As many campuses are shut down due to the health crisis, many are trying some on-line small groups and even live streaming a Bible study or worship event. Yet, with many experiencing a time of "empty campus", it is a time of introspection and personal evaluation. I want to re-examine some of the "College Minister Types". I am all about different type of College Ministers simply because there is more than one way to do it right.
Here is a quick look at some types:
THE PERSONALITY - This is the one most people hiring think they are needing. This is the gifted speaker with the charismatic personality. They instantly draw a crowd. Most of us do not fit this category. One easy mistake is trying to be this personality, when we are not.
THE CEO - The CEO is your Type A personality who is firmly in charge who is usually an organizer and promoter.
THE MANAGER - The Manager is different from the CEO in that he/she tends to be much more behind the scenes. The strength of their ministry is stability.
THE PASTOR - Often this College Minister has been a pastor and operates a bit more formally in their relationship to students.
THE PEER - Or as some tag it, "The Hang Out Minister". This style is done in more one to one relationships with an emphasis on community building.
THE COUNSELOR - Many students have issues with parents and self-awareness and this College Minister thrives in one to one counseling and helping students make personal decisions.
THE TECHIE - Usually a young College Minister who is on all types of social media and uses it as a main force in driving their ministry.
Usually, I ask WHICH ONE ARE YOU? But, today the question is, "WHICH ONE IS YOUR TOTAL OPPOSITE?
If each of these are valid ministry models, then which one is opposite your style AND what should you learn from that style or personality? Be who you are, but be willing to develop in an area that has not been a strength and may add a dimension to your ministry.
OTHER THINGS TO DO DURING THIS TIME:
-Connect with another Campus Minister for mutual encouragement and sharing of ideas during this very different time. Check out the weekly Zoom Conference being done
-Be aware of students who may not be able to go home due to home or work, or whatever and encourage them individually.
-Do some extra reading during this time. What are some topics you need to bone up on?
Arliss Dickerson is a part time college ministry consultant for Lifeway Christian Resources and the author of five books on college ministry available in eBook and print at amazon.com (Type in Arliss Dickerson). Coming this summer: "ALMOST Everything About College Ministry".
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