Ariyani dreaded the idea of travelling to a rural village by motorbike. She aspires to be in a ministry position in her church, performing on the stage, not traversing Indonesia’s “adventurous” roads.
Ariyana studies at the Christian Church Theological School of Indonesia (CCTSI).
Students at CCTSI come from various locations in Indonesia. Many are from tiny islands, each rich in culture and language. Every student studying at CCTSI is brought together by the common purpose of preparing to share the love of Jesus and bring hope to their communities. Learning from one another challenges students and helps them experience God’s transformation.
Leadership is something that comes naturally to Ariyani. She has a cheerful heart and easily communicates with others. CCTSI is helping her to reach her full potential.
Hery Susanto, Director of CCTSI, says, “The educational journey at the college isn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about personal growth.” Students learn humility, discipline, and the importance of serving others.
Hery says, “It is not just about theological knowledge but sharpening her [Ariyani’s] heart to see the difference and deepening her empathy and sense of love at the same time.”
While studying at CCTSI, Ariyani’s heart changed. She pursued her theological studies because she hoped to be on stage, performing in her church, to be “seen”. She likes to perform on the stage, singing and dancing, and is good at it, but she has learned to use those skills for the good of others.
“Doing ministry is about serving others and humbling ourselves to respect and love others without taking benefit for ourselves,” she said.
As Ariyani has immersed herself in her studies at CCTSI over the past four years, she has developed a new passion for helping children and families.
Hery says, “She knows that she came from a broken family and [experienced] a broken heart with her friends, yet she wants to rise up and help children to have a brighter future through a good education.”
Ariyani can now face the rough and adventurous roads of rural Indonesia. At first, she had to find the courage to serve in the rural villages. Now, she says, “I have love. So, I look forward to going to the villages to share that love.”
Ariyani isn’t the only student at CCTSI to experience God’s transformation in their life.
Another student was born into a Christian home but did not realise the importance of baptism as part of his journey of faith. During his time at CCTSI, he dedicated his life to God again. He was baptised with nine other students in his class!
One more student shared his journey of learning humility. “I don’t like to be told what to do. To be controlled by laws and rules.” The student shared. “Since being here, I have learned to sweep the floors and serve. It was very difficult for me [to learn].”
The Christian Church Theological School of Indonesia is creating leaders who share the love of Christ and prioritise their communities over their ambitions. They run children’s ministry and education, open small businesses or start other initiatives that meet the needs of their communities.
“The hope [that we bring to others] is not just an empty promise. It should be actualised in word and deed,” Hery explains.
This Easter you can empower Christian leaders like Ariyani. Donate to the Global Mission Partners Easter Appeal. By investing in local leaders, you become part of a shared mission to transform lives and spread God’s love where it’s needed most.