EXDSXV performs in Powidz, Poland

EXDSXV performs at Powidz, Poland (David Stroupe)

On October 1, 2023 the Polish Christian Band EXDSXV (Exodus 15) performed for over 100 American troops and locals just outside the gates of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Powidz, Poland.

The concert was a joint effort between the military chaplains and the Powidz Christian Fellowship, a local branch of Freedom Outreach, a ministry to the military. The organization provided funds to the band that were raised in an effort to offset costs even though EXDSXV did not request payment.

Before singing for an American and local national audience, EXDSXV enjoyed a little taste of America when the band and their crew were treated to an American BBQ dinner prepared by a local U.S. Army Veteran.

Normally EXDSXV performs in Polish, but this performance for a large group of Americans was almost entirely in English. However, some lyrics were also sung in Polish for the local Polish-speaking fans in attendance. The band provided lyrics for their set in both English and Polish, allowing the concert to have more of a religious worship service feeling.

‘Praise and worship’ music is not typically part of the Polish Catholic faith but is part of a Protestant movement that is growing in Poland. Many locals in attendance, in addition to some Ukrainians, found the form of religious worship new and inspiring.

EXDSXV was formed in 2005 and is part of the Proem Foundation whose goal is “to reach every person with the gospel.” EXDSXV has previously performed in the U.S. and will be returning for an American tour. Their performance for the troops stationed in Powidz was a successful preshow.

The Powidz Chrisitan Fellowship was formed in October 2022. It was organized by the joint efforts of a pastor from Freedom Outreach, local American Veterans, and military chaplains to provide a ministry that supplements the services provided by the military. The ministry originally met in a local Veteran’s home before moving into a facility in Powidz this past April. Since February 2023, the ministry has also been able to conduct several Sunday afternoon services at the local culture house, which was provided free of charge by the city of Powidz. On October 1, 2023, Pastor Bob Brooks and his wife Pastor Genie Brooks became the permanent ministry team; their youngest daughter also joined them in Poland.

Freedom Outreach, a ministry to the military, has been providing ministry service to the military in Europe for over 50 years. Today they reach 17 nations and provide religious services to U.S. servicemembers that include summer camps and other outreach.