Discipleship conference challenges students to grow in their faith

Students at California Baptist University serve at the Fred Jordan Mission in Los Angeles, over spring break, as part of the Challenge Discipleship Conference.

Riverside, Calif. (March 27, 2018) – Scores of students from California Baptist University took spring break as an opportunity to develop their faith during the Challenge Discipleship Conference.

The Discipleship Ministries in the Office of Spiritual Life at CBU offered students a new format this year. Instead of a five-day retreat as in previous years, the office offered a two-day teaching portion. Then students had the option of signing up for a three-day opportunity to serve in San Diego or Los Angeles. Additionally, students had the option to go on a spiritual retreat.

Brian Zunigha, director of Discipleship Ministries at CBU, said the change provided students more flexibility in their spring break schedule. Additionally, it gave students an opportunity to apply some of the things they heard in the conference’s first portion in a tangible way.

“We’re really excited about immersing students into one of three tracks and seeing them grow,” Zunigha said. “We hope the tracks teach students some practical skills but also encourage them to continue serving, sharing their faith, reading and reflecting on scripture long after the week is over.”

In San Diego, the students conducted ministry outreach on college campuses and in the community. In Los Angeles, they worked with Fred Jordan Missions. The retreat was held at Point Mugu State Park and focused on developing a more intimate relationship with God. Ninety students participated in the first part of the conference, and 53 chose to participate in one of the additional tracks.

Kynce Lytle, a junior double majoring in psychology and sociology, served at the Fred Jordan Mission. Her group helped conduct chapel services, serve meals and hand out clothes.

“It was an opportunity to be hands-on and learn how to serve the homeless,” Lytle said. “I was able to see a different side of the city I grew up in, through the eyes of the homeless we were able to get to know.

“I also learned how present Jesus is in an area that has such a lack of hope.”