Belgium

The Église Protestante Unie de Belgique
(The United Protestant Church of Belgium)

The Église Protestante Unie de Belgique is a united Protestant church that brings together Reformed, Lutheran, and Methodist traditions.

It sees this diversity of protestantism to be a strength. It plays an active role in Belgian society, focusing on inclusion, justice, and spiritual growth.

The church supports refugees and migrants through dedicated organisations and promotes interfaith dialogue, especially with the Roman Catholic Church.

Evangelism is central to its mission, with outreach through radio, television, and community programmes.

In Brussels, and with affiliated status with the Église Protestante Unie de Belgique, there is an additional Methodist congregation established by United Methodists from the DR Congo.

History

The Église Protestante Unie de Belgique has deep roots in the Protestant Reformation, which helped shape Belgium’s religious identity despite centuries of resistance.

After Belgium gained independence in 1830, Protestant churches began to grow, supported by communities from Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands. British Methodists also began mission work in Brussels in 1816 and early efforts were modest.

In the 20th century, Protestantism in Belgium evolved into two main streams: one ecumenical and one more independent.

A major step toward unity came in 1969, when the Evangelical Protestant Church of Belgium joined with the Belgian Methodist Conference.

This paved the way for further collaboration with the Reformed Church of Belgium, leading to the formation of The Église Protestante Unie de Belgique in 1979.