Connections Archive

Brenton Stacey
Public relations officer
Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia

Twenty-four Avondale students are leading Bible studies with their classmates following the first of the college's bi-annual Festival of Faith.

The students are mostly first-and second-year theology students. They are receiving training from chaplain Dr Wayne French. "I asked, 'Can you help me?' and they said, 'Oh yeah.' They were keen." Wayne teaches the Bible study to the students over three classes. "It's exciting to see so many people who are enthusiastic about their faith," he says.

Wayne speaks of the benefits of having students teach students, noting in particular the use of relevant language. "We don't have to reinterpret the Bible study for those receiving it." However, he admits some of the students leading the studies are nervous. "They're asking, 'Am I doing the right thing?' But the fact they're sharing a study of the Bible means they're studying the Bible." Wayne acknowledges the role of the Holy Spirit. "There's potential growth for the student getting the study and the student giving the study."

Some 128 of those attending the Friday evening meeting during Festival of Faith responded to a call by speaker Pastor Dick Duerksen. Sixty-four requested Bible studies; 11 requested baptism. About 45 students are still studying-it has been impossible to contact some who requested the studies-with Bruce Manners.

Caption: Clark Riggins (left) and Orlando Berry (right) prepare to lead their Bible studies.
Credit: Ann Stafford