5 Conversations Shaping My 2011

It’s hard to believe that another semester is nearing completion… and with it, the year 2010.

There a have been a number of conversations, or themes, that have shaped my thinking, writing and ministry this year… but these 5 conversations are ones that will likely shape my 2011.

So in no particular order, here are the 5 conversations — along with some posts from this past year — that might hopefully serve as a catalyst for you and your own thinking as it pertains to the upcoming year.

I hope you enjoy — and find time to comment — as I appreciate conversation partners here!

Emerging Adulthood — You likely know what this is, but for those who might not, emerging adulthood is a new season of life that has cropped up between the seasons of adolescence and adulthood. An age group ranging from 18, to as high as 32, this season is simply defined by an embracing of newfound adult freedoms while neglecting the accompanying adult responsibilities. This has HUGE implications for how we do ministry with college students. A few posts from this past year that have started my thinking in this area are: Waiting to Grow Up, Waiting to Grow Up – Part II and The “R” Word.
Sex, Sexuality & Faith — There are SO many issues tied into this conversation. One of the biggest for me right now is the needed dialog with GLBT Christians, GLBTs and Christians. Another would have to do with all of the non-committal hooking-up that our students are engaged in (and coming to campus with a lot of experience in already). Yet another will be destructive struggle so many college students have with pornography and other sexually addictive behaviors. Consider: How SEXy is Your College Ministry?, GLBTs, Christians & the College Campus and Exposing Elephants.
Transitions — The college years have always been incredibly formative years… in the midst of being very transitional years as well. Better understanding how we can welcome students in, help shape them during their more “grounded” sophomore and junior years, before then helping them to prepare to leave our campuses seems to be increasingly challenging… and important. Consider these posts: Free-Falling [Like Wile E.] , The Well-Curve Trend and The Senior Year Transition (a great guest post by Erica Young Reitz).
Stress & Other Mental Health Issues — Our students are dealing with a lot. Seemingly more than previous generations. There are more students struggling, on medication, and searching for ways out of their pain and strife. We need to find ways to help them. More Than the Grade On Your Paper, College Stress: What College Ministers Should Know About Student Depression (a great guest post by Derek Melleby). A La Carte Christianity.
Faith for the 21st Century — As times change we must be creative in our approach to ministry with students. Consider: Revisiting the Great Commission on Campus (another great guest post, by Mark Lydecker), The Future of College Ministry is “Down and Out” (great guest post by Steve Lutz) and Room For Doubt(ers).