Joyce thought that she didn’t need God in her life when she came to the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA, as a freshman. Occasionally, Erin Murray, InterVarsity campus staff, would stop by Joyce’s room to talk. As they talked, their conversations ended with the Christian understanding of Jesus, sin, justice, the church, or God’s character.
The summer between her freshman and sophomore years, one of Joyce’s friends was going to Berkeley, California, with a group from her church to share the gospel and serve residents. Although Joyce was not a Christian, she was curious and wanted to know more about Jesus after her conversations with Erin. Joyce decided to participate in the outreach event. “After I saw God’s heart for justice in the world and the work Christians in Berkeley and Oakland are doing to seek justice, I began reading the gospels. I wanted to know more,” Joyce said.
Back on campus, Erin led a small group in Joyce’s dorm. During her sophomore year, Joyce began attending. As the students discussed God’s love, grace, and justice in the gospel of Matthew, Joyce began to know Jesus as her Savior and friend. “Together, we’re studying and trying to figure out what it means to know Jesus as Lord,” Joyce said.
Joyce continues to participate in weekly Bible study. She also has begun attending a local church.
Four other students at the University of the Pacific accepted Christ as Lord of their lives last semester and have begun attending weekly InterVarsity large group meetings, as well as small group Bible studies. Across the country, InterVarsity staff and students are inviting members of their campus community into personal relationships with Jesus Christ as they share the gospel.
