Jesus at college?
Way back when I was in college, a Pastor from UW-Madison came to our school and asked if any of us would like to come and help with efforts to invite students to the campus ministry. Several of us took the opportunity and a few Saturdays later we were walking through the Madison campus (including to some of the dorms currently quarantined due to COVID) to offer invitations. We visited the rooms of students to invite them the church and other activities offered by WELS ministry. The Pastor wanted to connect with as many of the hundreds of WELS students as possible to keep them in God’s Word during the challenges of university life. While college life is a great opportunity to grow and mature, it also presents many intellectual challenge – as well as lifestyle temptations- to the Christian faith. But we discovered that many close friendships were formed and a group gathered weekly for Bible study and encouragement. We ended up heading to Madison several times over the course of the next few years to help with the outreach effort. We can’t forget our college students.
We know that Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.” Of course, Jesus loves children of all ages, college students too. 2020 marks the 100th year anniversary of “WELS Campus Ministry.” Started in Madison back in 1920, there is outreach now in over 400 campuses throughout the country. While these efforts are designed to serve WELS college students away from home, they also reach out to anyone seeking to grow in faith. Some locations have special worship facilities like UW-Madison, but most offer programs through a local congregation. It’s important during the college age years that we continue to connect student to the promises that God offers in His Word. If you know of college students away from home encourage them to connect with a WELS campus ministry. Nearly every university within 200 miles of Nodine has some type of program.
Jesus – don’t leave home without Him!
“…for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matt. 19:14
