1602 N Duquesne - Joplin, MO 64801 - davidweavermssu@gmail.com
Mission Statement
Koinonia exists to connect Missouri Southern students to Jesus and equip them to serve.
Our History
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Koinonia Christian Campus Ministry
Koinonia (the Greek word for fellowship) began in the fall of 1967 when Willard Black, along with the former Atlas Church and Four State Men’s Association, desired to reach the campus of the newly located Missouri Southern State College. Koinonia began under the eldership of College Heights Christian Church and their minister BA Austin. In the late 70’s College Heights led in establishing a separate board of directors consisting of 12 elders from local Christian Churches to involve more individuals in the ministry. Since the 70’s, Koinonia has been an independent outreach of area Christian Churches to the students at MSSU Over the years Koinonia has reached thousands of students at MSSU, and maintained a Christian presence on the campus. Many current members and leaders in area churches became acquainted with leadership roles while in Koinonia. Some even met their spouse there. Some say Koinonia may be one of the best kept secrets of our area churches. We hope to share the secret with you this next year as we partner together to make a difference at MSSU. This year our Thursday main meetings are averaging around 55 and we have many home Bible studies going. Over 150 have attended one or more of our events. Over the past 5 years we have had 6 baptisms within the group, around another 20 where students were baptized at their home church and numerous re-dedications and commitments. Around 10 couples who were part of Koinonia over the past 15 years are now serving on a foreign mission field. Each year we celebrate 4-5 engagements and marriages as Koinonia is a great place to meet one’s future spouse. In 2016 Koinonia purchased 4 acres ½ mile north of MSSU. The next year we build 2 large houses for students and since then have added 3 more, for a total of 5 houses, all spots currently filled. In October 2020, Koinonia acquired the former College View Baptist Church at 1602 N Duquesne along with 4 more acres. Today Koinonia has a robust presence at MSSU and the facilities to continue ministry for many years to come. Campus ministry is vital to keeping young adults who grew up in the church active. Studies show that 75% of students who have grown up in our churches fall away from the Lord during their college years if they do not get connected in a ministry or church during their college years. Studies show that students who remain active in church ministry during their college years most likely will stay involved throughout the rest of their life. Your financial support and prayers have been so valuable in keeping Koinonia one of the most active and visible student organizations at MSSU, and in sharing the gospel and God’s love with the students there. Thank you for loving Southern students! |
