Would you like more Christmas or less?

Some countries religiously celebrate it, some have ruthlessly monetized it, and others happily ignore it. In fact, the question may not be easy to answer because the word “Christmas” has become so broadly used, evoking various associations.

Would you want Christmas music and lights and trees and food everywhere all the time? Probably not.

But at this time of year, as we variously celebrate “Christmas”, one element of the Christmas story is surely worth wanting everywhere all the time: the sharing of good news.

In Luke’s Gospel we’re told that the angel of the Lord proclaims good news of a Saviour’s birth to the shepherds (2:10-12). The shepherds verify the event and go and “spread the word” (2:17). Then, in the temple courts, the “righteous and devout” Simeon announces in his public prayer “a light for revelation to the Gentiles” (2:29-32), and the prophet Anna explains more to those gathered (2:38).

Similarly, over the last year – in all kinds of places and in various ways – students in IFES movements have been proclaiming, announcing, explaining, and spreading the word. In this Conexión blog, we’ll tell you how.

As you read, take heart that Christ’s coming has been spoken of “everywhere all the time” (below are just a few examples). May these snapshots of evangelism inspire you and your spiritual community to keep spreading the word in 2025.

How can you reach a whole campus?

Each year, students in various IFES movements organise high-profile, week-long series of events and talks at their universities.

In the last week of June, GHAFES Ghana partnered with several other local ministries and IFES Europe for “a focused, intentional, creative, and intensive period of public evangelism” at the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa.

Some days later, when the team followed up with Michael, he shared his good news: “I have decided to follow Jesus”.

How can you tell the good news story in a culturally engaging way?

Earlier this year, we shared how IFES InterAction staff Silas Walter created an Easter Escape Room:

“Five students are locked in a kitchen. To get out, they must solve a riddle. They can see remnants of a dinner party – the table is cluttered with half-drunk glasses of wine and leftovers of bread. But who were the guests? What happened? And why has no-one returned to clear up?” (read more)

How can you create a space for unhurried consideration of the gospel?

Weekends away or week-long camps are a key opportunity for ministry in many IFES movements – not only for believers but also for seeking students. It provides a place for them to experience Christ’s community and his call.

In August, Crossroads (Armenia) took 50+ high school, college, and university students away to the beautiful setting of Dilijan for four days of team games, worship, Bible studies, small groups, and prayer.

Both students are now avidly attending weekly Crossroads Bible studies.

How can you grab people’s attention?

Showing how the gospel addresses real, contemporary issues is essential. At the start of their academic year, an InterVarsity group in Fresno created an open-air stand all about labels.

How can you introduce a new generation to the good news?

In the Caribbean, many IFES national movements include ministry to high school students. It’s a crucial point at which to reach the younger generation before they face the pressures of their university years.

How can you offer the Word with tangible impact?

In June, a team of nine students and three staff from FCS Mongolia took a two-week trip to Tsagaan Nuur sum in the country’s most northern province.

How can you spread the digital word?

How can you meet people where they are?

At the start of the year, GBUCI groups in Côte d’Ivoire visited various locations where Africa’s Cup of Nations (AFCON) matches were being played.

The GBUCI students engaged with visiting football fans by offering AFCON-coloured make-up and free mouth-watering snacks. They joined the celebrations and shared about the greatest victory of all: Christ’s sacrifice for sin on the cross.

How can you tell the whole story in 90 minutes?

The Mark Drama uses theatre-in-the-round to create a joyful yet hard-hitting performance of the gospel. By the end of 90 minutes, the audience has seen every incident and heard almost every word of Jesus as recorded by Mark.

All you need is 15 willing volunteers who learn the content over 6 weeks.

Over the last 10 years, various IFES movements have effectively used this tool. This year, it’s been hosted by BCSU in Bulgaria, ABU Ribeirão Preto at the University of São Paulo’s medical school, and Swansea CU (UCCF Great Britain), where “vibrant performances” were shared with over 100 students.

Over the last year, the Word has been spread around the world – proclaimed, announced, explained, performed, posted, and embodied. It’s been presented in different ways in different contexts, amid different opportunities and different needs. But the gospel has remained the same: 

That’s a life-giving word that’s worth spreading everywhere, all the time. You can never have too much Christmas!