Ministering in multiple cultures allows for variety in how Campus Outreach staff apply evangelism principles. One consistency has surfaced: pancakes are universally loved, and meals are always a great way to meet students.

In Manila, the semester kicked off with a Pancake Night. It was so popular they decided to do it again the next week, and 69 new students attended the two events combined. That’s a LOT of pancakes! After having no one on campus for two years, the team was ecstatic about the turnout. Even more exciting is that ten of those students are now involved in evangelistic Bible studies!

The semester in New Zealand began with a smaller crowd but with the same cuisine. In Dunedin, they serve pancakes every Thursday and find it an excellent opportunity for building relationships. One night Madi Carlin, CO LEAD staff, met Amber and started the usual exchange of names and areas of study. Madi told Amber that she works for a Christian group on campus, and she asked Amber if she had personal faith. Amber responded that she didn’t but had been interested in Christianity!

Madi was able to share the gospel and her personal story of faith. When she followed up later that week, Amber said she wanted to decide to follow Jesus but wasn’t sure how to do that; of course, Madi explained! Amber has not yet committed but has returned for more pancakes and joined Madi’s Bible study about the basics of following Jesus. Pray that Amber will make this decision soon.

Do you know someone who would be encouraged by this story? You can direct them to the blog or click here to print a copy of the story to share!

Click here if you would like to watch a short video clip and experience Thursday Night Pancakes for yourself!