Reaching Beyond Borders
Students at the end of outreach on the University of Calgary Campus at ACFI Canada.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of the new school year, approximately 120 registrants set aside their busy schedules to attend the 2024 Adventist Christian Fellowship Institute (ACFI), graciously hosted by Burman University in Lacombe, Alberta, from October 2-5. Student leaders from across Canada embraced ACF’s theme, “Reach the Campus, Change the World” as they engaged in worship, fellowship and outreach, reigniting their passion for ministry on public campuses.
Conference officials from across Canada bringing greetings to attendees.
ACFI kicked off with a warm welcome at the registration desk, where the Burman team greeted attendees and guided them on a tour of the charming campus. Following a general worship session full of praise and devotion, participants dispersed into various workshops designed to enhance their skills in campus ministry. One workshop,“Handling Tough Questions,” led by Pastors Rob Zama and Sam Sinnanainar, provided practical advice and resources for addressing faith-related inquiries in non-Christian environments.
Group photo of ACFI Canada 2025 attendees at Burman University.
The next morning began with an inspiring morning devotion, after which attendees boarded buses to physically reach the campuses of three local public institutions: Red Deer Polytechnic, the University of Alberta, and the University of Calgary. Daniel Ayoo, president of Mustard Seed, the ACF chapter for Toronto’s downtown campuses, reflected, “We connected with the students, and showed love in a simple way that let them know we’re here and we care. It’s definitely an outreach initiative to bring back to our own campuses!” Undoubtedly, through meaningful interactions, motivational cards, and thoughtful “sunshine bags” filled with snacks and supplies, ACF students shared the warmth of God’s love with the campus communities.
As the week was ending, Friday brought an opportunity for students to see more of Alberta through trips to either West Edmonton Mall or Kraay Family Farm for a corn maze and other fun activities. Other highlights of this afternoon included the chance for each region’s attendees to have lunch with their youth directors, as well as an awesome group photo taken of ACFl participants. After arriving back on campus, attendees were invited to Burman’s Come As You Are (CAYA) vespers session, where music and testimonies were shared to provide a truly blessed way to begin the Sabbath day.
ACFI attendees leading out praise & worship at College Heights SDA Church.
Saturday morning began with one last session of workshops, followed by a lovely worship service at the College Heights Church, where Pastor Rob Zama preached a powerful message on how Jesus can be reflected to others in our lives, without us even saying a word. This service was followed by lunch, as well as a chance for attendees to enjoy a nature hike around campus. Finally, a closing ceremony for ACFI was held at the Red Deer SDA church, where one last farewell and thank you was given to all those involved in making this week’s event possible. The night ended with warm fuzzies, Crumbl cookies, and lots of laughter as ACFI was officially closed out.
Overall, this year’s ACFI was jam-packed with so many great workshops, events and people. A huge thank you to everyone that had put in the effort to make this event truly unforgettable, and we look forward to seeing how ACFI gets even better next year. Hope to see you all there!