Larry & Jill Couch

BOSNIA

Before coming to Sarajevo in 2007, Larry and Jill served with EFCA ReachGlobal in Russia for six years. They have three adult children and eight grandchildren, who all live in Iowa. Prior to ministry with ReachGlobal, Larry had served as a pastor in the US and had participated in four overseas mission trips.

During their first three years in Sarajevo, Larry and Jill focused on language  acquisition and building relationships, while also assisting in the ministry of Nova Nada Center, a key outreach tool/ministry for the Sarajevo City Team. Church planting is underway through the establishment and development of a network of house churches in Sarajevo. Larry focuses on mentoring and training men, particularly with the development of potential house church leaders as a target.

Jill oversees the financial administration of the ministry center and assists in outreach ministry to women and children through English camps that are held 2-4 times per year.

Three years ago, the Sarajevo City Team found an opportunity to minister to troops at Camp Butmir (jointly operated by NATO and EUFOR) as chaplains – every Sunday an English service is offered. Larry preaches each week; attendees at the service have included American, British, Irish, Polish, and French soldiers along with a variety of other missionaries from Sarajevo.

In May 2010, Larry became RD Sarajevo City Team leader, giving oversight to the team and interfacing with ReachGlobal Europe leadership.