Aby Bencent: “Come As You Are” (Grad Sunday)

When I started attending Pres House in the Fall 2025 semester, I had just one simple thought in mind – I wanted to try something different. I honestly had no idea how much this place would come to mean to me. Looking back today, I can truly say that Pres House has been a source of immense peace, friendship, and a genuine sense of belonging for me.

Being an international student from India, staying so far away from home is never easy. While there are many happy moments, there are also those quiet times when you feel the distance very deeply. In a new country, even the smallest things can feel a bit unfamiliar initially. In such a phase of my life, Pres House became a very comforting space. It helped me grow in my faith and find a proper community. Above all, it gave me the feeling that I am not alone here.

One thing I will always cherish is the time after Sunday evening prayer, when everyone sits together for a meal. It might sound like a simple thing, but for me, it was deeply meaningful. Sharing food with others creates a very special bond; it brings so much warmth, conversation, and laughter. Those moments reminded me that faith is not just about praying inside a room, but about fellowship, kindness, and simply being there for one another. Every Sunday, the food, the people, and the homely atmosphere gave me something to look forward to. It became a lovely routine that brought peace to my entire week.

I am grateful to all the staff and the church members who put in the effort to cook for us every Sunday. From the outside, it might look like an ordinary task, but it made a world of difference in my life. It was love in action. Often, people don’t realize how much a warm meal and a welcoming space can mean to someone staying far from home, but I truly felt it. I am so thankful for that.

During my time at Pres House, I feel I have changed in a very quiet but significant way. I have become much calmer and more hopeful. Student life can be full of uncertainties. There are always questions about the future and what comes next. As I prepare for my graduation this May, I still don’t have all the answers. But I am leaving with much more trust in God and a lot of peace in my heart.

If I could share one bit of encouragement for others, it would be this: do meet new people and don’t be afraid to step into the community. Pres House is open and welcoming to everyone. Sometimes we feel we need to have everything “sorted out” before we show up, but that is not the case. Just come as you are. Be open, have a chat, and sit down for a meal. Trust God during the uncertain times. He truly meets you in simple places and through simple people in ways you may never expect.

For me, Pres House became one of those special places. And for that, I will always be truly grateful.

Aby Bencent (he/him) graduates in May 2026 with a Master’s in Business Administration.