Birthplace of Mozart, Strauss, Freud, Hitler..., ruled for centuries by the Habsburg dynasty from before Charles V to soon after empress Sissi... Austria was once a major world power and for the last 60 years a backwater at the heart of Europe! It has three very different parts, the vibrant city of Vienna, the Danube lowlands to the north and west of Vienna and along the Hungarian border and the Alps. Half the population live in Vienna and this fact alone dominates the way people see the city, as something rather different to 'Austria'. It is a melting pot of cultures, with a high percentage of immigrants from all over the world. Industrially developed, Vienna is also a centre of culture, featuring the world famous New Year's concert -repeated 3 times a week for tourists in the summer!- In both summer and winter many holiday makers can also be found in the Alps, where ski resorts abound. Austria is certainly worth a visit!
Spiritually, Austria continues to be a mainly Roman Catholic nation, particularly outside Vienna, where the immigrant mix has brought all sorts to the city. It is also very secular in many respects, like most of Europe.
The affluence of tourists, along with many other visitors, makes Vienna's city centre a key place for OAC style ministry. Since the mid-90s OAC has been holding annual outreaches under the name Reach The City. Originally, the German and British branches of OAC were involved. As a result of the outreaches, we gradually came to know many young Austrians, among whom was Stefan Höfler. At the same time, Martin Podobri, from Linz, was studying at Bible School in Germany and came in touch with Uli Hofius. Martin completed his studies and joined OAC Germany, while Stefan went to the OAC Europe Now Snowball training in Bristol (GB)
In late 2002 the Austrian branch of OAC came to life and was very quickly registered and established, with Martin based in Linz and Stefan in Vienna. After some reorganisation during the past 3 years, Martin has moved on and Stefan moved to Linz, while in Vienna a volunteer team of Associates keeps things going. They are supported by a very committed and dedicated board, together with a reasonable number of supporters.
The major emphasis of the Vienna ministry continues to be Reach The City (although in 2007 this is taking a sabbatical break), but evangelism and training continues year round, making the best of any opportunity.
Read about the Snowball Training year .
More to come, including plenty of photos...
And much more on the Gerrman language site.