Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, home to 3 million people and a favorite vacation spot for Europeans due to its coastline and sunny, temperate weather. Though Lisbon has long been a multi-cultural melting pot, the increase of its expatriate population has increased dramatically over the last decade. For Ukrainian or Middle Eastern refugees fleeing war, or for American or Western Europeans seeking a cheaper place to live, there is a growing need in Lisbon for gospel-driven, Christ-centered churches.
MTW’s Lisbon team is planting vibrant, evangelical, and Reformed churches in the Lisbon area primarily focused upon this growing international community, while faithfully welcoming Portuguese worshipers, as well. Hospitality ministry, relationship building, book clubs, music leading, youth and children’s ministry, discipleship and evangelism are the ministry focus points, all with the intention of gathering those whom God’s Spirit is moving to worship Him as His Church in Lisbon.
Meet the Team


Eric & Naomi Sparks
Eric and Naomi are called to work with Bethany International Church in Lisbon, where Eric will lead music and assist the pastoral staff and Naomi will disciple women and care for missionaries.

John & Ellen Buerger
The Buergers are excited that God has called them to plant a new international church in Lisbon, Portugal.

Meet The Team


Eric & Naomi Sparks
Eric and Naomi are called to work with Bethany International Church in Lisbon, where Eric will lead music and assist the pastoral staff and Naomi will disciple women and care for missionaries.
John & Ellen Buerger
The Buergers are excited that God has called them to plant a new international church in Lisbon, Portugal.
Get Involved

All the Way, the Savior Leads: A Missionary Family’s Journey Through Life’s Questions, Twists, and Turns
From adopting a special needs child in Bulgaria to church planting in Portugal, the Buergers’ many challenges have been met by God's grace.
See More
The Coming Tide of Faith in Europe
Across Europe missionaries are watching the Spirit move with a rapidly accelerating pace as God opens door after door.
See More
Christ Will Build His Church
Europe is the new “dark continent.” Churches are being turned into bars and museums. But does that mean the European Church is without hope?
See MorePray for John and Ellen Buerger, missionaries serving in Portugal, and their children, as they face the ups and downs of missionary life. Pray also for the ministry in Lisbon.
Related StoryGive thanks to God for a movement of the Spirit spreading across Europe opening doors that have been long-shut.
Related StoryPray for the declining Church in Europe. Many see Europe as post-Christian and without hope. But we know that Christ will build His church.
Related Story
All the Way, the Savior Leads: A Missionary Family’s Journey Through Life’s Questions, Twists, and Turns
From adopting a special needs child in Bulgaria to church planting in Portugal, the Buergers’ many challenges have been met by God's grace.
SEE MORE
The Coming Tide of Faith in Europe
Across Europe missionaries are watching the Spirit move with a rapidly accelerating pace as God opens door after door.
SEE MORE
Christ Will Build His Church
Europe is the new “dark continent.” Churches are being turned into bars and museums. But does that mean the European Church is without hope?
SEE MOREPray for John and Ellen Buerger, missionaries serving in Portugal, and their children, as they face the ups and downs of missionary life. Pray also for the ministry in Lisbon.
RELATED STORY