Object 3 Trip
Object 3
Part of the EU's third object is to make students aware of what is involved in the cross-cultural type of Christian service. We aim to help EU members understand
- the nature of cross-cultural work - the mechanics of what is involved, the type of person suitable, the types of skills which are usefull and a realistic picture of the joys and hardships involved.
- the needs of cross-cultural work - the scope of the need around the world, the barriers and the current availability of resources and workers.
- the challenge of cross-cultural work - given the universal Lordship of Christ and the scope of the needs world-wide, the aim is for students to be challenged about what part they can play in the meeting of those needs and the recognition of Jesus' Lordship.
(looking to support the current team or receive news? go to the bottom of this page)
Why do we run o3T?
- This short term trip is about awareness. Students are at an important point in
their lives when they are shaping their values and making decisions about their
future. It is important that Christian service is firmly on the agenda. The
awareness cultivated in both the students on the team and the many others who
will be supporting them and praying for them will have long term effects. Some
will make cross-cultural Christian service their life’s work—maybe even in
Africa. Many others will be lifelong supporters of such work.
- It is also about service. The team goes overseas to serve Christ by serving
others. It is hoped that they will make a worthwhile contribution to the cause
of Christ in the places they visit. It is also hoped that the team will enhance
the work of our partners and encourage them.
- Experience has shown that student trips such as this have a profound effect on
those who go. For some it is the first step in a long process of making cross-
cultural service their life’s work. Even those who don’t end up taking it
further, see the world from a different perspective. Students are forced to
trust God in ways that they never have before. Their identity in Christ is
strengthened as familiar points of definition are left behind.
- One student said of their EU short term trip experience:
"Even though I was constantly more stressed, I was less anxious than I am
usually at home because I had no choice but to trust God for his care and
provision every day"
- However, these trips do not only impact those who go. The whole EU group
becomes aware of the trip as support is raised, as the group prays for the trip
and as the participants report back at various occasions in the following year.
It is true to say that the recent increased interest in cross-cultural service
in the EU has been fuelled by these trips. Our hope is that the effect will be
felt for years to come.
O3T: The Trip
Each year a small group of EUers spend time serving Christ in another culture over the Christmas break. The type of work involved varies according to the destination and appropriateness. In the past EU teams have worked alongside groups in China and others such as CMS.
The past trips:
If you would like to prayerfully support the current team, receive up-to-date reports on their preparations and actual trip over summer, or for further information regarding the trip, contact the senior student or the o3 trip committee:
O3T: The Trip
The 2008/2009 Object Three Trip is planned for South Africa, working with churches in Johannesburg. Stay tuned for further details, as they are announced. As always, use the above email address for more information.
