Leaders from across Europe gathered at Pilgrim Hall in the United Kingdom for the 2025 Europe Olivet Leadership Institute (OLI), a focused time of leadership training designed to equip and strengthen future leaders for the mission of the church. Through Bible studies, lectures, and corporate prayer, the program aimed to build leaders grounded in the core truths of the gospel and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Throughout the institute, participants received systematic teaching on foundational doctrines including justification by faith, the Trinity, and the power of salvation through Jesus Christ. Sessions also addressed practical challenges leaders face, such as overcoming spiritual pride, dealing with condemnation, and leading others from a place of grace rather than personal effort.
The institute emphasized that true leadership begins not in human strength but in spiritual humility and dependence on God. "We were not saved to walk alone but as one body of Christ," reflected one participant. "I want to be less and less arrogant, but to reveal God's glory through my life." Others shared how understanding their identity in Christ became the turning point in their leadership development. "I used to struggle with self-condemnation. But now I understand that the identity we receive through justification is what helps us endure and lead."
Many also reflected on the role of suffering and perseverance in shaping leaders who can shepherd others effectively. One trainee shared, "Suffering helps produce perseverance in faith. As leaders, we need to embrace that process, not avoid it."
Lectures on Christian history challenged leaders to learn from past generations of missionaries and preachers, with lessons on the importance of holding firm to Scripture, the value of perseverance in ministry, and the power of personal example in witnessing to others.
Time was also set aside for prayer and personal reflection, with participants testifying to renewed clarity about their calling. "This was not just another event," said one member. "It was a time of being re-equipped to lead others by relying on God's grace, not my own strength."
The institute closed with leaders committing themselves to serve the church faithfully and to guide others into the truth of the gospel. "Jesus' sacrifice is perfect," said one participant. "Now, I want to carry the responsibility of leadership with gratitude, trusting that God will work through me."
The 2025 Europe Olivet Leadership Institute was not simply a place of learning, but a platform to raise the next generation of leaders who will carry the gospel forward with conviction, humility, and love.
