Champfleuri is a camp that has been organizing youth and childrens’ retreats for 50 years. Located in the French Alps, it is a perfect place for ski camps in the winter and breath-taking hikes in the summer. The center is a 15-minute drive from Grenoble, site of the 1968 Winter Olympics.

In fall of 2005, we launched a 3-month Bible School called DEFI (Discipulat : Ecole de Formation biblique Internationale) which means the « Challenge ». This short-term Bible School is in association with the worldwide organisation of the Torchbearers which counts 25 Bible School/centers all around the world, but this is the first one in France.

“Our mission is to proclaim the transforming presence of Jesus Christ through biblical teaching and practical training, equipping men and women for service in His church worldwide.” (torchbearers) mission statement

Our program is designed for 18-30 year-olds. All courses are in French. Therefore, a good working knowledge of French is required. As part of the application process, you will be given a test that will help us evaluate your level of French.

Because DEFI is not only a Bible School, but also a « life school », each student is actively implicated in the daily life of the school and the retreat center, Champfleuri. Each student has daily and weekly tasks to accomplish (cleaning, cooking, gardening etc) and is also involved in the occasional work needs of the center.

Above all, students have the opportunity to progress in their knowledge of the Bible by attending courses and by taking advantage of mandatory study times. At the same time they will be able to share what they are learning and how God is impacting and changing them during small group sharing times.

To know more about the bible school you can also have a look at our video!