Nanda’s mother is a Christian, and her father is a Muslim. As a child, Nanda experienced both worlds. “Each week,” she said, “sometimes I went to church, sometimes to mosque.” Even with this exposure, she said, “I didn’t know anything about church and ministry.”
This is not unusual in Indonesia. Islam is the main religion, and Christianity represents only 11% of the population.
As part of Nanda’s search to find a deeper faith, a friend recommended that she study at the Christian Church Theological School of Indonesia (CCTSI) “to be a better person.”
While at Bible College, she grew in her faith and learned about ministry. She realised that her identity and life purpose are in Jesus. “Christ has redeemed me, so I might have a different life,” she testified.
CCTSI is one of our international church partners. The college equips students with theological training and practical ministry skills, encouraging them to develop a vocation alongside ministry. This enables them to serve communities and build relationships while sharing the gospel.
Nanda shared, “I began to have a heart for children who couldn’t get an education because they don’t have financial support. Also, my heart was touched by elderly people who are afraid to live in old age and prepare for their death.”
While studying, Nanda also gained a life motto: ‘Being a home for the lost.’ This motto became real to her as she ministered during her one-year practicum in Bali, where she worked with prisoners, those with mental illnesses, and young people desperately looking for someone to trust.
CCTSI arranges community placements for all ministry students as part of their education. The students live in communities to share the gospel and bless the locals. Supported by the college staff, they respond to the community's needs, forming relationships, running ministries, and even beginning missional businesses!
Though Nanda may have grown up unsure of her spirituality, she is now certain that she has God’s love within her!
“God put something in my heart: love for others,” she said.
When you give the Great Gift of a Student Pastor Placement, you enable students like Nanda to live in communities as examples of God’s love. Nanda and many other students are passionate about sharing their faith with others. Your gift can bless a community with a Christian presence and support an emerging pastor in their theological education.
Nanda is grateful for the support of Australian individuals and supporters like you.
“I praise God that I’m not alone in this ministry through this partnership,” she shared.
You can give this Great Gift and many others.
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