First Independent ZGG Congregation Established in Albania

Rizallaraj, a 48-year-old minister, has passed his church exams to lead the Delvinë congregation in Albania. According to Zending Gereformeerde Gemeenten (ZGG), this marks the first instance of an independent congregation emerging from their mission work, which began in the country in 1994.

The transition comes after Rizallaraj completed his diploma at the Bible school in May. He has now been admitted to the ministry of Word and sacraments, as confirmed by ds. H.J. Agteresch following the examination. This move signals a shift from foreign-led mission work toward local, indigenous church leadership in Southeast Europe.

How did Rizallaraj qualify for the ministry?

Rizallaraj passed a rigorous church examination led by church committee member Kostaq Xuxi. The exam focused on three primary pillars: the Epistle to the Hebrews, covenant theology, and the history of the Reformation. Because a formal classis does not yet exist in the region, the ZGG deputyship handled the examination process.

The assessment included a trial sermon based on John 10:16. Present for the proceedings were ZGG director Paul Eikelboom and deputates J. Willemsen and ds. H.J. Agteresch. Following the exam, ds. Agteresch stated that Rizallaraj was admitted to the ministry “with full confidence.”

What happens next for the Delvinë congregation?

The Delvinë church is moving toward full autonomy. A formal confirmation ceremony for Rizallaraj will take place in a few months, alongside the confirmation of other office-bearers. This event will officially establish the first independent congregation born out of ZGG’s mission efforts.

This is a significant milestone compared to the mission’s early days. While ZGG has operated in Albania since 1994, the goal has been to move from foreign oversight to local sustainability. The installation of a local minister is the final step in that process.

How is ZGG expanding across Albania?

The mission began in the southern town of Delvinë but has since spread to other regions. ZGG has established mission congregations in Tepelenë and Durrës, and has recently started work in Paskuqan. Currently, 10 Dutch missionary families are active in the country, providing support and training.

The trajectory of Rizallaraj’s career reflects the broader strategy of the organization. He began serving the Delvinë community as an evangelist in 2021. By 2023, he was admitted to ministerial training, culminating in his recent certification.

Comparison: The Evolution of ZGG’s Albanian Presence

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Rizallaraj?
Rizallaraj is a 48-year-old minister who recently passed his church exams to lead the Delvinë congregation in Albania.

What is ZGG?
Zending Gereformeerde Gemeenten (ZGG) is a mission organization that has worked in Albania since 1994 to establish Reformed churches.

Why was the exam conducted by the deputyship?
According to ZGG, the exam was handled by the deputyship because a formal classis—the body normally responsible for such exams in Reformed church law—has not yet been established in the region.