The country of Austria is breathtaking, but its stormy past has led to a modern country that does not display an openness to God

Austria is a country famous for its culture, music and arts. It has breathtakingly beautiful scenery with magnificent lakes, large forests, high mountains and a huge diversity of animal life. Austria also has a long and painful history as a country set in the heart of Europe.  

Austria was a turbulent place during the time of the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. It was first Roman Catholic, and then the Reformation won the hearts of approximately 80 percent of the population. But only 30 years later the Counter-Reformation resulted in suppression and persecution of Protestant believers.  

Although there was some little relaxation in the restrictions for the Lutheran church, freedom to proclaim the gospel in public only came in 1860. The drama in the 16th century had a strong impact on society, not only in religious beliefs but also in cultural behavior, values and beliefs. Believing in God or not became a private, hidden aspect of life.  

OM started the first evangelistic summer outreaches in 1961. Since then several thousand young Christians have come to Austria to help spread the good news of Jesus Christ. The OM team in Austria is as passionate today as at the beginning in desiring to be an instrument of hope in the hearts of communities, to see lives changed and society positively influenced. We do this through mobilizing and supporting the Austrian church to become part of God`s mission around the world, starting in Austria. We partner with the Austrian churches in new church planting initiatives, projects and related ministries. We also help the needy in this country – Austrians, immigrants and refugees – to find hope and a better future. We show love to Muslims by building bridges between them and the Christian majority and we impact society through professional initiatives in music and arts.