Have you wanted to travel around the world and see new things and meet new people? Do you currently attend a school or university? If you answered yes to both of these, then you might have the opportunity of a lifetime!
Most colleges and universities offer a program called “Study Abroad”. These programs allow students to travel to a different part of the world while still attending classes and progressing in their degrees. You get to experience a whole new culture. You can immerse yourself in Spain, or somewhere in Africa. Usually these programs last about a semester, which is long enough to really get to know the area and some of the people. Often times, there is a modest fee for the opportunity. Most students can even get someone to sponsor them if they try hard enough. The benefits are numerous to these types of programs. Please check out your school and see if they have any of these types of programs available. They will help you to grow as a person. They will even give you the opportunity to meet and greet new people, and share the gospel with them!
That might be the biggest benefit of studying abroad, is being able to share the gospel with those who you might not otherwise have known. You will meet new people, with totally different beliefs. They will challenge your faith, and help make you stronger. We can be confident though, because we have the truth. There are so many different spiritual beliefs out there. Most people haven’t heard the good news about Jesus and his salvation. You have the opportunity to help save souls. If you are interested in traveling, and in ministering to others, this is a hard opportunity to pass up. If you don’t have the money, look into getting sponsors. Who knows, you might even start a church in a new country, and save hundreds of souls!
The North American Division of Seventh Day Aventists recommends study abroad programs. If you are seeking funding through us, contact your local SDA church minister. They will be able to help you clarify your goals and motivations for studying abroad. They will also be able to help get you funding through either the local church, or they will contact a higher level director. Our goal as a church is to spread the gospel, and we want to encourage you to do everything you can do accomplish that mission.