I am passionate about renewal within the United Methodist Church in Kansas. I believe that Bridges to the Future Capital Campaign for Kansas United Methodists is an important part of this renewal. The following content was provided as a part of the Kansas East Media Packet.
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Bridges take us from where we are to where we want to go. Our conference has approved this initiative to enable us to provide more appropriate facilities for campus ministries and camping, and to expand the Kingdom through church growth and development.
Areas of Strength:
• Full-time campus ministers at three universities and part-time campus ministers at four universities
• Student associate and resident programs that develop leadership skills
• Weekly fellowship, worship and discipleship opportunities
• Spring-break trips, mission experiences and learning opportunities off-campus
• Vocational counseling and participation in ministry exploration events
• Individual counseling and individual problem-solving
Key Ministries:
• Christian leadership development through student-leadership opportunities within ministries
• Pilgrimage learning activities for students to explore their faith outside the campus setting
• Development of Christian community and social witness in the campus setting and in the community
• Praise services, discipleship groups and mission experiences develop and deepen students’ faith
Importance and Future Plans:
• College and campuses are the most important mission field of the 21st century
• Campus ministry is an up-front investment in the next generation and the future of the church
• Development of facilities and facility improvements will enable sites to offer visible ministries of presence on campuses
• Adequate space and facilities will enable ministries to grow and expand to meet the needs of future students
“Campus ministry came in a pivotal part of my life … I like to say now that I had a ‘borrowed’ faith. I believe campus ministry saved my life. Through theological discussions, fellowship with others and a sense of belonging, I finally learned what it meant to own my own faith.”
–Stephanie Seth, hometown Arkansas City, Kansas, Emporia State University campus ministry, member of Silver Lake UMC
Rev. Andrew Conard 