“Free waffles!” was the daily cry heard echoing across Bristol outside Woodlands Church a few weeks ago. It turns out that a warm waffle and a warm welcome are a powerful combination. The plan was simple: bless students with free food, start conversations, and invite them to explore faith in Jesus through two daily gospel talks. What happened was beautiful.
Across campus, students were bringing their flatmates, course-mates, and teammates. Hospitality opened the door - and God did the rest.
One student shared how he spotted his mate flyering and thought, “Why not?” He wandered in, tucked into some waffles, and found himself in a conversation about Jesus. I asked him, “Do you have any good reason why you can’t give your life to Jesus right now?” He thought. And then he said, “No, I don’t think I do.”
Throughout the week we had dozens of conversations like that - moments of openness, curiosity, and vulnerability. Students were genuinely moved by the extravagant hospitality on display. When the local church opens its arms to students, the results are incredible.
But perhaps the most exciting part wasn’t just the waffles or the crowds—it was the unity.
This mission was planned by the Bristol CU committee, backed by the churches of Bristol and supported by UCCF, Fusion, GEM, and so many others. We saw different streams, styles, and ministries standing shoulder to shoulder with a common goal: to love students into life with Jesus.
And that unity bore fruit.
Students encountered Jesus.
Churches and missions linked arms.
The city took notice.
God is moving in Bristol.
And we believe this is only the beginning.
Churches: keep opening your doors, your kitchens, and your hearts. Students are hungry for belonging and hungry for God.
Students: invite boldly, love generously, and believe that your simple “yes” can change a life.
Student mission organisations: collaborate, pray together, share resources, and run in unity—there’s more fruit ahead.
Let’s keep reaching students.
Let’s keep partnering in mission.
Let’s keep sowing together.
The harvest is ready. Let’s go.
