International Graduate Student Ministry – Gracepoint Berkeley

This past weekend was Baptism Sunday at Gracepoint Berkeley.  Brothers Allen and Eric (not biologically related) were baptized, and Eric gave his testimony (again) during the worship service.  Hearing once again at how God worked in his life, bringing him to Berkeley for 1 year for a masters, and how he learned about sin and his need for the cross in that period of time was really powerful.  Indeed, it validates everything that we are striving for at IGSM: impacting international students with the gospel in the short window of time that they are studying here at America.  We also had a chance to celebrate with them by taking photos, presenting them with gifts–flowers from the sisters and NIV Life Application Study Bibles from the brothers, and giving them a warm hug was a very special time.

Personally, it was very impactful for me because I’ve gotten a front row seat to see God change these two brothers’ lives and hearts in the 1 year they’ve been here.  I remember going on an SF outing with them 1 year ago.  I had no idea then that these two would be taking Course 101: Christian Foundations (you can sign up here!) with me and Jesse.  During C101, I saw them think about their lives more seriously and conclude that the gospel is true–and in the process, they had personal encounters with God.  I was so thankful to see them up there Sunday, and I can testify that God is good.  If you missed Baptism Sunday, be sure to congratulate them when you see them!