In a lot of ways, our holistic approach to ministry is very simple. We want to develop relationships with non-Christian and Christian international students in a way where we can immerse them in natural evangelism, discipleship and multiplication. From our large dinners on campus Friday nights to helping students pick up furniture, we aim to make Christ known clearly and regularly. 

Other elements to our ministry model include (1) home groups, (2) weekday Bible discussions and (3) field trips! For this month’s prayer letter I want to focus on these three because they are genuinely reasons to praise the Lord this last month! 

“Home groups” are when we take a break from meeting on campus and instead, we meet in staff and volunteer homes. April 12 was our last home group for the spring and it was truly a great one! We had Hindu and Muslim students – along with a whole family come, whose kids got to enjoy some playtime with our kids. Our discussion was on “purpose and work,” which of course ended with a gospel presentation. The father of the family is a student at Stevens and the following week he joined again at our large group dinner on Friday night! Pray for them as we pursue a relationship with them!

“Weekday Bible discussions” are simply Bible studies for both Christians and non-Christians. We have about 10 students committed to these. Both virtual and in-person. Both Christians and one non-Christian, whom I get to meet with in person this semester. Pray for all of them but especially pray for “Samuel.” I have mentioned him before, but he truly surprises me with his interest in Christian “wisdom” (as he calls it) even though he is still a strong Muslim. I am hoping for a breakthrough for him.

“Field trips” are a great way for us to show students a great time, let our guard down and just get to know them a little more! On Saturday 4/20 we took students hiking. It was awesome. We had about 23 students and 5 drivers make the entire day an enjoyable one. Most of these students are regulars who come on Fridays, but some are new faces who end up coming to our dinners because of the fun activity. 

Finally, please pray for all the non-Christian students who join us and hear the gospel. Our staff, volunteers and Christian students  have relationships with dozens of them. Truly. And at this point, they have heard the gospel for at least the whole semester and perhaps for several semesters! Only Christ can show them their need for Him, and we are hoping and praying He does pour out His Spirit in the weeks and months to come ! Thank you for praying and for your partnership in the gospel!