Understanding How Campus Ministry Works

Characteristics

It is mission-oriented (Matthew 28:18-20). It takes on the imperative of the Great Commission and sees itself as an evangelistic beachhead on campus. Students need to see their campus not only in terms of getting an education, but also in terms of mission. 

It is an equipping ministry (Ephesians 4:11-13). This involves cultivating a strong sense of community, nurturing the gifts and ministries of each student, and reproducing strong, well-trained leaders.

It is a balanced ministry (Acts 2:42-47). It is balanced in its commitment to become a community of worship, fellowship, discipleship, mission, and prayer. It is also balanced in its structure with large-group gatherings, small-group meetings and outreach.

Structures

There are four foundational (or “below ground”) components to ministry on campus: First is a clear and compelling vision; second is consistent and growing funding; third is prayer; and fourth is ongoing leadership development. 

There are also four “above ground” structures necessary for campus ministry: 

The first is a fall blitz period at the start of the school year. The goal is to be as visible as possible, while searching to mobilize Christian students coming to school for ministry to those who are not yet followers of Christ.

Second, large-group meetings are set up for worship, fellowship and teaching (or Bible study) which foster a sense of corporate identity and direction.

Third, small-group meetings/cell groups are established which address the need for intimate, personal interaction between students and serve as the primary vehicle for evangelism and discipleship.

Fourth, ongoing evangelistic/mission activities that utilize every possible means to interface with the university community and share the gospel, and challenge students with global missions.

Whether the group is missionary led, church led, or college student led, the focus needs to be the equipping and releasing of students to reach their classmates. College students are able to carry the vision, ownership, and responsibility of ministry, and will benefit from the coaching and mentoring of adults.

A Typical Year 

As ministry develops, a discernable pattern will generally emerge as the school year progresses. The fall of the year will usually be a period of assimilation during which many new students will be reached. In fact, the most important ministry weeks of the year are the one week before fall term begins as students are moving in and being oriented and the following two weeks of actual school. Participate in new-student orientation. Help students move in or help their parents move their college students into campus housing. Sponsor a cookout the day before classes begin.

Set up an information table or exhibit with other campus organizations at the beginning of the year. The winter will often be a time of consolidation in which discipleship groups strengthen and leadership classes begin. Often the fall and winter are ideal times for retreats and conferences, especially during the Christmas-New Year’s Break. 

The spring, then, will usually be a time for mobilization. Evangelism is stressed, plans for the next fall are made, and new leadership is selected during this time. In every phase, precise advanced planning and prayer are essential. Students also participate in spring break outreaches going from one campus to another or doing service or missions projects. Many students prepare for summer missions projects during the spring term.