We've had a fantastic year so far - we've seen remarkable progress across our mission, from stronger team unity to increased student engagement.

These next stories reflect just a snippet of the positive impact we're making together. Your ongoing support—both spiritually and financially—makes all this possible. Thank you!

What I was searching for…

I first heard about Koinonia when Sully sat next to me on my first day at St. Gabriel’s church in North Acton. It was exactly what I was searching for—a Christian community where I could share faith experiences and talk about God's love, something I felt was missing in my life growing up in a secular household and culture in Korea. So, as I was coming to London for studies and career opportunities, finding a Christian community was one of my strongest desires.

In Koinonia, I've discovered valuable friendships with many people who have experience living in London, managing university life, being Christians, and navigating their 20s. They offer me a lot of advice and are very welcoming and supportive, always looking out for each other. Having this support system is really necessary, especially now that I'm living away from home and my parents for the first time.

I've grown in being more open about my prayer life and admitting my spiritual struggles and problems. Usually, I find it shameful to share my sins and struggles with my relationship with God. It's easy to avoid these topics, but as I have participated in Koinonia's prayer meetings and worship nights, I've felt freer to express my thoughts and emotions openly, not just to God but also to my friends. This has helped me develop integrity and transparency as a person and, naturally, strengthen bonds with my friends.

I used to be very reserved when it came to my faith, but I'm learning the importance of sharing my spiritual life with others, especially when we gather to worship together.

I came to London from Bari, Italy, in September to start university. In Italy, Christianity doesn't have a good reputation and people don't see it in a positive light. But back in Bari about 6 or 7 years ago, I found a community that changed my thoughts about Christianity. My mom and I joined through some friends. Having support and things in common with other Christians is super important. It's tough to get by in the city, in the world, without faith. You can feel really lost and alone.

Being part of Koinonia has given me real friendships and the chance to worship together. I absolutely love the worship here. It feels like all our souls are coming together when we pray to the Lord, and it's always an amazing experience. Getting to know others and hearing about their journeys has helped me grow personally. As soon as I arrived to London, I got to go on a weekend away, and even though it was cold, I really enjoyed it. The worship time, the talks, and just being part of a community of Christians—it was all really good for me.