Why I Am Here: Bridging Classroom, Church, and Community
Why I Am Here
I am from Nigeria, and my journey here has taken me across many places in Africa where I have studied, taught, and done research. My background is in library science, communication, information management, and media studies, and by God’s grace, I was able to pursue this to the highest level, completing a PhD. Teaching at the university and doing research has been a great privilege, but for me, the classroom has never been separate from the church. While I was mentoring students academically, I was also teaching Bible study and walking with young people in their spiritual growth. Both sides have always gone hand in hand.
When my family and I relocated to the Netherlands, I felt that God was opening a new chapter. That move gave me a fresh perspective and rekindled my desire to serve more intentionally in ministry—through media, worship, and youth engagement. A very important turning point for me was through Wonder of Worship, a Columbia Theological Seminary initiative. I attended training on Children’s Play in November 2024, and that experience confirmed what I had long been sensing: my journey is not just about academics but about ministry—ministry that bridges theology, worship, ICT and the real-life struggles and questions of today’s younger generation.
With that inspiration, I applied to Columbia’s program in Practical Theology, and in December 2024, I received the joyful news of my admission. For me, this was not just an academic opportunity—it was a signpost of God’s direction. It was a privilege of being welcomed personally by the President into the Columbia Theological Seminary community, joining the Class of 2025. It was inspiring to sit among brilliant souls—new students who have come from across the United States, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Congo, Rwanda, India, and other parts of the world. This global fellowship is not only a reminder of God’s diverse calling but also a powerful affirmation that the journey of faith and learning is richer when shared in community.
CTS 2025 set with the President, Rev Dr Victor Aloyo Source: CTSeminary Facebook
Why am I here? Because I believe God is calling me to respond to a very urgent challenge: young people, in Nigeria, across Africa, and even more in Europe, are drifting away from the church. Many feel disconnected, finding more meaning in social media, technology, and games—even inside worship spaces. I don’t believe the church should reject these realities. Instead, we must find ways to engage them. I believe technology can be used as a tool of empowerment, to keep young people connected, and even to bring them back to the life of the church.
Through my studies here at Columbia, I want to gain the grounding, the tools, and the insights that will help me bridge the classroom, the church, and the wider community. My story is still unfolding, but I trust that this journey will shape me even more deeply—as a scholar, as a minister, and as a servant of God’s mission.
Ayodele John Alonge
Friday 30th August, 2025, 4:00 (EST)
BLC, Decatur Gorgia
