Come – Be an Overcomer
posted by Navigators on June 24th, 2025 in Discipleship | Evangelism | Generations
A reflection on the 2025 Monash International Student Ministry Conference by Arnetta Wijaya, Melbourne Labouring Community
Over the mid-semester break, the Monash Navigators International Student Ministry (ISM) held our annual conference, a time filled with laughter, reflection, growth and, above all, a deeper encounter with Jesus. With students from all walks of life and backgrounds, the conference provided a meaningful space to explore faith, build lasting friendships, and be equipped in our journey of discipleship.
Our theme this year was COME – a heartfelt invitation to come to Jesus, not just once, but daily. Clint Trebesh, our main speaker, shared powerfully that, while God may not always remove our challenges, He equips us to become more like Jesus so we can overcome them with Him. This truth struck a chord with many of us. In particular, Patrick reflected on how easy it is to slip into a mundane routine, looking to the world for fulfilment that never truly satisfies. But at the conference, he was reminded to turn to God each day – to pray, to draw joy from his relationship with Jesus, and to rely on God’s strength instead of his own. In doing so, he found not just endurance, but delight – even in the simple blessings and fun that God so generously provides.
For some, the conference was a catalyst towards renewed hunger for God. Ryan found himself excited to memorise Scripture – so much so that when he got home his mum asked in surprise, “What happened to you at conference?” because he couldn’t stop talking about Jesus to his family! Anne, too, was moved to encourage her mum to memorise Scripture. In a beautiful ripple effect, her mum later sent a video of herself quoting 2 Corinthians 5:17 to Aunty Sharon on WhatsApp – proof that God’s Word doesn’t just stay at conference, it flows home too!
Others shared stories of how God orchestrated unexpected connections, especially as the gathering provided opportunity for students to connect with other Nav guest members. Geoffrey, a student, had a deep conversation with Tony and was amazed to discover they had both come from the same church in Shan Dong, China – a rare connection considering the scarcity of Christian communities there. It was a reminder of how God weaves our stories together in ways we don’t anticipate.
Memorable moments like raft building, horse riding, and a late-night campfire created space for laughter, teamwork and vulnerability among students. At night, testimonies were shared – raw, honest and full of hope. For Siwen, it was during this conference that she heard the gospel clearly from Aunty Judy and made the life-changing decision to follow Christ, praying to receive Him personally. Praise God! Even for those who came without a Christian background, God was at work. Chris, for example, originally came to the conference just for the fun and adventure – but it unexpectedly opened a door for him to explore the Christian faith more deeply. Since then, he’s been attending Bible studies every week this semester and diving into the gospel through IBS. We’re so encouraged by his journey and how God gently draws people to Himself in ways we never expect!
The conference was also a reminder of the power of spiritual legacy. Jessie, who was once the first female student that Aunty Sharon discipled at Melbourne, returned to conference and was moved to see the fruits of those early seeds. What began as just the two of them walking around campus on Orientation Day, reaching out to new students, has now grown into a vibrant community of people eager to learn more about Jesus. Years ago, someone generously sponsored Jessie to attend conference. Now, as a working professional, she’s paying it forward – sponsoring other students so they, too, can encounter God in the same way. That’s the beauty of discipleship: it doesn’t end – it multiplies!
That’s the beauty of discipleship: it doesn’t end – it multiplies!
We were especially grateful for those who made sacrifices to serve. Jay Ee, previously a student at Monash ISM, now a full-time doctor, flew all the way in from Mildura to not only attend the conference but also lead a workshop. His dedication and presence were a powerful testimony that discipleship doesn’t end at university, but carries on. Even amidst the demands of a busy career, Jay Ee continues to live out his faith and invest in others – showing us what it means to put God’s Kingdom first, wherever we are.
As the conference drew to a close, one thing was clear: God is at work among international students at Monash. He is drawing hearts to Himself, building resilience, cultivating spiritual disciplines, and creating a community that reflects Jesus more and more. Whether it was through Scripture memory, heartfelt testimonies, shared prayers or joyful laughter during games, we caught glimpses of the Kingdom. We left not only inspired to keep walking with God but also strengthened by the fellowship we now share more deeply with one another.