Focus Area: NICE

They say "Nice is nice," and others call it "Nice La Belle." We have to agree. It's the hub of the entire French Riviera with an international airport and international residents. With a population of around 950,000 Nice is the 5th largest city in France. While the population continues to grow the Christian influence in Nice has diminished over the last several generations. Once a cornerstone of French culture and identity, Christianity's wane is prompting reflections on the role of religion in modern French society.

The City

Throughout its long history, the town of Nice has changed hands quite frequently. It was not until 1880 that Nice was finally claimed by France and became a part of the country. Located on the Mediterranean it has an undeniable beauty with a thriving community teeming with people of all ages and backgrounds.

Nice is made up of 9 primary neighborhoods ranging from Old Town with structures and history dating back to the 13th century to areas like Le Carré d'Or that feature modern influences and conveniences. While each neighborhood has unique characteristics each are distinctly French in their own way.

Diversity is a notable aspect of Nice's population. The city's history as a Mediterranean trading hub has contributed to its multicultural atmosphere. The population includes a mix of French nationals, as well as a significant international community, drawn to the city's cosmopolitan lifestyle and pleasant climate.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Nice from Wikipedia.

The Need

France, a nation with a storied history deeply intertwined with Christianity, is witnessing a transformation that echoes broader global trends. The decline of Christianity in France is a multifaceted phenomenon that reflects changing societal norms, generational shifts, and evolving worldviews.

Christianity has played a pivotal role in shaping France's history, culture, and architecture for centuries. From grand cathedrals like Notre-Dame to the annual celebrations of Easter and Christmas, the presence of Christianity was once deeply embedded in the French way of life. However, the rise of secularism, a core principle of the French Republic, has led to an environment where religion is kept separate from public institutions and policies. This emphasis on secularism, coupled with a growing preference for personal autonomy, has contributed to the erosion of Christianity's influence.

France's growing multicultural population, highlighted in Nice, has led to an increase in the presence of Islam, Buddhism, and other religions. This diversity is contributing to a broader reconfiguration of religious landscapes across the country.

With only 8 protestant churches to serve the almost 1 million residents of Nice there is a great need to partner with these existing churches to start new works. These new works would provide the opportunity for people to re-establish a relationship with God through Christ and become disciples who have a passion to disciple others in the ways of Jesus.