When introducing your students to your ministry, and the campus you serve, what direction do you take?

We’ve been given an incredible opportunity, and responsibility, in the lives of new students who enter our campus community!  What we do with this opportunity says a lot about our ministry, as well as the kind of relationship we want to have with the university.

Do we see ourselves as friends of the institution — ultimately wanting the same the same end result — students prepared and equipped to go out into the world and make a difference; but obviously desiring to equip students to make Christ central to their classroom experience, extra-curricular activities, relationships, etc.

Do we pit ourselves as adversaries of the institution — labeling it ‘the monster’ that is only interested in engaging the mind, spitting out alum who can obtain high-paying jobs so that they can ‘give back’ to their alma mater,  and ultimately desiring to destroy any assemblage of faith?

Do we see ourselves as indifferent to the institution — believing that we simply share the same students, and geographical location, and ultimately operating independently from one another… with nothing to gain, share or be shaped by from the other?

The direction we choose to go during this orientation process will have a significant impact on our long-term relationship with the institution — which will, in turn, have a significant impact on our ministry efforts.

SO, what direction do you go?  How is that working for you?  Is a change of direction needed?

I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this!

Grace and peace to you during this season of orienting students to a life of faith on the campus you serve!!