets.
Jesus will meet you in the discomfort and teach you to see people through His eyes.
2. Bureaucracy Will Test Your Patience
France is famous for its paperwork. Everything—from renting an apartment to registering for healthcare—requires detailed documentation, multiple appointments, and patience.
There were seasons when I felt more like an administrator than a missionary! But over time, I learned to laugh, prepare ahead, and lean on others who had walked the path before me. Jesus walks with you through every form and frustrating rendez-vous.
3. The Church Is Small, But Powerful
Only about 1% of France’s population is evangelical Christian. Churches here are often small and tight-knit, with believers from many cultural backgrounds. Our local Boulanger said, in regards to the number of denominations in America who refuse to work together, “Division in the church is a luxury we cannot afford in France. There are too few of us to divide.” Be expected to be stretched in ministry. You might wear multiple hats—leading worship, running a children’s class, organizing a food pantry—but the richness of community is unlike anything I experienced back home.
The lack of numbers isn’t discouraging; it’s humbling. Jesus is present in these small gatherings, and His Spirit is moving.
4. A New Rhythm of Life
Life in France is slower-paced and more deliberate. People linger at the table. Sunday is truly a day of rest. And silence is not awkward—it’s normal.
Public transportation is reliable, housing is modest, and your weekly routine may look very different than it did in the U.S. But over time, I discovered that this rhythm allowed me to live more intentionally—and gave me more space to notice God’s presence in the everyday.
What I’ve Learned from Jesus Here
Listening is Love in Action
At first, I was eager to tell people about Jesus. But I quickly learned that listening often speaks louder. The French value dialogue, not monologue. Listening well communicates respect, care, and dignity. I’ve seen hearts soften not through debates, but through simply being present and curious.
Humility Builds Trust
French communication is more nuanced than in America. I once offended a person without realizing it—just by being too direct. Over time, I’ve learned to pause, rephrase, and ask questions rather than assume. Jesus models gentleness, and learning a new culture requires humility. Mistakes are part of it—grace covers you.
Community Is Essential
Missionary life can be lonely. Being away from home, language challenges, and cultural fatigue all take a toll. My lifeline has been a community of fellow missionaries and local believers. Weekly check in meetings, prayers, meals shared in small apartments, and spontaneous encouragement from teammates have kept me going.
Jesus Works in the Slow and Silent
This isn’t a place of quick conversions or flashy ministry wins. But in the quiet, Jesus moves. I’ve seen Him work through years of prayer, tiny steps of faith, and open-hearted conversations. Celebrate every moment of progress. Seeds planted in love never go unnoticed by God.
What I Wish I’d Known
French Fluency Is Vital: Language shapes connection. Begin learning French now. Gospel conversations deepen when you can truly speak someone’s heart language.
Reverse Culture Shock Is Real: Visiting the U.S. after months in France can feel like culture whiplash. Pray through it. Jesus bridges both worlds.
Rest Is Sacred: You can’t minister from exhaustion. Make time for worship, creativity, and rest. Your soul needs it.
France Is Diverse: Each region has its own culture, history, and needs. Learn your local context and adapt accordingly.
Your American Strengths Matter: The French admire initiative, optimism, and hospitality—use these gifts for Gospel connection, not cultural imposition.
What the French Appreciate About You
Hopeful Enthusiasm: Your can-do attitude brings a spark in a culture that sometimes leans toward intellectual caution or skepticism.
Creating Welcoming Spaces: From potlucks to game nights, Americans have a knack for community. Use that gift—it’s a beautiful expression of Christ’s welcome.
Jesus, Always at the Center
France has changed me—but more than that, Jesus has changed me through France.
Every frustration, every small victory, every conversation where I felt unsure but showed up anyway—it’s all part of the calling. And He is always with you.
If He’s calling you here, come with a teachable heart, a strong prayer life, and a deep love for people. Don’t come to save; come to serve. And watch what Jesus does.
He’s already working. You’re just joining in.