Our Story

The Refuge, Vicenza originally began in late 1999 and  organized in 2000 under the coordination of Doug Elliott.  Then, after having been closed for several years during the base realignment  closures. August of 2006, under the leadership of  Rich and Rhonda Hanssen, The Refuge was replanted in a small apartment in the city of Vicenza–with 11  in attendance.  A few months later, they moved to Gazzo Padovano, met in the “taverna” (finished basement), gathered for fellowship lunches, and continued to do so for about five years.
The Refuge partnered with the Freedom Outreach International – Ministry to the Military (MTTM), which ministers in US military locations throughout Europe and Asia and the USA.

The Vision for every ministry and member at The Refuge, Vicenza is to offer you the opportunity to take part in a community of believers that will help you learn, grow and further your walk with Christ. The results of that vision is to carry the mission of Jesus Christ to every neighborhood, starting in Vicenza and expanding globally.

Our vision is a picture of where we are going.  In the future we see every neighborhood included in the kingdom of Jesus.  It’s not about a certain part of town or even a specific part of the world.  It’s about seeing the mission of Jesus reach anyone and everyone.

Our mission is all about how we accomplish the vision that God has given us as his church.  Everything hinges on the last thing Jesus told his disciples. Our mission statement is a 21st century rewording of the great commission - go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:16-18).

Our desire is to develop creative ministry opportunities to reach our community for Christ.  Our special planned events are done with that vision in mind.