The Republic of Ireland presents a unique challenge for gospel ministry. Unlike many European nations, it never experienced the Protestant Reformation, leaving a complex religious heritage that is culturally Catholic but increasingly secular. With less than 1% of the population evangelical, it is shockingly the least-reached English-speaking country globally. This reality starkly contrasts Northern Ireland, which maintains one of the highest per-capita evangelical populations in the world.

Irish culture's friendly, welcoming nature can often disguise the deep spiritual emptiness that exists. Behind the warm smiles and legendary hospitality lies a society that is rapidly secularising while maintaining cultural Catholic traditions that are increasingly devoid of genuine faith and gospel understanding. This unique combination makes ministry both challenging and crucial.

In response to this reality, EdenGate and its charity, Patrons International, was established 11 years ago with a vision for using business to raise awareness of and facilitate church planting across Ireland, the UK, and Europe. The organisation uniquely combines business and mission through travel and tourism, strategically supporting gospel ministry across Europe. They work collaboratively with denominational and gospel leaders at national levels, creating sustainable models for ministry support.

Jeremy and Christa Kastle have been accepted to serve with Eden Gate and Patrons International and are now preparing to transition to Ireland. They will bring their unique gifts to this ministry, with Jeremy contributing his technical expertise and Christa utilising her photography and creative abilities. Their future ministry will encompass the following:

- Church revitalisation and replanting initiatives

- Supporting EdenGate's pastoral care of pastors

- Contributing to EdenGate's broader mission of facilitating church planting through business as mission 

EdenGate’s work is part of a larger ecosystem of businesses and ministries supporting gospel work, primarily in Ireland but across Europe and the Middle East. The Kastles will play a strategic role in strengthening these efforts through their skills and dedication to the mission.

We invite you to join in this crucial ministry in several ways:

- **Prayer Partnership**: Become a regular prayer partner as the Kastles prepare to serve in this spiritually needy nation

- **Financial Support**: Consider supporting their work through regular or one-time gifts as they raise support for their transition to Ireland

- **Visit and Experience**: Let Eden Gate's business as mission team arrange a visit for you, your family, or your church group to experience firsthand the spiritual need and ministry opportunities in Ireland and Europe. They can create customised itineraries that combine experiencing the beauty of these nations while learning about their gospel needs and ongoing ministry work

- **Business as Mission**: Learn more about how your skills or business experience could support gospel work in Ireland and across Europe. EdenGate aims to expand its business-as-mission team and is actively looking for others to join it, specifically those with marketing and social media skills. Would you consider joining the team in Ireland or sharing this opportunity with others? 

Would you prayerfully consider partnering with the Kastles as they prepare to bring the hope of the gospel to Ireland? Whether through prayer, financial support, or experiencing the work firsthand through an Eden Gate-arranged visit, your partnership could impact this spiritually hungry nation. Contact us to learn more about how you can be involved in this strategic ministry.