Most people are surprised when they find out that Steve and Cindy are church planters in Italy. Its a country that has always been considered a Christian country. But frankly, that is changing.

It's important to understand what the term Christian means. For most it is a term that indicates a religious tradition or a religious association. Biblically, however, the term is used as someone who is a disciple, a follower of Jesus, one who has not only given assent to certain doctrines, but one who has an active and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It was first used in the Book of Acts by outsiders who watched a group of followers of Jesus and saw that they lived like Christ, so they became known as "little Christs".

Statistics show us that of the 58 million people in Italy maybe only 0.10 % would be true, born again followers of Christ, even though 80 % would claim to be Christians. Very few go to church, and even less read the Bible and understand its message. For an Italian go to heaven is a guessing game that depends a lot on what he does in this life in order to be good enough. Not a hopeful or encouraging gospel.

For 26 years Steve and Cindy Thompson have been sharing the message of grace and life with Italians and helping start churches where the Bible is taught and put into practice. They have done this through FM radio, an internet point, teaching English and various other activities that provide the opportunity to build relationships with Italian, and then through those relationships share about a personal and vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ.

Steve and Cindy moved to Venice-Mestre in June 2006 and have been working with IL FARO (the Lighthouse), a small church that is being planted in the center of the city. In summer 2010 they will begin a new project in the nearby city of San Dona'di Piave with the goal to plant a small evangelical church by 2020 and train Italians to lead the church. If you desire to know more about the 20/20 Vision for San Dona', click on the CONTACT page of this website and send a note to Steve and Cindy. They would be glad to give you more information.

Italy needs to hear the true Gospel message. If you would like to make an investment of time, prayer and/or funds to make an eternal difference in the lives of Italians use the CONTACT form to communicate that to Steve and Cindy. They are looking for partners to share in the San Dona' project.