The comprehensive HGSE experience is about opportunities beyond the classroom. For some, it’s important to find people who share their faith. We asked several students to share their experiences with different organizations. Sydney Bayer is in HGSE’s Human Development and Psychology master’s program.
Tell us about your organization
HGSE Christian Fellowship (HGSECF) seeks to create a community of believers and seekers alike who long to know Jesus better. We do this through our weekly gatherings on Fridays at 5:00 pm where we have worship by our student-led worship team, Bible study, and discussion. Our weekly gatherings are always open to all. HGSECF has been at HGSE for several years with Intervarsity (our parent organization) existing on Harvard’s campus much longer than us. Each month, we gather with the Harvard Graduate School Christian Fellowship (HGSCF) Harvard-yard for worship and a speaker.
What sort of events and programming does your group have?
On November 15th, we hosted “Thank-a-Prof” in Gutman lobby with apple cider and donuts, inviting students to join us in writing thank you letters to Harvard faculty and staff. Because of HGSE students’ generosity, we distributed about 200 letters to various instructors and facility workers! That evening, Professor Jimmy Kim came to HGSECF’s weekly gathering to share his experience as a Christian Professor at HGSE. He shared his incredible wisdom and stories of faith that encouraged every student who came. On November 22nd, we went to the Hillsong Worship, Elevation Worship, and Casting Crowns concert for a night of worship and community building. In the Spring, we hope to host more of the Christian faculty at HGSE as well as more outreach events. These various events provided a different time and experience for more students to engage in HGSECF.
Why did you join this group?
I joined the HGSECF because I am deeply in love with Jesus, and I wanted a community that wanted to fall more in love with Jesus with me. HGSECF has been just that as it is filled with people who have known Jesus for much of their lives and people who are initially exploring their faith journey. This community has fostered my sense of purpose at HGSE and has provided incredible friendships during graduate schools. I highly recommend every HGSE student to come to the fellowship at least once to experience the wonderful community we have.
More information:
If students want to get involved, you can find more information on the HGSE Christian Fellowship Facebook page or you can email Sydney: sydneybayer@gse.harvard.edu.
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