Story & Staff
The Iglesia Protestante de Salou was founded in 1969 by pastor and leader D. Mario Figueras, who named the church "Bethany" in memory of the town where Jesus frequently rested. Everything started with families getting together throughout the years in different houses and churches. Thirty years on and on the 27 October 1996 they opened the church facilities where the church continues to meet.
Around 200 people belong to the church. The church motto "a church for everyone" shows the inclusive nature and ethos the congregation lives to. They have many years of experience of hosting Exodus teams. They also act as a base of operations for different exodus teams that serve in the surrounding areas throughout the summer. There are former Exodus staff members, interns and youth volunteers that serve all year in the Salou Church.
The current Pastor of the church, Josue Garcia, studied at Belfast Bible College and served as the Family & Youth Pastor of Finaghy Baptist Church. Josue and Vanessa, and their children Josue and Alba, continue to have strong connections with Northern Ireland.
Our hosts, David and Samantha Gilkinson, are from Northern Ireland! They have served in Salou with their children, Maria, Luca and Ezra, since 2018, with David acting as Associate Pastor of the Salou Chuch. David worked for Exodus in several different roles, but finished his time developing Exodus' work in Europe. They have been integral in building new connections for Exodus teams to Spain.
The Project
David described the English Bible School as "one of the best evangelism opportunities during the year" and says that hosting the team is "always a highlight for our young people".
During your visit, your team will serve the vision of the Church through:
- A Bible Club for Children (2-3 hours per day)
- Involvement in a Church Service
- A Youth Programme
- Evangelism
- Building relationship with local Church Members
Location
The Iglesia Protestante de Salou is situated on the Calle Pere Gales 1, 43840 Salou, Spain.
It is known for being a tourist spot and reaches people of all nationalities.
Day Planner
Day 1
Board your bus and travel to Dublin Airport before your flight to Barcelona. Travel by car or minibus (90 mins) to Salou for your launch.
Day 2-3
Throw yourself into an action packed Launch programme with other Exodus teams. Finish the launch and travel to your placement.
Day 4-10
Stay with your host (details below) and serve the Spanish people! You'll enjoy great hospitality and get stuck into serving others through community outreach projects, children's work and plaza ministry each evening. During your stay you'll also have the chance to take part in a Spanish Church service.
Day 11
Say goodbye and travel home.
*This day planner is a guide and subject to small changes.