The Jenkins Center for the Christian Understanding of Islam launched its first monthly evangelism outing of the semester on August 30, drawing nearly 100 students from Southern Seminary and Boyce College to share the gospel of Jesus Christ across Louisville.
This marks the largest turnout since the center began hosting monthly evangelism events in spring 2024. What started with small groups of 10–12 students has grown steadily, with last semester averaging 30 participants. The August gathering of close to 100 demonstrated an unprecedented surge of interest, with students eager to engage in gospel proclamation.
“This evangelism event was vital in equipping both students and local churches to proclaim the gospel,” said Grace Kim, administrator at the Jenkins Center. “Our vision is to help believers grow in awareness of the Muslim world in all its diversity and to strengthen their confidence in sharing the good news of Jesus.”
One of the highlights of the outing was the large number of new participants, including many Boyce College undergraduates, who made up nearly 60% of the group. For several seminary students, this was their first time presenting the gospel to strangers.
Though some admitted feeling nervous, many left encouraged and grateful for the opportunity. “They came wanting to learn how to share the gospel with Muslims,” Kim said. “Many shared the full gospel for the first time and left with a renewed passion to continue proclaiming Christ.”
The Jenkins Center exists to bring biblical clarity to the challenges of Islam by educating, training, and preparing Christians for faithful service among Muslim peoples. Its mission is twofold: to establish a scholarly Christian understanding of Islam and to equip pastors, missionaries, and students to proclaim Christ boldly and respectfully.
Ayman S. Ibrahim, professor at Southern Seminary and director of the Jenkins Center described evangelism as the heartbeat of the center.
“The Great Commission of our Lord Jesus Christ fuels everything we do at the Jenkins Center,” Ibrahim said. “The call to proclaim his name, summon sinners to repentance, and spread his glory is the heartbeat of our mission. This event reflects our regular practice: going into the streets of our city to joyfully declare the gospel, unashamedly urging everyone to consider the only door to salvation—Jesus Christ, our wonderful Savior.”
Looking Ahead
The Jenkins Center plans to continue offering a wide range of resources to equip students and churches for gospel ministry. These include books, brochures, training materials, and events such as worship and prayer nights focused on missions. Monthly evangelism outings will also continue, offering students practical opportunities to grow in confidence and boldness.
“We invite anyone interested to visit the Jenkins Center, join our mailing list, and take part in the resources and events we provide,” the Jenkins Center staff said. “Our goal is to serve the Southern Seminary and Boyce community as we labor together to make Christ known among all nations.”