Global Collaboration in Christian Education: Dr. Angela Patterson Hosts Conference and Visits Schools in Europe
June 22, 2026
By Brittany Steward
From late April through early May 2026, Dr. Angela Patterson, ACSI Senior Director for International Schools Division, traveled across Europe to connect with Christian school leaders, strengthen regional partnerships, and visit ACSI member schools serving students in diverse settings.
The journey began in Dubrovnik, Croatia, at the ACSI International School Leaders Conference (ISLC), where Christian educators from around the world gathered for encouragement, professional growth, and fellowship. The conference provided an opportunity for leaders to step away from the demands of daily school operations and engage in meaningful conversations about best practices and the future of Christian education.
One of the conference highlights was a keynote session led by Paul Matthews, who traveled from Tasmania, Australia to guide attendees through a theology of artificial intelligence. His presentation challenged leaders to think carefully about how Christian schools can navigate emerging technologies with wisdom and discernment.
The conference provided a powerful reminder that Christian educators are part of a much larger global mission. Through shared conversations, prayer, and fellowship, leaders were encouraged to persevere in their calling and strengthened by the experiences of others.
Eric Moore, Director of ACSI-accredited member Kyiv Christian Academy, reflected on the impact of the gathering.
“This community of school leaders has been a vital blessing for me and my staff at KCA—to gather and celebrate all that the Lord is doing, to encourage and pray for one another—it has been restoring.”
Another participant shared how the conference broadened their overall perspective.
“I came with some questions about my school, and God answered them through the speakers. We often complain about our own conditions, but seeing a school teaching under the sound of sirens and military drones reminded me that God is with them just as He is with us. We were so covered in our own problems, but this conference showed us others who face even greater challenges yet remain happy and continue to praise God.”
One theme of the trip was the generosity of God’s people.
“In Dubrovnik, a small Protestant church generously offered its keyboard and guitar for use during conference gatherings,” Patterson said. “Their willingness to share their resources served as an example of Christian hospitality and partnership. Members of the church also asked conference attendees to pray that God would break down spiritual strongholds in the city of Dubrovnik and draw more people into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ."
During Patterson’s visit to Hungary, Dr. Kristi Hiltibran, Head of the International Christian School of Budapest, graciously opened her home and provided hospitality during the visit.
Another recurring theme was the creative stewardship demonstrated by the schools Patterson visited.
None of the campuses were originally designed as schools, yet each has been transformed into a thriving learning environment.
Great Grace International School in Budapest operates within a historic government building. The International Christian School of Budapest serves students on a campus that was once a factory. Likewise, the International Christian School of Vienna continues to maximize its current retrofitted factory facility while pursuing a future purpose-built campus.
Across each location, leaders have learned to make the most of every available space. Classrooms, common areas, and even attic spaces have been adapted to meet educational needs.
During her travels, Patterson spent time with the ACSI Europe Office exploring opportunities for future collaboration and discussing ways to strengthen support for Christian schools across the region.
“One of the greatest benefits of gathering face-to-face is the opportunity to gain perspective. Stepping away from daily routines creates space for reflection, renewal, and a clearer understanding of God's work beyond one's own community,” Patterson said.
As ACSI continues to serve Christian schools worldwide, opportunities such as the ISLC and school visits remain vital for fostering connections, encouraging leaders, and advancing the mission of Christian education globally.