Hannibal, MO – Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) continued its collaboration with the International Baptist Convention (IBC) through two summer ministry events: Euroventure and New Hive. These events were organized by Sabrina Brookshire, Chair of the Department of Theatre. HLGU has had ties to IBC since the early 90’s. Originating in Germany, their vision is to facilitate a movement of global-minded churches that are producing healthy disciples, leaders, and congregations.
Euroventure is an annual camp for teens aged 12-18. This year the camp relocated to Lenk, Switzerland to accommodate Ukrainian refugees. As the Stateside Youth Coordinator for Euroventure, Brookshire brings HLGU college students to help equip camp with the leadership it needs. The camp attracts a diverse demographic, with 40% of teens from the U.S., 40% European natives, and 20% from other parts of the world. Over two decades, HLGU has been a part of Euroventure and has consequently fostered connections with participating churches. This now enables pre- and post-camp projects for students in cities like Paris, Frankfurt, Berlin, and Rome.
HLGU recently joined forces with a new IBC ministry, New Hive, an acronym reflecting its vision: Nurturing, Empowering, Worshiping, Hospitality, Incarnational, Visionary, and Experimental. Its goal is to meet the community where they are at. Currently, this is best done in coffee shops to naturally form connections. HLGU hosted a drama workshop over the summer. “Because of this platform of engagement and getting people up and moving and dramatic people were opening up on the first day. It really connected them with the community. At the end of every night, we had dinner together that allowed for deeper fellowship and definitely built connections with community members that they otherwise wouldn’t have met.” Says Brookshire.
Looking ahead to Summer 2024, HLGU is gearing up for another mission trip with New Hive and Euroventure. Students interested in participating can contact Sabrina Brookshire at sabrina.brookshire@hlg.edu.