If you are reading this story without a translator, you may have the skills needed to bring the gospel to the least reached. You can do it from your own home through a computer. And the only skill you need in your toolbox is mastery of the English language and a passion to talk
with people.

Much of the world speaks English, and many non-English speakers want to learn the language. So why not meet that need while bringing the gospel into the conversation?
That’s exactly what’s happening in some security-sensitive countries through English Conversation Clubs. Created to build a bridge into people’s lives, Reach Beyond’s English Conversation Project (ECP) brings together English conversation, relationships and evangelism. Teams of Christian broadcasters and teachers produce scripts, audio programs, videos and conversation-starters covering a multitude of topics. The programs are distributed around the world via radio, websites and social media. Using a limited vocabulary and slow, deliberate, clear speech, the project provides opportunities to those who wish to practice speaking and listening in English, while discussing broader issues about life, both temporal and eternal.

Learners who are anxious to practice English hear about the learner website by word of mouth. They are excited to practice English with native speakers, as well as to develop friendships. Since most other English-practicing lessons require payment, ECP’s free program offers a great alternative.

Complementing the audio and online materials are English Conversation Clubs. Some clubs meet in person, while others “meet” via digital platforms. Club leaders and English learners from around the world join together to practice speaking English by discussing a variety of topics. Local churches often become engaged as well, running the conversation clubs using this platform.

BENEFITS, IMPACT & OUTREACH

Because discussion topics on the ECP learner website are broad, Christian values can be more naturally woven into conversations.

Hearts become open to the gospel. Long-term friendships are established. Over the years, many club members have become believers through the conversations and relationships that have developed. Churches have partnered with ECP Clubs to disciple new believers.

The whole project becomes a win-win for the communities in which they are involved.

At the Millside Centre in Bradford, U.K., some members of the Reach Beyond office are now regularly helping with English-language learning at the Centre. The outreach is serving women from countries like Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Iran and a range of African countries. One team member was able to empathize with the women, having gone through the experience of being a stranger in a new country and having to learn a new language. She knows that the friendships and learning that these classes offer can be life-transforming.

CONNECTIONS & IMPRESSIONS

In the south of Spain earlier this year, the creative minds that write, edit, produce and voice the audio programs and videos for ECP came together with writers of conversation starters and club coordinators. They gathered for the ECP Annual Conference to pray, fellowship, plan and strategize together. Team members met with a club in Spain and found encouragement and a fresh perspective. Fred*, a team member, was encouraged by a woman he met who worked two jobs to provide for her family, yet made it a priority to attend the ECP Club in her area. It became clear to him that so many of those in the program need a place to go and people to listen, help and give them a little hope. Stuart* agreed and said it was “a good reminder of the end goal, not only giving an opportunity for English conversation but also for relationships that direct people to the Savior.”

That evening held highlights for Ian* as well, as he engaged in dialogue with club members and listened to their stories telling why they come to the group. “One lady needed to improve her English as her work team became more and more global, another was a policeman, and some were high-school age. It was so encouraging to see how the club is making a difference.”

PROGRESS & SUCCESS

The ECP program has continued to grow, involving partnerships with churches and individuals throughout the world. Many club members keep in touch regularly and get together for celebrations. Last year was a very encouraging year for Reach Beyond’s English Conversation Project:

• Nearly two million people visited the website last year.
• Two new radio stations started airing ECP audio programs.
• Subscribers to the YouTube channel surpassed 21,000.
• English Conversation Clubs increased from 80 to 133
and are now engaging with English learners in 35 countries.

ECP is a tool that God continues to use to bless individuals and communities. Not only does it bless the learner, but it also blesses the volunteers involved. Whether you use ECP materials to form a club to help English learners in your own community, or you get involved to support the efforts of ECP reaching the least reached, either way it is an opportunity to start a meaningful conversation that could have eternal impact.

*Names changed to protect identities