As the semester comes to a close, consider throwing a huge party with your church to reflect on all that God has done this semester/year.
One of the core values of my particular college ministry (and BASIC as a whole) is that we’re supported by, and rooted in a local church. The chapter of BASIC that I have the honor of shepherding serves as the college outreach of a local church in my area. This particular church has a huge heart for the movement of God on the local college campuses, and supports our every move with prayer, finances, rides for students, vehicle repairs, delicious treats, mentoring relationships, and much more.
Once a year, we get permission from our Senior Pastor to take over a church service, which we call #BASICsunday. We have students lead worship, share stories of how God showed up in their lives, lead the congregation in prayer, and more. This is what it’ll look like this year:
- Student kicks off service with prayer
- BASIC worship team leads congregation in worship
- Brief picture slideshow of events from this semester
- 5-10 students share stories of how God moved this semester
- Time of recognition for people who have gone above and beyond in helping our ministry
- I’ll share a brief message & give a report on what my experience is like serving in this ministry
- The church elder who oversees our ministry will minister communion
- We currently have 4 students who I’ll water baptize
We see this event as a way of delivering a good report on the investment that the church makes toward the ministry year-round. By taking over the church service, we’re able to encourage our church family and let them know that God is using their energy and resources to make things happen on campus!
Events like these are also beneficial for our students. It allows them to reflect on what Jesus did in their individual lives, and rejoice with other students who have experienced God’s love in their own way. For students who do not currently attend church, this is a good way to get them in the door and meet some of the folks who pray for and support them.
An event like this is not difficult to coordinate, if your pastor is willing to let it happen. Please feel free to contact me with any questions on how to make this happen.
What do you think? What other creative ways can we encourage our supporting churches?