South East Bloc: Campus Ministry Workshop – Love God, Change the World

The campus ministry of the South-East Bloc of the International Church of Christ recently held its first-ever workshop from July 2nd to July 4th, 2021. In attendance were 28 participants from the Churches that make up the bloc: Calabar, Uyo, Owerri, Yenagoa, and Port Harcourt. The workshop took place at the Garden City Port Harcourt, Rivers State with the theme “Love God; Change the World”

On arrival, participants were welcomed by the Coordinators Nathaniel Afamoh and Chibuke Dike with several words of prayer. The program began with an introduction of all participants after which there was a viewing of the movie Mel Gibson’s directed Hacksaw Ridge. Dinner commenced afterward and this signaled the end of the first day’s activities.

The second day of the workshop began with lots of enthusiasm and expectations by the participants. A short message on the movie was delivered by Tonye Bob-Manuel in which he encouraged everyone to hold on to the teachings of God.

A few participants Diana Agwu and Mami Joy shared how they were handling financial challenges, overcoming peer pressures, and balancing it all with spirituality while being on campus.

Also in attendance were different facilitators who spoke on their experiences and challenges faced during their time at the university. They also spoke on how they were able to balance spiritual life with campus/academic demands while coping with worldly tendencies. Some of the facilitators present were Ella Jemilusi, Doris Jemigbeyi, Nathaniel Afamoh, Tonye Bob-Manuel, Peace, and Ogbemudia Igbinoba.

A few participants had the opportunity of sharing and encouraging others on the need to stay faithful to God regardless of the challenges faced while on campus. Discussions on how to have an effective daily bible study, lead a Bible talk, and win souls in the various campuses using the Discovery Bible Study (DBS) approach were delivered by Tochukwu Nwaribe and Ogbemudia Igbinoba.

Practical sessions were held in which all participants contributed to and resolved to go back to their campuses and build small groups (Bible talk).

Objectives/Achievements from day 2

• Participants were able to express their struggles and also ask deep questions that affected them.
• Participants were able to understand how bible talk works, how to lead a bible talk, and also how to reach out to friends.
• Participants bonded and made new friends.
• A faith revival occurred in the hearts of participants

The day ended with a jean party which was anchored by the Igbinobas. It was a time to build friendships and unwind.

The 3day workshop came to a close with a worship service which also was a combined service of all sectors in the Port Harcourt church. The coordinator, Nathaniel Afamoh reminded everyone of the need to keep loving God and showing the same love to God’s people. The service had 157 people in attendance including visitors from the University of Port Harcourt.