Monday, May 2, 2016

GBU Paris Staff 2015-2016



The staff in Paris is quite diverse. Let me take a moment to introduce you to them.
[Starting on the top left]
Nicolas: He is from Paris and grew up in Lyon. He studied finance partly in Paris and partly in Nantes. I found out we went to the same church in Nantes at different times. He worked in finances (serving God at work) for 5 years before quitting his job to go studying theology, which has been his desire for 17 years. He planned to study for a year but stayed for three. Then he worked as an intern in Eglise Protestante Evangelique de Ternes while trying to discern a call to work for the GBU. His quirky personality and intimidating intelligence greatly appreciated, there's not much he doesn't know about. We are thankful he gladly accepted his calling to work for the GBU!

Marion: She is a real Parisian. This is her 7th year working for the GBU. She was actively involved as a student and even did her internship with the GBU. She taught history for 5 years before leaving her job to become a GBU staff. She is a gifted teacher and passionate about God's word. When Marion speaks people listen because we know that what she has to say is important and could just bring us closer to God.

Charles: He is finishing his last year a Vaut sur Seine, a faculty for theology. He is finishing he thesis. This year he is interning with the GBU. He has a gentle way of telling truth and enjoys sharing his wealth of wisdom with all those who will hear. His smile and meekness makes him very approachable. He is passionate for God and wants everyone to hear the Gospel.

Josh: He is a whimsical, light-hearted Australian who has used humor to work his way into the hearts of many. He studied theology in the Australia and afterwards worked in a church with the youth, and as a chaplain. He and his wife felt called to move to France and went not knowing what was in store for them. Soon Josh will finish his french studies and start working full time for the GBU and even with high school students as well.

Susan: She's a team member of IFES InterAction, which is the program I am in too. We are a team of three (the 3rd member is not in the photo). Susan spent 10 years of her life in France because her parents were missionaries. Susan has a passion for international students and loves organizing events. She loves encouraging young woman to follow Christ and has a gift of hospitality. She knows he French culture well and has been able to help build groups who were lacking experience.

Nia (Me): Well you know about me a bit right. I'm enthusiastic about Jesus and I like getting other excited about the Gospel even if they don't believe. Even when situations look grim, my positivity kicks in in over-drive. After working in theatre as a costume stitch, wardrobe person and costume designer, there isn't no one that I cannot work with. My adaptability and openness has allowed me to integrate myself well and win the hearts of many with my charm.

Laetitia: She just throws herself into her work and finds ways to do things we have never even thought of. She is self-motivated and passionate about discipling women. Originally from Toulouse, Laetitia has known the GBU for years. Yes she's is quite young but she got hooked in while still in high school. She has always felt called to ministry but didn't know where she would find her place. Se fits quite nicely with the GBU and her skills are greatly appreciated.


Nikki: This is her first year working with the GBU. Originally from the Philippines, she studied in Paris and then went home. She has worked in campus ministry at home and always wanted to return to France since the first time she came. This year her integration has gone well. She has used her skills in teaching to share at staff meetings as well as supported many groups in the region. Her involved in the GBU has been quite impressive for her first year.

Rencontre Nationale

Rencontre Nationale April 14-17th
In April, all those who are involved with the GBU came together to a national conference in Lyon. There were about thirty people who came a day earlier to the Journée Bonus (extra day), which based on the theme of the Resurrection of Jesus. I really enjoyed the messages that also inspired and gave us hope that is based of the work of Christ on the cross.

M.Sophie R. Lauricia
During the conference, there were only about 130 people, less than last year. The theme was “Heaven”; our speaker based his two messages on Revelation, using Old and New Testament references to show us what hope we have in the life to come. We had time together to share news of what’s going on in other region. So much happens in Paris compared to other regions. I hate to compare but there are more activities in the big cities. It’s always encouraging to hear what is happening in the small cities, everything happens by God’s grace.

Our team did a stand, which allowed students to learn more about IFES, the international organization that includes GBU France, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship USA and 156 other member countries. It’s always surprising to find out how little the students know about their association on an international level. We made a quiz that turned out to be quite difficult but people had fun even though they didn’t win.

4 Americans out of 130 people (they all speak French)
There was a time to vote in new leaders in the different regions and hear their motivation for why they want to get more involved. We saw the budget for this year and the next year, which seems to be ambitious but possible. We heard news of what’s happening in the Middle East. It’s amazing to hear that God is working despite the harsh condition, extreme Islamic states and war-torn countries. Nothing is impossible for our God!


Yvette, med student in Montpellier
Marie & Cécile
Susan & Sophie preparing the stand
I am always amazed to see student involvement in the GBU; on a national scale it’s even more inspiring. Students could be doing other things with their time, yet they choose to come hear about their Father in heaven and his love for them. Everyone is always so enthusiastic and full of good humor. It’s just another sign that God’s love transforms our lives and sets us apart.