50 Years Teen Challenge Sweden

Earlier this month, we (Jan and Marja) visited Teen Challenge in Sweden.

The weekend of October 9–11 marked 50 years of Teen Challenge work. We were invited to attend and also to speak on specific topics during those three days.

In 1976, the organization began its outreach to those struggling with addiction—operating under the name Kristen Utmaning—through street ministry, evangelistic campaigns, gatherings, and the distribution of David Wilkerson’s book The Cross and the Switchblade.

People came to faith, and a Bible school was later established. Although there has never been a residential center (where individuals typically follow a year-long program following detox), they have managed to reach many people with the Gospel through street outreach and coffeehouse-style ministry.

This remains the case today. Director Christian Alderblad and his team, operating out of Englahaket in Örebro—a second-hand shop and coffeehouse modeled after our own "Twinkeltje" concept—are active in several major Swedish cities where social problems continue to mount.

There are now plans to open a rehabilitation center in northern Sweden, which is very exciting. This initiative requires prayer, funding, and workers.

Saturday was a celebratory day; many visitors attended who knew the work of Teen Challenge from the past—some of whom remain involved to this day.

The event featured speeches, shared testimonies, and worship, with plenty of time set aside for meaningful conversation among those present.

It was encouraging for us to see various generations come together—people in their twenties, their seventies, and every age in between—to seek God and pour out their hearts for their cities, villages, and their nation.

Jesus was, is, and will always be the answer for a world in need. Addiction, crime, loneliness, abuse, and violence—these issues exist in both wealthy and impoverished nations alike.

The work of Teen Challenge is just as vital in Sweden as it is in Moldova. That is precisely why we, as Traveling Light, are grateful to be able to support various programs and projects across Europe through both financial contributions and personal visits.

This allows us to stay connected, remain engaged, and be a blessing to others.

Of course, this is only possible thanks to the donations we receive for these projects and countries, as well as the proceeds from Twinkeltje, De Schor, E-bay sales, and other fundraising initiatives.

Donations, large or small, for the projects Traveling Light supports are always welcome. You can send a donation in different ways:

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