While much of the religious news in the UK and Europe focuses on institutional decline—even as we hear encouraging reports of a “Quiet Revival” across the Western World—another story is unfolding under the radar. A quiet expansion is taking place across the continent. The Anglican Network in Europe (ANiE) has recently passed the milestone of 100 churches, now reaching a total of 116 local congregations.

What began in 2013 as a small movement in England has become a vibrant, recognized GAFCON jurisdiction, proving that Europe remains an urgent mission field. ANiE is fulfilling the call to disciple Europe through the faithful gospel of Jesus Christ.

On June 30, 2017, the ACNA Primate, Archbishop Foley Beach, consecrated Bishop Andy Lines as a missionary bishop on behalf of GAFCON, with many other Anglican Primates and Bishops participating in the consecration.

In less than nine years, the episcopal leadership has expanded from a single pioneer bishop to a team of seven—including diocesan, assistant, and retired bishops. This team provides the leadership “backbone” for a growing, faithful Anglican jurisdiction that shows no signs of slowing down, as new churches are formed, planted, and strengthened each year.

Three Dioceses, One Mission

In 2020, the GAFCON Primates Council voted to establish the Anglican Network in Europe as a “proto-province” (an initial provincial structure) with Bishop Andy Lines serving as the Presiding Bishop. Originally formed by two convocations, we have since grown to comprise three distinct dioceses:

• AMiE (Anglican Mission in England): Starting and strengthening churches in the birthplace of Anglicanism. Led by Bishop Tim Davies. It has 36 Congregations.
• ACE (Anglican Convocation in Europe): Reaching across borders into the heart of the continent, active in nine countries. Led by Bishop Andy Lines. It has 24 Congregations.
• AMC Europe (Anglican Missionary Congregations): The newest addition, joining in 2024 and bringing unique energy to the Network. Led by Bishop Dr. Gideon Ilechukwu. It has 56 Congregations

Though each diocese maintains its unique flavour and values, they are bound by a commitment to the Lord, biblical truth, and the historic faith of orthodox Anglicanism—expressed with a clear passion to embody God’s kingdom in Europe.

The motivation behind this mission is not merely institutional; it is born of a genuine love for Europe. Approximately 90% of the European population does not yet know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

For those of us at ANiE, Europe isn’t just a collection of nations; it is a mission field. By prioritizing church planting, development, and grassroots discipleship, the Network seeks to reintroduce the faithful gospel of Christ to a continent many had written off as “post-Christian.”

As we move beyond the 100-church mark, the message from ANiE is clear: we aren’t just making noise; we are making disciples through faithful churches across Europe.

Bishop Josep Rossello Assistant Bishop, ACE (ANiE)