The Paris 2024 Olympic Games captivated the world with stunning performances, emotional moments, and new records. But beyond the arenas and medals, a quieter, deeply spiritual movement unfolded in the heart of the city: believers from many nations came with one purpose—to shine the light of Christ in the midst of the world’s biggest event.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…”
(Matthew 28:19, NIV)
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games captivated the world with stunning performances, emotional moments, and new records. But beyond the arenas and medals, a quieter, deeply spiritual movement unfolded in the heart of the city: believers from many nations came with one purpose—to shine the light of Christ in the midst of the world’s biggest event.
This testimony, shared by the Global Evangelism Movement (GEM), is a powerful example of what intentional, mission-driven travel can accomplish. It reveals how Christians—athletes, artists, pastors, and volunteers—used their journey to Paris as an opportunity to boldly share the Gospel with creativity, love, and unity.
At EXOD Agency, we believe travel can be a field of faith, a space of service, and a divine encounter—both with God and others.
In the heart of the Olympic Village, Christian athletes did not shy away from publicly expressing their faith. Fijians sang hymns of praise, while others from various nations gathered for prayer in communal spaces.
"I give all glory to God for everything I accomplish," said gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone.
“He gave me this gift, He gives me the drive to keep improving. I have a platform,
and I want to use it to glorify Him.”
Such testimonies—on the track, in press conferences, and behind the scenes—show that even among the world’s athletic elite, God was honored, proclaimed, and worshipped.
In downtown Paris, the Agapé Hub gallery remained open throughout the summer despite the heat. It hosted an exhibition titled “Hymnal: Humanity Gathered,” organized by GEM artists from across the globe. Inspired by Scripture and themes of unity, the exhibit offered a moving and contemplative space for visitors.
“People could sense something different in that space," shared Karly Manuel from the GEM team in Greece. "They felt peace as soon as they entered. The Holy Spirit was clearly present.”
Through short films, reimagined parables, faith-inspired canvases, and cross-cultural artistic dialogue, art became a discreet but powerful vessel for sharing the faith—with visitors from every continent impacted in unexpected ways.
This wave of faith wasn’t limited to isolated venues. Led by figures like Tom Hawkins (GEM France) and Paris pastor Matthew Glock, a network called “Ensemble2024” (“Together2024”) was launched to foster unity and synergy among churches and ministries during the Games.
“We estimate that at least 2,500 disciples of Jesus Christ from France and around the world participated in ministry this summer," said Pastor Glock. "Over 50 Parisian churches were involved, and more than 500 events took place during the Olympics.”
From art and music to outreach and community service, each initiative became a platform to proclaim Christ. Over 700,000 translated Gospel materials were distributed, and more than 1,000 believers shared their faith across the Paris region.
“Local authorities were incredibly open," added Tom Hawkins. "Because of that freedom, the
Word of God spread.”
What stood out most wasn’t just the measurable impact—but the spiritual hunger felt on the streets of Paris.
“People are hungry here” Tom shared.
“Some of the nations represented at the Games have no Christian witness at home—here, they encountered it for the first time.”
But this momentum must not end. The “Ensemble2024” network emphasized that this kind of mission should be more than a one-time event.
“Let’s not treat this moment as an end, but as a launchpad. Every event—sporting, cultural, or social—is an opportunity to share Christ’s love.”
This testimony powerfully illustrates how a well-structured Christian journey can become a mission field, a space of worship, or a channel for serving others. At EXOD Agency, we walk alongside pastors, church leaders, and faith-based organizations to help design spiritually rich itineraries that are culturally aware, strategically built, and spiritually impactful.
Whether you’re seeking to integrate French culture with a journey of faith, live out a mission trip in Paris, or plan a spiritual itinerary around a major event—our role is to help you make each journey a living testimony of what God can do, just as He did during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The story shared by GEM shows clearly that when travel is rooted in prayer and love for others, it becomes a powerful tool for spiritual growth—both individually and collectively.
“This is not a conclusion. It’s a beginning.”
What if your next group trip became an unforgettable journey of faith—thoughtfully designed, Spirit-led, and grounded in vision?
Because such events draw thousands of people from all nations, cultures, and beliefs. They create strategic opportunities to share the Gospel naturally through conversations and presence. As seen in Paris 2024, God works when the nations gather.
Absolutely. Paris is rich in Christian history, active churches, and powerful spaces for prayer, cultural encounters, or mission. EXOD Agency supports churches and Christian groups in planning spiritually impactful journeys year-round.
Through strategic planning: choose inspiring venues, include time for prayer and reflection, create space for grace, and connect with local Christian communities. The “Hymnal” art exhibit is a perfect example of how art and the Gospel can come together in mission.
