Campus Ministry Update
Hello from Campus Ministries!
Our college students have returned home for the summer, and the second and third pews seem a little emptier without them. Even so, planning for the upcoming school year is already underway.
This past year, we saw more students participating in UKirk and our Campus Ministry program, and we are excited about that growth. We hope to see even more students worshiping with us, participating in local service projects, and gathering each week for Tuesday night Dinner and Dialogue. As this ministry continues to flourish, we need the support of our congregation in two specific ways:
- Becoming a Second Family
- Providing Tuesday Night Dinners
Become a Second Family
If you are unfamiliar with WPC's Second Family program, here's how it works: you are paired with a college student and, throughout the school year, you check in with them periodically—typically about once a month.
Second Families often greet their students at worship and find opportunities to spend time together. That might mean grabbing coffee or ice cream after church, sharing a meal in your home, or simply sending a note of encouragement during a stressful time in the semester. Every relationship looks a little different, and that's okay.
We also ask Second Families to pray for their students throughout the year. It is a wonderful way to build meaningful relationships with some of the young adults who call WPC and William & Mary home during their college years.
I encourage you to pray about these opportunities and consider whether God may be calling you to serve in this way. If you are interested in becoming a Second Family—or if you simply have questions—please don't hesitate to reach out. I would be happy to connect you with current or former Second Families who can share their experiences with the program.
Help Feed Our Students
Another important way to support our growing ministry is by preparing dinner for one Tuesday evening during the academic year.
We have a faithful core group of volunteers who provide meals for Dinner and Dialogue, but we would love to welcome a few more people into the rotation. Preparing a meal for approximately 20 college students may sound daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. Consider inviting members of your Sunday School class, small group, or circle of friends to help. As the saying goes, many hands make light work.
The good news is that our students aren't particularly picky eaters, and I would be happy to provide meal suggestions if needed. As an added bonus, volunteers are invited to stay, share the meal, and get to know the students they are serving.
As we get closer to August, I will share a sign-up link in one of the Looking Forward emails. I hope you will consider choosing a Tuesday evening to help nourish both the bodies and spirits of our college students.
Thank you for supporting this important ministry and for helping our students find community, encouragement, and a home away from home at WPC.
– Caroline Johnston
Director of UKirk and Campus Ministries
