Arigaa - How Sweet It Is

Arigaa! It is good ...

We call ourselves “Arigaa.”  Translated, this Inupiaq word means, “sweet,” or “so good.”  We call ourselves Arigaa because fellowship with God, with His Word, and with His people is sweet.  Arigaa is a new ministry aimed towards rural Alaskan college-age folks, and their friends.  Our big push is a Bible Study once a week, with dinner provided.  At these dinners, we have had things such as moose, salmon, muktak (whale blubber), and hand picked salmonberries.  Our goal is to help students who are far away from home feel safe, comfortable, and like family here in the big city of Anchorage.  Of course at the same time we hope to encourage them to deepen their walks with God and to get involved in the local church.  In addition to Bible Studies, we have Friday Fun Nights every week, which could be anything from a game night, to a bonfire, sushi, or even making meals for the homeless.

So, if you’re like me, you’re thinking, “That’s a great idea…but how does it all work out?”  Well, it’s worked out really well so far!  For our big kick off, we had a BBQ at the church and 22 people showed up!  For Bible Studies, last week we had 17 people for the 2nd time!  Not that it’s all fun and games.  Getting college-age students all together at once can be a real struggle sometimes.  Also, several of the students have come to one or more of the leaders and asked for prayer about serious temptations in their lives.  From alcohol, to family, to relationship struggles, there is a lot of hurt in some of these students’ lives.  As we continue throughout the year, we always welcome prayer for the ministry.  We know that God’s hand is upon this group.

We truly hope that at the end of the year, students will look back at their growth in Christ and say, “Arigaa!”

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