By Joe Maschhoff
In November, student ministry leaders from across The Navigators Worldwide Partnership gathered in Livingstone, Zambia, for the first-ever Student Workers Consultation (SWC). This historic event provided an opportunity to reflect on making Christ known among students in every context and culture.
The gathering was as diverse as it was unified. Navigators from every continent shared meals, stories, and ministry challenges, their accents and experiences weaving a rich tapestry of perspectives. Yet, despite the differences in contexts, a shared purpose bound us together: helping students know and follow Jesus.
This Consultation wasn’t just about sharing ideas; it was about seeking God together and considering how The Core can guide student ministry in today’s world.
Rooted in a Faithful Legacy
Our time began by looking back at the roots of Navigator student ministry. Former International President Mike Treneer recounted how discipling students has been central to our identity since the 1940s. His reflections reminded us that our work is part of a much larger story—one that began long before us and will continue long after.
This perspective gave us gratitude and focus. The question isn’t just how to sustain student ministry but how to see it thrive in today’s challenges.
Alignment and Energy
Two themes shaped the SWC: alignment and energy. Alignment means ensuring our student ministries are guided by The Core—biblical truths that form the foundation of our disciplemaking efforts. Energy reflects the need to engage students with passion and purpose, relying on God’s Spirit to bring life to our work.
Mutua Mahiaini, our International President, reminded us that discipling students is not about strategy alone—it is about faithfulness to Christ and responsiveness to the Spirit’s leading.
This balance of alignment and energy is vital. Together, they allow us to serve with clarity, intention, and hope.
Context and Calling
One of the most striking aspects of the SWC was the diversity in ministry contexts. Some leaders serve in regions where Christianity has been established for centuries; others work in areas where faith is fragile or unfamiliar. Despite these differences, the values of The Core provided a shared foundation, adaptable to each culture yet unchanging in their focus on Christ.
Alan Ch’ng reminded us of the urgency of evangelism, calling us to live as Christ’s ambassadors among students who do not yet know Him.
Eddie Broussard’s reflections on spiritual generations reminded us that disciplemaking is about multiplication, not just addition. This perspective encourages us to invest in students who will, in turn, invest in others, ensuring the work’s impact extends far beyond what we can see.
A Renewed Vision
As we look ahead, the need for student ministry is clearer than ever. This work isn’t just about programs or structures—it is about walking alongside young people as they grapple with who Jesus is and what it means to follow Him.
To those who support and pray for this ministry: thank you. Your partnership plays a vital role in equipping leaders, reaching students, and advancing the Gospel. Please continue to join us in praying for God to encourage established leaders, bless their discipleship efforts, and bring new believers to faith in Christ through their faithful laboring.
We left Zambia with a renewed sense of purpose, trusting that God will continue to guide us as we serve students worldwide. May He align our ministries to His purposes, energize us for the work ahead, and use this next generation to advance His Kingdom in powerful ways.
