In 1989 Henry Martin, then ASI President, worked for a time at Country Life in Paris. An ASI chapter had been formed in Great Britain in 1983 and it seemed logical for the concept to spread into continental Europe.

The Swiss and German chapters were the first to be formed with the Franco-Belgian, Italian and Czech chapters following. The six national chapters, representing about 250 members, are autonomous, with their own boards, constitutions, programmes and meetings.

The idea of a convention at which all the national chapters could meet was launched by Bernard Beranger, the Franco-Belgian ASI president. Organised by ASI Italy, the Convention convened in Rome in 1996 and was a great success. It was supported by representatives from the General Conference, ASI NAD and both European Divisions.

At a meeting attended by R. Folkenberg, GC President, U.Frikart, Euro-Africa Division President, B.Wicklander, Trans-European Division President, H.Lance and D.Hilldebrant, ASI NAD, and several ASI National Chapter Presidents, it was decided to explore the possibility of forming a European Association comprised of all the National Chapters.

The European Division Presidents were enthusiastic about the idea and invited ASI representatives to present the concept to the Conference Presidents during the Division Committees. These presentations were warmly received by the Conference Presidents and encouragement given for the expansion of the work of ASI.

Accordingly, plans were laid for a Convention in Paris in 1998. Representatives from all the chapters attended as well as interested persons from both Divisions. Pastors Frikart and Wicklander both spoke at the Convention and praised the vision and foresight of ASI members.

At the business session on 30th April 1998 ASI Europe was formally convened and officer and board members elected.

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