Relaunching the 316 Community in Brussels
At the end of October 2024, the 316@28 gallery in Brussels re-opened its doors to the public!
We asked two of our ID students, Kate Enslin and Madeleine Smith, to tell us more about what God was doing at the relaunch weekend. Kate and Madeleine paint a beautiful picture of vibrant, prophetic evangelism that is both exciting and inspiring. God is certainly on the move in Brussels, and the visual arts continue to play a significant role in Jesus’s transformation of hearts.
Let’s pray that God will pour more blessings on 316@28 and everyone who works hard to make it an effective tool for the Kingdom throughout 2025.
Relaunching the 316@28 Community in Brussels
By Kate Enslin and Madeleine Smith
From October 31st to November 4th, 2024, four volunteers had the privilege of spending a weekend in Brussels to support the relaunch of the 3:16@28 Grand Place community. What was meant to be a simple visit turned into a profound experience that showcased the powerful ways God uses creativity to reach hearts and transform lives. It was a weekend filled with art, worship, and stories, reminding us how sharing Jesus in diverse ways can have a deep and lasting impact.
You can follow them on Instagram at @316_community
What is 3:16@28?
Born out of a desire to evangelise the multi-linguistic, multicultural, international city of Brussels, 3:16@28 is a pop-up, prophetic art gallery that uses creative arts (specifically visual arts) to present the gospel in powerful ways. Bridget and Steve Bree (founders of 316@28) are passionate about the intersection between art and faith, and it’s this passion that drives their desire to see the gallery magnify Jesus, not only through creative mediums but by meeting the diverse needs of their local community. As such, they prioritise creating a warm and welcoming space for visitors, residents, and believers alike.
The original project emerged in response to a prophecy that the Brees received in July 2022, in which God, somewhat cryptically, outlined the importance of 'gold and jewellery’. They didn’t know it straight away, but the gallery's location would be 28 Grand Place, a building in the heart of Brussels that used to be the Guild of Gold Traders! 316@28 opened in December 2023 and quickly established itself as a powerfully evangelistic and prophetic space where God loves to speak to visitors through various artistic forms.
The relaunch weekend followed a six-week break, which enabled the team to rest and clarify the vision after a hectic but fruitful start to the project. Now, it’s bigger and better than ever. One of many great new additions is the Discovery Bible Study (DBS) initiative, held on Friday evenings. DBS creates a safe space to ask questions, investigate faith, and learn about Jesus without judgement or pressure.
Thanks to many prayers and sizable donations, 316@28's mission to receive numerous guests and host multiple meetings where people can unite in worship and prayer will remain possible throughout 2025!
Making time to listen to visitors has led to incredible spiritual conversations
The Heartbeat of 316@28: Evangelism and Prayer
Whether it’s the striking visuals or the warm atmosphere that envelopes you, 316@28 exists to speak to the deepest parts of who we are, often in ways words cannot. For many, the artwork opens a door—a way to begin to understand and process emotions, including the ones that point them toward Jesus. But this type of evangelism is only possible and effective because prayer underpins and empowers everything.
The 316@28 team spend a lot of time in the prayer room, interceding for the city of Brussels, the people of Belgium, and all those who would walk through the gallery doors. It was wonderful to be part of this during the relaunch weekend. On many occasions, as we prayed and filled the space with worship, God breathed life into the building, empowering us to be a beacon of light to the city.
A TikTok Discovery
At one point during the relaunch, a group of German Bible study students visited the gallery after discovering it on TikTok. Yes, TikTok! We really do live in a world where algorithms can lead you anywhere. Shortly after the students arrived, it became clear their visit wouldn’t only involve seeing art—it would also include experiencing something more profound.
They spent hours examining the art of Elize Retief (@elizeretief) and engaging in deep, thoughtful conversations. The more they explored, the more they saw the gallery's value and deep spiritual significance.
And then, they found the prayer room! Without hesitation, they began dancing and praising Jesus. The tangible joy and freedom were a testament to the way God works through creative forms. At that moment, I realised that 316@28 isn’t just an art gallery; it’s a spiritual hub. The art might draw people in, but they’re ultimately touched by Jesus's love and presence.
An example of the impactful prophetic art by Elize Retief that visitors experience
The Power of Worship
One of my favourite moments occurred during a shift on welcome duty. We sat at the gallery entrance quietly singing worship songs (as you do) when a woman entered. As soon as she noticed our singing, a look of surprise shot across her face. In a thick Irish accent, she said, ‘I love your singing. Are you singing about Jesus?’ We nodded, and her face beamed. Without hesitation, she turned on her heels and rushed outside. Moments later, she returned with her family in tow. While we can never reach definitive conclusions when it comes to reading people, the family seemed to experience a genuine sense of peace and the love of God during their time in the gallery.
That moment proved that sharing the gospel doesn’t always require grand words; sometimes, the quiet sound of worship can be just as effective at touching hearts and drawing people in.
The Body of Christ at Work
One of the most encouraging parts of the relaunch weekend was witnessing the incredible team of volunteers from different churches and backgrounds serve in unity. Whether it’s welcoming visitors, guiding people through the gallery, leading worship, or making a great cup of tea, the volunteers exemplify how God can unite people for a greater purpose.
As I reflect on the weekend, it’s clear that 316@28 is a place where God is at work, using creativity and community to reach His people in Brussels and beyond. The relaunch wasn’t just about opening a new space—it was about continuing the mission to share Jesus.
Kate Enslin
Kate is an ID intern at The City Church Canterbury. Her time is spent helping plan various student/youth work events. She enjoys being outside in nature, doing all things creative, and spending time with her friends and community.
Madeleine Smith
Madeleine is an ID intern at Cœur de Grace Church in Lille, France. She spends most of her time working with the youth and kids and leading worship at church. She particularly loves connecting with people from different cultures and communities.