Global Scholars in Prague
Josh became a Fellow with Global Scholars in 2018. Global Scholars equips Christian professors in 71 countries to be salt and light from within the university among students, colleagues, the university and within academic fields. In Prague, there are no campus ministries or other forms of Christ-centered outreach to students and faculty. The strategy of Global Scholars to be a redemptive influence in secular settings at a formational time in a young adult's life from inside the university setting. In the Czech Republic, only 28% say they believe in God and only 8% practice a life of faith; truly it is a post-Christian society. It is an outlier in Europe with 72% of people saying they are atheist, agnostic or "nothing in particular."Being a faithful presence in the university means "taking every thought captive to Christ" (2 Cor. 10:5), and teaching from a generative and abundant mindset- one that assumes people are capable of transformation, that no one is beyond God's love. This presence is also a communal one, trusting that Jesus calls his followers to walk, love and be in fellowship with one another "that all people will know we are his disciples."(John 13:35).
Why is this ministry important?
-
Secular universities tend to be places where redemptive influences are scarce.
-
According to the Barna group research, 70% of US students who grew up in the faith do not consider themselves Christians at the end of their college careers.
-
Though there is a well-documented growth of interest in spirituality among college students worldwide, most universities do not provide a space to explore spiritual questions or worldviews.
-
According to a major longitudinal study by Gallup/Purdue University, “a mentor who encouraged your goals and dreams” was found to be the single most important predictor of success in work and life for college graduates. Having a faculty mentor, in fact, more than doubles a graduate’s chance of thriving in their overall well-being after college.
-
​“What is taught in our classrooms today is believed on our streets tomorrow.” -Global Scholars website
