Mission Opportunity Prompts Many to Study for Pastoral Ministry

Newbold College’s One Year in Mission and Service (OYIMS) program celebrated its 5th anniversary on July 8. A beautiful three-way collaboration between Newbold College of Higher Education (NCHE), the Trans-European Division (TED) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA), the program is designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn about the Bible, theology, and mission while also gaining practical experience in ministry.

The program’s 5th anniversary was celebrated on the Newbold campus with a graduation ceremony that also reflected on the years of service. Students shared first-hand their experiences of serving in different parts of the world, from Cyprus to Wales. As of this year, 28 students have participated in the programs, with half later deciding to return to Newbold and study theology with the aim of serving in pastoral ministry.

Commenting on the success, strength, and impact of the program, Newbold principal Steve Currow said, “The One Year in Mission and Service program has been a life-changing experience for our students. They have learned about themselves, grown in their faith, and developed a passion for serving others. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the TED and ADRA to offer this program, and we look forward to seeing the impact of our students’ service in the years to come.”

Both teams at ADRA Europe and ADRA-United Kingdom have not only enthusiastically endorsed OYIMS but provided service opportunities for participants. Speaking on behalf of ADRA-UK, Catherine Anthony Boldeau, who attended the anniversary celebrations, reflected, “I think the collaboration is tremendous, and ADRA-UK for its part was able to provide two internships in the ADRA-UK office and supported service opportunities in Serbia, Sri Lanka, and Wales.”

The ceremony was a time of celebration and reflection. It was a reminder of the difference that can be made when people are willing to serve others. It was also a time to look forward to the future, as the program continues to change lives and make a difference in the world.

TED Youth Director Dejan Stojkovic is clear about how brilliant the program has been for youth and young adults with a straightforward invitation. “We hope you will consider joining us in this life-changing program!” he said.

The original version of this story was posted on the Trans-European Division news site.