'I have witnessed the growth of this group from a handful to the current twenty-five. What I like is the vast range of people -I do not necessarily refer to nationality. We have some very devout Christians, few skeptics and even non-believers. I welcome this diversity because different perspectives make the group meaningful, encouraging depth in thoughts.' Adelaide Ariel (Indonesia), third-year PhD, EDTE: 'The meetings are very uplifting; they unite me with Christians from different parts of the world. I see this as part of the fulfillment of the prophecy by Jesus that the gospel would reach the ends of the earth. The most important part of the meeting is the unison in prayer; we pray for each other and the problems facing various parts of the world.'
Olasaju Olaofe (Nigeria), TwAIO, TNW: 'I got to know of it through a Dutch Christian student group. I attended a meeting and felt at home immediately. I enjoy meeting people from different parts of the world but the most important part is to practice my faith, to grow in it and learn more with others. This means a lot to me and it has given me a lotàà.some very good friendships.Æ Ann-Sofie Hallbaeck (Sweden), second-year PhD, TNW: 'It is enriching to get to the core of my religious beliefs, unmask them and see them in a new light -..different from the social and cultural stereotypes in which they have been firmly entrenched over time. Also, I look forward to debates, intellectual discussions about abstract and spiritual concepts and their relevance to our daily lives; this group presents a wonderful opportunity.'
Mirna Sunna (Jordan), TwAIO, TNW: 'We are a multi-faceted-fellowship, family away from home, brothers and sisters in Christ. I practiced my faith back home and I was wonderfully amazed at a few members who came to Christ through the Fellowship. Spiritually, it has been a blessing for me - the Fellowship has directed me towards the ultimate goal of every follower of Jesus - to be like Christ himself.'
Joseph (India), fourth-year PhD, EL: 'Every person in the group reads the Bible from his/her background and culture. It does result in differences but the most important things are common to all. The different ways in which we experience God is refreshing to see. Not all our members are convinced Christians. We welcome people who are just interested in Christian faith too. We also organise outings- this year we visited Friesland, Maastricht, Volendam among others.'
For more information visit www.student.utwente.nl/~ifes'
