“Have a Ripple Effect”
Often, we find that the greatest simplicity veils the deeply profound. Seemingly insignificant and routine human interactions carry immense and unseen influence in our extremely complex world. Each of us lives the ripple effect, whether for better or for worse.
Examining the ripples in my own life brings to light the impact of the United Methodist Campus Ministry at American University on the people my life touches. I found a much needed home in the United Methodist Campus Ministry during my four years at American University. I met remarkable, fun, thoughtful and accepting people and was continually inspired by Rev. Mark Schaefer’s passion and commitment to seeing Christ’s work done on campus and across the city. The firm foundation built on the laughter, studying, conversation, caring and action of friends within the United Methodist Campus Ministry is invaluable to me, informing my values and actions every day as a youth group leader and teacher.
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Can I manage to sit next to my girlfriend at the assembly? Did I remember to bring my clothes to change for gym? Did that last assignment bump my grade to passing in French so I can play in tonight’s game? What was up with my friend’s away message this morning?
These are the questions many assume run through the average (if there is such a thing) middle school student. Last night, my youth group proved the depth of what really goes through their head, revealing some challenging questions about the very essence of faith and the role it plays in their lives. They are trying to understand the complexities and contradictions of the world of school, friends and media and reconcile them with what they learn in church. This is no easy task. The hope of the world lies in the questioning of students like these. They must have the resources and the space to examine their faith and to begin the work of becoming leaders in their church and community.
For the past two years, my youth group has participated in the 30 Hour Famine, raising a total of $2,400.00 to combat the causes of poverty worldwide. Through Compassion International, the youth group sponsors Umukundwa Alice, a young girl in Rwanda. We also regularly pick up trash on our town’s main street, suggesting and getting a stronger dumping law passed in our community.
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The United Methodist Campus Ministry at American University fueled my passion for missions and youth ministry. My ripples began at American University and flow through the students in my youth group to faces I will never see. Campus Ministry’s vital importance is that it provides a forum for exploration of important issues of faith, identity and action during a time when many are searching for answers and direction in their life. Those answers and that foundation ripple through college students as they begin their journeys, touching countless people and showing God’s face in this troubled world.
Holly is a 2004 graduate of American University.
