Student ministry in the MENA region is particularly challenging. In 15 of the region’s countries, Christians face extreme persecution. But within the context of extreme opposition, the gospel is bearing much fruit: students are turning to Christ; young leaders are being trained up; and graduates are being equipped to live distinctive and godly lives in their workplaces. The courage and faith shown by brothers and sisters in this part of the world is remarkable.

The three-year cycle of IFES regional conferences aims to strengthen and train Christian students, leaders and graduates. Recently, there has been a particular focus on equipping for outreach to those from a Muslim background. The conferences also provide an opportunity for much-needed fellowship and support for Christians who are struggling with isolation and persecution.

In 2018, the MENA Publishing House was launched. The ministry provides context-specific resources in Arabic to enrich students’ understanding of the gospel and help them engage with contemporary issues. It is hoped that this will make a real contribution to the intellectual landscape of the Arab Christian world, both in the university and in the church.