Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Seemingly Off-topic
I really like Jane's question and I would like to address it sometime. However, right now I am posting to ask you guys a question. It isn't for discussion per se, but it very well could be discussed anyhow. I am doing research for my work-study position (with College Ministries) on life groups in dormitories geared toward spiritual formation (like small groups). What are your campuses doing and is it effective? We currently have Life Groups which are formed according to dorms based largely on student leadership. We're trying to get ideas to spurr on the effectiveness of these groups, since they often peter out. Anyway, what does your college (or college ministry if you attend a non-Christian college as many of you do) have in place to facilitate spiritual growth? Any ideas would be fantastic. For intellectual discussion, what is the value of such ministries? Should they be mandatory or voluntary? How should they be encouraged?
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As you all probably know, I go to a secular university. This does not, however, mean that it is devoid of Christianity. In fact, I have randomly met many Christians in the short time that I have been here. As someone who has always desired to be part of a Christian circle of friends, this is very exciting to me.
I have quickly learned that there is a wide variety of options as far as church goes on this campus. I have attended His House Christian Fellowship three times so far. They have something similar to small groups called "life groups". There is also a Campus Crusade for Christ on campus, and they also have life groups. Most of the churches on campus are much smaller than Campus Crusade and His House. I do not know much about them, so I am not sure whether they have small groups or not.
It has become evident to me that these groups are encouraged among the college ministries. I am not exactly sure what their focus is, but my intention is to use it, in part, as a way to fuel myself for further ministry as I return to my three non-Christian roommates. As far as a Christian school goes, there are definitely people in need of discipleship on a Christian campus. In fact, they may be more difficult to minister to because they may be more difficult to see. On a secular campus, sin stares you in the face. On a Christian campus, it can be well hidden.
I am not sure if this is exactly what you wanted to hear, but these are just my impromptu thoughts on the matter.
i'd say it's like an umbrella with little beads hanging down.
new life church is the umbrella. underneath are the veins of various parts of campus: north campus, hill east, hill blue, south quad, off campus, etc. attached to these church-veins (which meet sunday nights for "training and encouragement") are the little beads of small groups. "life groups" as they are called play a crucial part in the community of new life. however there isn't much emphasis on Bible study.
i am somewhat afraid that the emphasis of this church (at least in my small group) is more on community than Christ, but it does a good job of reaching out to unbelievers.
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