READY TO DO MISSIONS?

[ see photos | read testimony ]

ERIC BEAN
Baptist Student Ministry
Texas A & M University

Team make-up: There were 10 members of the team—eight students and two leaders.

Creating the team: There were several announcements made during our regular Bible studies, meetings and lunches throughout the fall semester. Anyone could attend informational meetings and meet the missionaries we would be working with. The only requirement was God’s calling and a heart for missions.

Preparation: Once the group was established, we met every week to pray, study and plan the trip.

Assignment: We helped create a foundation for a student ministry at University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, East Africa. The hope was that our relationships with students would help expand the size and spiritual depth of four missionaries’ ministry.

Morning: The morning began with getting ready, eating breakfast and having a personal quiet time with the Lord. The team met around 9 a.m. to pray, discuss the day’s plan and divide into groups of two before we left for campus. For the remainder of the morning, I walked around with my partner and talked with random students or friends we had met before. In some cases, we traveled to dorms to find students.

Afternoon: At lunch my partner and I went to the cafeteria to eat. I became quite fond of the plate of beans and rice for only about $0.70! Then for the rest of the afternoon we talked, listened and just loved students the way Christ loves them. We shared the gospel and answered questions about the Christian faith. When we returned to the house around late afternoon, I usually took a short nap before dinner. The intense sun was draining.

Evening: After dinner the team usually attended a Bible study or worship service on campus. This is where we met most of the Christians. Some of us gave our testimonies or even led the study. Before we crashed for the night, we met to discuss all the awesome things God was doing, plan for the rest of the week, laugh about culture shock and pray together.

God working: I know the missionaries’ ministry has grown, and they are closer to becoming a recognized student organization. One student that team members met with accepted Christ. God has sent other groups of students to work with the missionaries so we know He is continuing His work.

Teamwork: A team of students allows you to have someone to turn to for comfort. Being in a different country was absolutely amazing, but I still needed some “American familiarities” to keep me going.

Funny memory: After I met one student, we shook hands, and then he did not let go. We continued to walk around campus holding hands. One of the journeymen later explained that it was just an act of friendship. It took some adjustment, but by the end of the week it did not bother me.

Back at home: This year our student ministry has devoted more time and resources to mission work. Already we have begun raising funds and awareness of all the mission opportunities for this summer. Personally, I am more comfortable meeting with new students when we do outreach programs on campus.

[ back to Stories ]