Ready for the Thirsty

“Christ must be my goal. I’ve learned to think before I speak and put Christ first in all areas of my life. As exemplary ambassadors for Christ, we must share God’s priceless love with those around us.”

Victoire was now ready to share Christ’s living waters with the thirsty on her campus in Togo. But where did this passion come from?

In August, she joined 200 others from around the country to participate in the National Camp-Congress of GBUST, the IFES movement in Togo.

Josué Aziadekey, GBUST General Secretary, says such gatherings in the Francophone Africa region are vital for strengthening mission and building unity. He adds, “they are much more than events: they are catalysts for transformation and renewal”. Participants often travel long distances, sometimes from areas targeted by terrorists.

Ready to Receive

In Togo, many students arrived at camp from challenging situations.

In the northern zone bordering Burkina Faso, GBUST small groups have had to close due to security concerns, while other students across the country are seeing the rise of materialism and spiritual indifference. And in the name of secularism, some schools and universities are increasingly resistant to GBU activities on campus.

Through a week of prayer, Bible studies, and workshops, students were refreshed and equipped under the theme “Every season: a generation of thirsty students – and a generation of ready messengers.” Discussions tackled contemporary issues such as artificial intelligence, youth, and sexuality. Seeing how Scripture addresses these topics, the students grasped how impactful GBUST Bible groups can be for society.

Through the camp’s Congress, the movement also received Josué as its new General Secretary – a healthy transition that boosted the movement’s momentum and its readiness to face new challenges.

Ready to Go

Students departed refreshed, ready for service:

“As young Christians, we must be excellent in our studies and professional lives. And we must live well among those who don’t know God so that they would want to know Christ. Our words should bring happiness and not break other people’s hearts.” Welborn

“Our universities aren’t always up to the task of producing leaders who will benefit our nations. We must return to the fundamental principles of the gospel, putting aside distractions and focusing on our mission. I learned that as Christians we should bring the light of Christ to our country’s challenges.” Elise

With Christ’s living waters in them, here are two more messengers now ready to serve the thirsty.

Pray

Praise God with GBUST for his work through 50 years of student ministry in Togo. Give thanks for his work at the camp and his provision of Josué as the new General Secretary.

Pray for Victoire, Welborn, Elise, and the other students at camp – that they will continue to find refreshment in God as they “share God’s love”, “speak uplifting words”, and “bring Christ’s light” – that they will spread renewal to GBUST groups, universities, and society.

On 1-9 August 2025, delegates from all IFES movements in Francophone Africa will gather in Côte d’Ivoire for the seventh Pan-African Conference (PANAF). Pray for this strategic opportunity to strengthen unity and discern future ministry in the region.