On Sept.  21-24, Harding will host the Global Missions Experience (GME) at Camp Tahkodah, bringing students together from more than 14 universities and campus ministries. Students will meet and learn from missionaries from all over the world during a long weekend of missionary education and cross-cultural simulation workshops.

The theme this year is ‘Unashamed: Sharing Faith in the Face of Persecution.’  The objective in using this theme is to challenge participants to humbly and confidently share faith without fear in the face of rejection or persecution.

Dr. Shawn Daggett, director of the Center for World Missions, is the faculty director of GME. Daggett said this year’s program will include learning centers,  joyful worship, keynote sessions, a world banquet simulation and a world market simulation. Students will also have the opportunity to stay in the global village housing, a part of the camp that simulates living in various countries.

“Although we are unqualified, we are unashamed because our faith is in God’s spirit, power and work,” Daggett said.

Senior Vilde Nordseth said GME has been a memorable part of her time at Harding.

“I am so thankful for another opportunity to attend the GME before I graduate,” Nordseth said. “From the minute it ended in 2015, I wanted to go back. I felt so encouraged to move, inspire and grow through mission work that it is by far one of my best memories here at Harding.”

GME worship leader, senior Zachary Cowdery, said that his anticipation for the event grows daily as he awaits the opportunity to gather with over a thousand people from around the world who desire to devote their lives to God’s mission.

“It’s so encouraging to hear about the work that God is doing around the globe, especially when he might seem silent in a certain area,” Cowdery said.  “Gathering with other Christians and hearing their stories reminds me that God is not only still at work, but that he is still on his throne.”

GME aims for each student to leave with three new sets of skills to be used to share faith and help others.

“We want students to have a clearer idea of how their area of study partners with the mission of God,” Daggett said. “A heart for the hurting of the world by experiencing realities similar to the teaming masses and a firm commitment to enter God’s mission in some way.”

Registration for GME is open until the event begins, and costs $25 for Harding students and $50 for non-Harding students. This event includes meals, lodging, a T-shirt, and an opportunity to learn more about the world of missions.