High-impact connections: Reaching university students for Christ
Universities are places where the faith of Christians is put to the test. Christian students need to know they are not alone and how to share the gospel with their classmates. Read more about how this ministry is impacting young students at the universities of Loja.

By Carlos Ruiz, Ecuador in South America

Universities are places where the Christian faith is often put to the test, and many students don't know how to successfully debate humanist and postmodern ideas using the Bible. Through group meetings and Bible study, our ministry seeks to empower young Christians so their faith will be strengthened and not fade away in times of testing. We want them to use this stage of life to share their faith and come together with other Christians during monthly meetings and student camps.

Pablo C., an architecture student from one of Loja's universities, tells how young Christians from all over Ecuador meet once a year at a Christian camp. "What caught my attention at the camp was the unity that existed between the men and women that attended," he says. "It didn't matter which city they had come from--the love of Christ that unites us prevailed throughout the camp. I liked the devotionals, biblical exposition and workshops. The workshops were incredible. Camps like these are opportunities from God to grow closer to Him, learn more about Him, and remember the true meaning of the gospel to share it with others. "

The Community of Evangelical Students of Ecuador (CECE) began reaching university students with the gospel in Loja more than 25 years ago. Some former students who grew spiritually because of this ministry are now pastors. Today CECE serves more than 15,000 students in the Loja university community. CECE focuses on reaching young people between the ages of 18 to 25 to disciple them and equip to become leaders that will influence their congregations, universities, and society in general.