What does it take to make a real impact in a global faith community? Cooper Pitts, a sophomore majoring in English and global studies with a concentration in film studies, is discovering the answer firsthand through a transformative internship in London.
This semester, Pitts is living and studying abroad at the Daniel House, Samford University’s five-story home located in central London, and interning with Renaissance Movement, a parachurch organization associated with Saint Church. Renaissance’s mission is to empower the church to create spaces that foster creativity within communities, primarily through conferences and events. Pitts has been instrumental in helping organize for the Renaissance Conference, held Nov. 15-16 in London.
“My role has been mainly helping people prepare for the conference, during which I will manage different pop-up events and activities happening outside the main session and talks,” he said.
This hands-on experience has given Pitts valuable insights into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into successful ministry events, reinforcing his passion for combining faith and creativity. His typical workday in London is far from predictable with tasks ranging from organizational work and meetings to creating presentations.
“To be able to be in the room where the conference is being planned, to contribute to the conversation and to see something bigger than me go from concept to reality has felt extremely rewarding and exciting,” he said.
This internship has also broadened Pitts’ understanding of ministry in a cross-cultural context. Working in London has exposed him to an ecumenical approach to ministry, which he finds less divided by denominational lines than in some parts of the United States. The experience has highlighted the importance of mundane work in ministry, teaching him that meaningful outcomes require patience and dedication.
“Good things don’t happen overnight,” he said. “God can be just as present in the mundane work of bringing something beautiful into the world as He is in that work’s realization. God isn’t just present when a statue is on display but is present with and through the sculptor during the long, tiring days and nights of hard work.”
Beyond professional growth, Pitts’ time abroad has allowed him to connect with London’s diverse community. He’s formed friendships at a film library in Shoreditch, played cajón at events with Saint Church and volunteered for Lighthouse, an organization under Saint Church that provides meals and support for disadvantaged people in the community.
“The time I’ve spent abroad has significantly enriched my personal and spiritual growth,” he said. “Being here is not my first time abroad but generally, being out of my typical environment forces me to take ownership of my strengths, my flaws and my faith in ways I’m not forced to in Alabama.”
These experiences have helped him see London from a more personal perspective. Reflecting on his experience so far, his biggest takeaway is newfound confidence.
“I’ve learned that I am capable of handling myself,” he said. “The guardrails we have on campus are removed in some sense in London and I’ve been fine. I trust myself to figure things out when I need to.”
This has allowed Pitts to embrace the full experience of living abroad, where the vibrant energy of London stands out as a key highlight. Samford’s semester program allows students to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic culture, fostering deeper connections with locals and exploring areas that might otherwise be overlooked during a shorter visit.
“Spending time in unfamiliar contexts has the ability to deepen your understanding of who God is, challenge and stretch your perceptions of how He works and widen your view of what ministry can look like,” he said.
For other ministry students unsure about studying abroad, he has a clear message: go for it. Stepping into a new context can deepen one’s understanding of God and expand perceptions of ministry.
“The adventure of living abroad, the close friendships you make with your housemates, the exposure you get to other cultures and the valuable work experience are all well worth any sacrifice you may have to make to come,” Pitts said.
For students ready to expand their horizons and explore their faith in a global context, schedule an appointment with a Samford Global adviser or submit an application today.
