Every summer, thousands of young travelers crisscross Europe, hopping from city to city by train and bus. Many stay in hostels—vibrant, social spaces full of energy and adventure. But behind the excitement, there’s often a deeper search happening. Many Gen Z travelers are spiritually hungry, longing for truth, identity and love—without knowing that what they’re really searching for is Jesus!
That’s where Race Across Europe (RAE) comes in.
RAE is a short-term summer outreach led by Operation Mobilization in the UK, designed for young adults (ages 18–25) who love Jesus, love to travel and want to make a difference. Teams of young believers travel across Europe by train, sharing the gospel in hostels, on buses, in cafés and even on train platforms—anywhere people are open to conversation.
Last summer, three teams took off from the UK, each following a different route through southern and central Europe. After visiting 11 countries total and four weeks of travel, ministry and connection, they reunited at OM’s base in Romania for a time of rest, reflection and village outreach before heading home.
RAE participants live out their faith in everyday moments—cooking in hostel kitchens, chatting over coffee or leading Discovery Bible Studies (DBS) with new friends. Whether on a train or in a hostel lounge, they’re building relationships and pointing people to Jesus through love, kindness and bold conversations.
Along the way, teams also serve alongside OM teams and local churches in various countries. From refugee outreach and youth ministry, to street evangelism and ministry to the homeless, participants get hands-on experience in real-world missions. It’s a powerful way to explore God’s call and discover how He might use them both now and in whatever may come next.
Chloe, 18, from the UK, joined RAE before starting college. She felt God nudging her to step out in faith and share the gospel—and RAE gave her the perfect opportunity. Her team traveled through France, Germany, the Czech Republic and Hungary, eventually reaching Romania and returning through Austria, Croatia and Belgium.
“I would 100% recommend this outreach to others,” Chloe says. “It’s such an amazing way to go on an adventure with God, grow in your own faith, push yourself out of your comfort zone and help and love others, like Jesus would. It’s also just so much fun, meeting so many great people from so many different countries and walks of life, exploring some super cool countries together!”
Since returning, Chloe says she’s more confident in sharing her faith and more intentional in her walk with God.
As this summer’s teams prepare to head out, would you pray with us?
Ways to pray—
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