Why Student Life is special
Posted by Anne Witton on Thursday, February 19, 2015 Under: Ministry
Our aim at Student Life is to create a welcoming and inclusive community where people of all backgrounds and beliefs feel valued and listened to. We encourage people to make friends, enjoy free food, explore life's big questions and encounter Jesus in a safe environment where they can be themselves.
Kimberley and Jack did a seminar on community and gospel living at the Fireseeds conference and they asked students for their thoughts about Student Life. Here are some of the responses:
“Student Life is so inclusive… it’s one of the most diverse groups I’ve ever been part of.”
“I can meet and talk with other people and hear about different experiences from people in other countries.” Bella
“When I first came to Student Life I thought everyone else was Christian so shared my faith really openly. Then I realised they weren’t (which made sense of some comments!) but that it was ok, they were accepting of what I had to say.” Megan
“I’ve been telling my church group it’s mostly not Christians coming together each week to talk about Jesus and spiritual things. They don’t get it but it just works!” Christine
“The community has impacted me in helping me deal with difficult problems in my life… talking things through or taking my mind off things. I’ve enhanced my understanding of religion as a concept and specifically Christianity.”
“I became the Student Life president because I think it’s a worthwhile thing to help build up the sense of community that we create. And helping people to explore the big questions of life is personally fulfilling for me.” Michael
“I’ve gained the confidence to explore Christ more and share that with others, which I’ve found difficult in the past.” Emilie
“I’ve learnt following God is not so much about what I can do by myself but there’s a lot more about sharing life with other people instead of going it alone.” Miriam
“People ask how you actually are rather than superficially ‘how are you… see you later’.”
“There’s an intrinsic trust that you don’t need to ask or demand, you can just expect it.” Alex
“Student Life is a place to come when I’m feeling down.” Manu
“When I’m in the Student Life community I feel safe. I can be my complete self rather than parts of myself. I don’t have to hide anything. It’s being part of a family really.”
“I love the friendships that are made here. It’s a great place to begin relationships.” Andreia
“It was so welcoming when I first came, I’ve never looked back. It’s the best decision I’ve ever made to come to the event after refreshers.” Sarah
“You feel really comfortable being yourself. I feel like I’ve been opened up to new ideas by different people.” Sophie
“It’s the only place I’ve found where I feel I fit in… The food’s pretty good too!” Emma
In : Ministry
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