When Benj Prada thinks about the people who have encouraged him in ministry, many of them are people he has never met.
As Campus Director of Every Nation Campus Meycauayan in the Philippines, Benj spends his days reaching university students with the gospel, discipling young believers, and developing the next generation of Christian leaders. At the same time, he's pursuing a Master's in Pastoral Counseling at Asian Theological Seminary while serving full-time in ministry.
Thanks to scholarship assistance, Benj has been able to continue his theological education without the financial burden that often comes with graduate studies. But for him, the scholarship represents more than financial support.
"It's a tangible reminder of God's provision and the generosity of people who believe in investing in leaders for the next generation."
That encouragement has strengthened Benj's ministry in practical ways. His studies have deepened his understanding of Scripture, strengthened his leadership, and equipped him to better care for students navigating broken families, identity struggles, anxiety, and questions of purpose.
Just as importantly, the encouragement he has received is something he intentionally passes on.
Benj regularly mentors student leaders and volunteers, sharing what he's learning through discipleship, leadership development, and one-on-one coaching. His goal is not simply to become a better leader himself, but to equip others to faithfully lead in their own churches and communities—even if they never have the opportunity to attend seminary.
That investment is already bearing fruit.
One student Benj met through a school leadership program had developed a reputation for getting into fights and was close to being suspended. Through consistent discipleship, the student came to know Christ and experienced a remarkable transformation. Today, he's actively involved in the ministry and helping reach other students with the gospel.
Another young woman who struggled with insecurity and the pressure to prove herself found lasting confidence in her identity in Christ. She now leads a small group of her own, mentoring younger students and sharing the same hope that first transformed her life.
These stories are a reminder that encouragement within the body of Christ is rarely one-directional. Believers around the world strengthen one another in ways they may never fully see. A scholarship enables a pastor to study. That pastor invests in young leaders. Those leaders go on to disciple others in their schools, churches, and communities.
Across cultures and continents, God continues to use His people to build up His Church—one act of encouragement at a time.
