The Baptist Family in Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East
The European Baptist Federation is comprised of approximately 800,000 members in 59 member bodies in 52 countries, stretching from Portugal to the far reaches of Russia. Included in this family are Baptists in Euroasiatic countries and the Middle East. EBF leaders work continuously to help strengthen the relationships in these countries where, as of now, no formal union exists.
The European Baptist Federation is one of the six regions of the Baptist World Alliance.
EBF creates an environment for collaboration and development of the mission of God
We do this on the basis of our Christian witness and distinctive convictions. We encourage and inspire each other in faith and fellowship and shared responsibility, and inspire to seek in all our endeavours to fulfil the will of Jesus Christ.
The EBF was founded in 1949 to unite European Baptists as Europe emerged from the devastation of World War II. During the Cold War, the EBF maintained contact with believers behind the Iron Curtain who suffered for their faith. Many Baptist churches still face difficulties resulting from poverty, war, or continuing threats to their religious freedom.
The EBF family is diverse in culture, language and tradition but remains united in Baptist identity, evangelistic zeal, and a concern for human rights and religious freedom. We share a commitment to play a full part with other Christians in creating societies in Europe and the Middle East, which reflect the values of the Kingdom of God.
Shared Statement of Baptist Identity
At its Council, in September 2006 the EBF adopted the Message of the 2005 Baptist World Alliance Congress as a Statement of Baptist Identity which can helpfully summarise the core beliefs and values which are common among European and Middle Eastern Baptists. Each member Union has its own Doctrinal Basis or Declaration of Principle and these can be obtained by contacting the particular Union.
