Christian Union: The Magazine Fall 2018

YALE

PRINCETON

Delivering Good News

Olympic Dreams

Christian Union the magazine :: fall 2018

Christian Union Dedicates Columbia Ministry Center page 4

Special Feature Section: Harvest Time Christian Union New York: Engaging Through Volunteering The Spiritual Climate on Campus News from some of the nation’s leading universities

1

February 22–24, 2019 || New Brunswick, NJ

A conference for students at Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Penn, Princeton, Stanford, and Yale.

Powerful prayer and worship. Challenging speakers. Dynamic breakouts.

Encouraging small groups. Electrifying spoken word. Intimate fellowship. Nexus.

REGISTER TODAY: CUNexusConference.org ALSO: RECENT GRADUATES AND PROFESSIONALS Save the date: The 2nd Annual Christian Union Cities Conference June 21-22, 2019 || CUCitiesConference.org

table of contents

volume xvii issue iii

Christian Union the maga zine :: fall 2018 20

in e ach issue Letter from the CEO / 3 Q and A / 12 Stewardship News / 36

44

8

8 Harvest Time

on the web ChristianUnion.org Twitter.com/ChristianUnion Facebook.com/Christian.Union

............

the maga zine

Christian Union Caritas / 18 Olympic Dreams (Princeton) / 20 chris tian union univer sities

Cornell / 22 Dartmouth / 29

chris tian union cities New York Christian Union / 34 c h r i s t i a n u n i o n d ay a n d n i g h t Fasting for Cultural Revolution / 37

Yale / 24 Brown / 26 Penn / 27 Harvard / 30 Columbia / 32

38 The Spiritual Climate on Campus

updat e s fr om l e ading univer si t ie s Claritas and Veritas (Cornell) :: A Sacred Space (Dartmouth) :: The Case for Creation (Harvard) :: Plato in Paris (Princeton) :: Argued out of Atheism (Yale) :: News-in-Brief from each university, and more

christianunion.org

Photo credit: Sara Beth Turner

::

cover photo: The Columbia Ministry Center Dedication: (top row, left to right) Yujin Kim ’19, Ministry Director Lane Young, Taylor Weldon ’20, (middle row) Nathaniel Wyatt ’20, Founding Ministry Director Jim Black, Heather Morriss ’19, (bottom row) Benjamin Jaimes ’21, Gabby Lewis ’19, and Juliet Lee ’21

16 From the University to the City

2018

............

fal l 2 01 8 fe at ure sec t ion That None Would Perish / 10 Q and A with David M. Gustafson / 12 The Early Church and Evangelism / 14

fall

This magazine is published by Christian Union, an independent Christian ministry.

1

Christian Union T H E

M A G A Z I N E

volume xvii issue iii fall 2018 Matthew Bennett

editor-in-chief

executive editor

managing editor

creative director

Patrick Dennis

staff writer

Catherine Elvy

field reporters

Lorri Bentch Tom Campisi

Jon Garaffa

Zachary Lee Francine Barchett Kayla Bartsch Nathan Barlow Kaiyla Banks

INVEST IN TOMORROW’S LEADERS.

Ayleen Sanchez Melanie Prakash Cassandra Jobman Meagan Peters

photo editor

contributing editor

proofreader

Rachel Mari

art director

Michelle Taylor

production

Sarah Camp

Bethany Wakeley

feedback or subscription changes

STARTING TODAY.

19 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08542 or via e-mail: TheMagazine@ChristianUnion.org new subscriptions

Do you know someone who would enjoy a free subscription to this magazine? Please use either address above to pass along their names.

Become a Monthly Sustainer: Making a monthly donation is a strategic way to invest in the men and women who will become the next generation of godly leaders. Joining Christian Union’s monthly sustainer team allows you to make a powerful and long-lasting impact in the lives of these students, on these campuses, and in raising up the Christian leaders our nation needs so desperately.

Sign up at:

ChristianUnion.org/GiveMonthly

By God’s power and with the help of other ministries, Christian Union’s mission is to transform the world by developing and connecting bold Christian leaders. The ministry was founded in 2002 in Princeton, New Jersey.

Learn more at ChristianUnion.org

©2018 Christian Union. All rights reserved. Christian Union: The Magazine is published quarterly. Its goal is to encourage and inform Christian alumni, students, parents, staff, faculty, and friends about Christian Union’s work—and about other spiritual activity—at eight of this country’s most influential colleges, and in key cities.

Our desire is that this publication would inspire readers to seek God, to use their influence for the cause of Christ, to pray, and to give financially to Christian initiatives that are bringing about culture change for God’s glory.

To request an advertising rate card, please e-mail Tom. Campisi@ChristianUnion.org. postmaster: Send address changes to: Christian Union, 19 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08542

letter from the founder and ceo

Sharing the Good News

2018

good news, it’s the substance of the message itself that is radical and world-changing.

It’s helpful to put the message out there all the time, and let others process it before God, responding as they are interested and ready.

I am thankful that my step-mother came to faith in the last few years. She’s been part of the family for several decades and is regarded much more warmly than the term “step-mother” can convey. I first witnessed to her when we met, 30 years ago, but it was not yet her time. A few years ago, she attended one of our conferences and experienced several miracles, persuading her of the love of God and the truthfulness of the Gospel message. She has joined a church and has already led a friend to Christ.

I still have loved ones who do not know the Lord, and perhaps you do as well. May God grant them openness of heart, and may He strengthen us to continue to proclaim forgiveness of sins, which He offers to everyone.

Sincerely in Christ,

fall

“Successful witnessing is simply taking the initiative to share Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God.”

M

::

Matthew W. Bennett matt bennett is the founder and CEO of Christian Union. He earned undergraduate and MBA degrees from Cornell, and launched Christian Union in 2002 in Princeton, New Jersey.

christianunion.org

any Christians put too much pressure on themselves when sharing Christ with others.

We pray for their openness, and speak the Word boldly. Then, the decision about whether they want to repent is up to them.

Having spent 12 years on staff with Campus Crusade for Christ (now Cru), I love the definition of successful witnessing that I was taught: “Successful witnessing is simply taking the initiative to share Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit and leaving the results to God.” Every day we walk among people who are condemned, and because they are condemned already, there’s no need for us to speak condemnation to them. John 3:1718 says, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” The good news of the Gospel is that every person can be free in Jesus Christ, that is, to have condemnation lifted from them completely and forever. Everything the Bible says about humanity, God, and salvation is true. The Bible contains such incredibly good news!

The power for conversion comes by the Holy Spirit and is also contained in the message itself. While it’s always a good idea to become more skillful in explaining the

3

A Celebrated Space

Christian Union Dedicates Ministry Center at Columbia by catherine elvy, staff writer

P

Given the premium on meeting space at Columbia, Christian Union Founder and Chief Executive Officer Matt Bennett noted the brownstone will serve as a powerful game-changer for the spread of the Gospel and developing Christian leaders on campus. Before maneuvering a giant pair of scissors to slice a white ribbon across the facility’s porch, Bennett (Cornell ’88,

MBA ’89) thanked God and donors for enabling the ministry to acquire the 6,810-square-foot building, just steps from campus.

In turn, 60-plus guests, including donors and students, rejoiced over the Christian Union Center’s proximity to campus while chatting over a hearty brunch.

Jim Black, the former director of Chris-

christian union

::

the magazine

rofound awe and gratitude permeated the highly anticipated opening of Christian Union’s ministry center adjacent to Columbia University.

On October 13, staff, ministry faculty, and financial partners of the leadership development organization celebrated the debut of the center on West 113th Street with a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

4

Photo credit: Sara Beth Turner

Christian Union leadership and financial partners cheer as the ribbon is cut to open the new ministry center at Columbia University.

ing their homes to students for Bible courses and meetings. At times, 100-plus students have stopped by the ministry director’s apartment to take part in events and meetings.

During the brunch, Ministry Fellow Bryant Parsons was effusive at the prospect of faculty members being able to host simultaneous Bible course gatherings. “This is a tremendous blessing,” Parsons said.

“In New York City, space is the issue.”

units across five floors plus a basement.

Christian Union occupies the unit comprising the basement plus first floor.

For now, Christian Union plans to rent the remaining two units within the multi-family, walk-up building to offset the mortgage. Eventually, the ministry plans to raise additional funds to utilize the entire terraced-housing unit. Christian Union will be offering naming rights to new spaces.

Photo credit: Sara Beth Turner

Rand and Laurie Unger, Peter and Linda Cline, Matt Bennett, and Kim and Bob Rankin at the new Christian Union Center at Columbia University.

:: christianunion.org

The Christian Union Center is perfectly located one block from Butler Library and in the heart of student housing. Three undergraduate residential halls and five fraternities/sororities sit on the same block.

Young was able to engage more new students in his first three days at the center than in the previous year of ministry. The incredible location of the building will be transformational for the ministry and for students’ lives.

2018

Yujin Kim ’19, student co-president of Christian Union at Columbia, agreed. The center will be “like a second home for a lot of people and a godly one, too.” As well, the ministry center will serve as a base for prayer gatherings. “It’s surreal,” said Juliet Lee ’21.

Located in the historic Morningside Heights neighborhood, the building was constructed in 1915 and includes a patio garden. The structure is divided into three

fall

tian Union’s ministry at Columbia who now serves with Caritas, the organization’s outreach to Stanford University, was visibly moved at the fruition of five-plus years of efforts behind the acquisition and debut of the ministry center. “I’m very excited for how the Lord is going to use that space,” he said.

In February, Christian Union purchased the multistory building at 529 W. 113th Street, fulfilling a significant step in its long-held vision of operating a ministry center near Columbia’s educational and research hub in Upper Manhattan.

Properties near Columbia are challenging to secure as the university owns much of the surrounding neighborhood. Given the competitive nature of Manhattan’s real-estate market, Christian Union leadership lionized the extraordinary acquisition, just a block from Columbia University’s massive Butler Library.

During the dedication ceremony, Lane Young, Christian Union’s ministry director at Columbia, prayed for the Christian Union Center to serve as a temple of God’s presence and a house of prayer. In addition to functioning as a hub for Bible courses, discipleship, and meetings, Young also envisions the facility providing a secure, cozy hangout for students.

“All along, God has been orchestrating this,” said Young. “He has absolutely placed us in this location.”

After years of leasing office space on 110th Street, Columbia ministry fellows are relieved to have roomier facilities to accommodate their swelling contingent of 200-plus students.

Since Christian Union launched at Columbia University in 2011, ministry fellows have dealt with the space crunch within the densely populated area by open-

5

the magazine

:: christian union

Photo credit: Sarah Beth Turner

6

Christian Union faculty members Ava Ligh, Bryant Parsons, Lane Young, and Jesse Peterson in front of their new ministry center at Columbia.

The importance of the Christian Union Center was underscored by a tragic event just two days before the celebration. On October 11, a sophomore committed suicide in his residential hall on the same street. The young woman who discovered him was the roommate of a Christian Union student. Christian Union faculty were moved to tears, wishing that the young man had known the hope and future found in Jesus Christ.

“It was a sober reminder of the critical need for His light in this hurting world,” said Bennett.

Over the weekend, Bennett and Christian Union expressed gratitude for God’s grace in making this ministry center a reality, while also giving thanks for several donations, including a $700,000 matching gift by the BridgeHead Foundation. More than 250 financial partners, including the Stover Foundation and Glen and Betty Jean Knecht, helped support Christian Union’s efforts to move forward with the opportune purchase.

Of key significance, Peter and Linda Cline helped facilitate the matching gift from BridgeHead, where Peter Cline serves as a trustee. The Clines developed a heart for Christian Union while Adam Cline ’16 participated in the ministry as an undergraduate and athlete at Columbia University.

Peter Cline especially was touched as he watched his son, a member of Columbia’s baseball team, develop meaningful relationships with spiritual mentors and peers. “We appreciate the focused efforts to train leaders with biblical principles,” he said.

Likewise, Linda Cline expressed gratitude to Christian Union faculty for their tangible efforts to shepherd students. “They meet one

Photo credit: Sarah Beth Turner

Kate Farrar, a Christian Union Director of Development (left), talks with Jennifer Mahan, Columbia ’15, and James Cumming, Columbia ’15, at the brunch following the dedication of the Christian Union Center at Columbia University.

Union’s goals of providing practical resources to believers at top universities. Christian Union also operates ministry centers at Brown, Cornell, Princeton, and Yale universities.

As Adam Cline can attest, attending a top-tier university as a Christian can be a daunting task. To receive deep intellectual development in the Christian faith during undergraduate studies can be powerful.

The new ministry center offers an amazing setup and represents an answer to prayer, Cline said. “It’s going to be great to see where it goes,” he said.

Bennett said the Christian Union Center at Columbia will help bring transformation to the students and their spheres of influence.

“Generations of influential students, faculty, and alumni will be emboldened and equipped to carry revival and cultural reformation to the university and the world,” he said. | cu

fall

2018 ::

on one with so many students who are wrestling with so many things,” she said.

The couple felt compelled to support the ministry center after learning of the

momentum in Christian Union’s efforts to secure property in Columbia’s vibrant neighborhood.

The development mirrors Christian

christianunion.org

Photo credit: Sarah Beth Turner

Guests and Christian Union staff at the Christian Union Center

7

8

christian union

::

the magazine

feature section :: fall 2018 Christopher White: That None Would Perish / 10 Q and A with David M. Gustafson / 12 The Early Church and Evangelism / 14

Harvest Time And Jesus went throughout all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the

matthew

In this special section, Christian Union: The Magazine presents three articles on evangelism that seek to teach, encourage, and exhort believers to be salt and light and share the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. photo credit: rob birkbeck, lightstock

christianunion.org

9:35-37

::

–

2018

to send out laborers into his harvest.”

fall

laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest

9

feature section | harvest time

That None Would Perish Do We Have a Passion for Souls? by christopher n. white, evangelist

A

s Jesus makes abundantly clear, the heart of God is never satisfied while even one soul is still lost, wandering in the darkness of sin:

christian union

::

the magazine

What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, “Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!” I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance (Luke 15:4-7, NKJV).

10

Lord and His great compassion towards sinners? Do we rest peaceably while souls all around us are perishing, dying because they have never had the chance to hear of the grace of Jesus Christ? If we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are “the salt of the earth,” we are “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14). Nevertheless, how

The Scriptures also declare that the Lord is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, Evangelist Christopher N. White NKJV). To be clear, this does not mean that everymany of us live comfortable lives, happy one will be saved, because some willfully to be saved, and oblivious to the lost all persist in their rebellion despite all that around us? We are busy about our own God does to save them: Though “light has agendas, until our hearts encounter Jesus’ come into the world… they love darkness heart. Then we find a restlessness inside, rather than light, because their deeds were an uncomfortable burden for dying souls evil” (John 3:19). God calls them to repent, that cannot be ignored. Proverbs 24:11-12 but they willfully refuse. warns us: Yet, how do our hearts compare to the

Deliver those who are drawn toward death, And hold back those stumbling to the slaughter.

If you say, “Surely we did not know this,” Does not He who weighs the hearts consider it?

He who keeps your soul, does He not know it?

And will He not render to each man according to his deeds?

While riding in a coach one day in England more than one hundred years ago, the Lord gave a vision to William Booth, the mighty evangelist who founded and built the Salvation Army.

In the vision, which centered on Christian indifference toward the lost, believers are safely perched on a rock, as multitudes are drowning in the “angry deep.” The believers are praying and crying out to God to come to them, while the Lord implores them to help those who are drowning in despair.

The Father’s heart is so tender toward the lost! Brokenness should therefore be the normal condition of the heart of every follower of Jesus: brokenness because of the greatness of our sin, brokenness because of the marvelous mercy we have received, and brokenness because we realize that so many around us are still lost and on their way to eternal death.

God broke the heart of William Booth at the age of fifteen when he heard a street preacher, Isaac Marsden, cry out, “A soul dies every minute!” He could not shrug off those words as he walked away. His actions from that day forward suggest Marsden’s words never stopped echoing in his mind.

God used William and his beloved wife, Catherine, to rescue tens of thousands of England’s oppressed underclass of incurably poor, helpless, and hopeless souls. These were people that the English churches would not allow through their doors even after they were saved—which is why the Booths opened their own chapels. As some scholars have since pointed out, the work of the Salvation Army so transformed English society at the end of the 19th century that it is likely that the Booths spared England from a Communist revolution. Before they and other like-minded believers arrived on the scene, multitudes of England’s poor had

willing to be an evangelist. About twenty years ago, my wife persuaded me to go with her to see the movie Titanic—over my strong objections. I knew too much of the tragic history of that ship to enjoy a Hollywood romance, but that day, my wife was right and I was wrong. During the scene near the end when survivors, resting in lifeboats that were less than half-filled, refused to go back and rescue hundreds more who were still drowning in the freezing North Atlantic, I sat weeping uncontrollably in my seat—facing the hardness of my own heart towards the lost.

It was then and there that the Lord

How do our hearts compare to the Lord and His great compassion towards sinners? Do we rest peaceably while souls all around us are perishing, dying because they have never had the chance to hear of the grace of Jesus Christ? If we know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are “the salt of the earth,” we are “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-14).

2018 :: christianunion.org

spoke to me, telling me that we, as believers, are like those people in the lifeboats.

We are so glad to be safe and dry that we fail to care about those still drowning all around us. In that theater, the Lord spoke to me words that I will never forget: “Don’t run from the fire!” What fire, you may ask?

The fire of God’s love that wants to purify us to the bottom, to burn up all the dross that will never fit in the kingdom of Heaven, until we become vessels fit for the Master’s use. This is the fire of the Spirit that, having rescued us, wants to burn so strongly in our hearts that we are no longer willing to let others perish, dying for want of the help we could give them. This is the

is an evangelist and teacher proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ in the greater New York region, in Latin America, and on college campuses. He works with the UEC-Fresh Springs Association, is a member of the Next Generation Alliance of the Luis Palau Association, and is a graduate of Yale University (’87) and Columbia University/Teachers College (’91).

He has published one book, Come Follow Me: Becoming Disciples and Members of the Body of Christ, and is completing a second, The Nature and Work of the Holy Spirit, which should be in print in 2019. christopher n. white

fall

been no less miserable than the oppressed masses of Czarist Russia.

But what about us? Now is our time— and our turn! Are we willing to let men, women, and children in our generation perish for lack of the salvation that only Jesus can give? The terrible reality is that many believers prove every day how little they care about the lost by their actions, or inaction. Is there a lost and wandering sheep whom Jesus loves who is our neighbor, our co-worker, our classmate, our colleague, our family member? Jesus wants to use us to bring them home to the Father.

I must admit that the Lord had to work on my heart for a long time before I was

fire that brings tears to our eyes as we pray for others because our hearts are filled with the love of the One who is “not willing that any should perish.” For two or three years after that day in the theater, I could not listen to the theme song of the movie Titanic, either on the radio or in a store, without beginning to weep all over again.

Oh, that God would break our hearts— until we care as He cares and are willing to go out at any cost to “rescue the perishing.” | cu

11

feature section | harvest time

Gospel Witness

Q and A with Professor David Gustafson

D

avid M. Gustafson is Associate Professor of Evangelism and Missional Ministry at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He teaches courses in evangelism, missional church, discipleship, and theology of mission and evangelism. Professor Gustafson served in ministry for 25 years as a campus director of Cru and pastor of evangelism and discipleship. He holds degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (MDiv, ThM), Fuller Theological Seminary (DMin), and Linköping University (PhD). His latest book, Gospel Witness: Evangelism in Word and Deed, is scheduled to be released in February.

cu magazine: How would you define evangelism?

Evangelism is communication − and often a conversation − between a believer in Jesus and a non-believer, in which the person and work of Jesus enters the conversation. In other words, the Gospel or some aspect of it is explored, discussed, or explained. Sometimes the question is raised as to whether the Gospel can be communicated exclusively by works through social action, benevolent deeds, and seeking justice. The popular saying that is incorrectly attributed to St. Francis of Assisi states, “Preach the gospel at all times; use words if necessary.” The problem with this saying and others like it is that it disconnects works from words. The essence of evangelism is communication of the good news. The gospel is verbal at its core (Rom. 10:14–17).

christian union

::

the magazine

david gustafson:

12

CU: What has fueled your passion for

DG: I have taught evangelism at the sem-

inary level for the last nine years and used several books as texts. Some books were written for different readDG: At first, I shared the ers in mind. Of course, Gospel because it was some authors repeat othsomething that I knew I ers and some say things should do. I am thankful that I do not find helpful. for ministry staff that Gospel Witness is my best trained me in ways to share effort to communicate to my Christian faith. I also students, pastors, and trained others to share the Christian leaders what I good news. However, a think is formative to unpassion for evangelism is derstanding the task and sustained over the long practice of evangelism. haul through several One of the benefits for me means. Gospel witness is David M. Gustafson, Associate in this writing process has about whom we worship, Professor of Evangelism and been for my classes to read who we are, what we re- Missional Ministry at Trinity drafts of the book. Stuceive, what we say, and Evangelical Divinity School dents have raised queswhat we do. In fact, I think tions, challenged some of that Gospel proclamation my ideas, and offered suggestions based can run the risk of imbalance. This is paron their insights and experiences. I have ticularly true when Gospel proclamation edited the book with these things in mind. is separated from the whole life of a I have also written the book with our curChrist-follower. The act of sharing the rent Western context in mind. I believe Gospel with others is not an isolated part that we must engage in Gospel witness by of the Christian life, but one of multiple, speaking the good news in words and interconnected activities. Worship of the demonstrating it with deeds. triune God, hospitality, reconciliation, service, study of the Scriptures, forgiveness, CU: In Gospel Witness, you write about prayer, compassion, sharing resources, jusliving out the good news in addition to tice, and friendship all come together to proclaiming the good news. How does inform and shape this practice. Only this happen? through such integral practices of Christian faith and life does Gospel proclamation DG: I advocate that the disciple-making retain its integrity in practice and endure mandate and cultural mandate come toover the years. gether in holistic witness, so that the Gospel is heard in word and experienced in CU: Why did you decide to write your deed. It is proclamation and presence, latest book, Gospel Witness: Evangelism explanation and example, word and works. in Word and Deed?

In other words, we do not merely speak of God’s mercy toward us in the Gospel, but

evangelism over the years?

embody mercy in our care of others (Matt.

5:7). As we declare God’s forgiveness in Jesus Christ, we forgive those who have sinned against us (Matt. 18:21–35). As we speak of Jesus’ sacrificial love for the world, we love others, even our enemies (Matt.

5:43–48; James 2:8). As we speak of Jesus Christ, whose atoning death reconciled us to God, we practice the ministry of reconciliation, being reconciled with others— even those different from us—and exhort others to be reconciled with God (Matt.

5:23–24; 2 Cor. 5:18).

DG: The aim is to create a culture that

prepares and reinforces Gospel praxis, shaping a local body of disciples in a way that supports, practices, and celebrates evangelism. A key text is Ephesians 4:7-11; gifted leaders are to prepare disciples for works of service. Those who are gifted as evangelists, for example, need to be identified, so that they can model evangelism and equip those who are less experienced.

sional engagement in a post-Christian, Western context?

DG: Missional engagement requires re-

church history you can identify as examples of people who did evangelism well?

:: christianunion.org

Moreover, while a pastor is a shepherd who leads and feeds the flock, he, too, equips disciples for works of service (1 Pet. 5:2; Eph. 4:11). Thus, the church should understand itself as a gathered community that is equipped and sent into the broader community in order to participate in God’s mission. Certainly the pastor must “preach the word” and “do the work of an evange-

2018

David Gustafson’s latest book, Gospel Witness: Evangelism in Word and Deed, will be released in February.

a preacher, theologian, bishop, and social activist, advocating for holistic Gospel ministry in word and deed. While he is best known as a Cappadocian church father who defended Nicene orthodoxy against the Arian heresy, he, more than any other of his time, showed concern for the poor and sick. Nevertheless, he regarded preaching the gospel as central to his work. Among German Pietists was August Hermann Francke (1663-1727), a Lutheran pastor and professor at Halle University. Francke combined the study of the Scriptures with charity to orphans and the poor and ministry to prisoners. In the late seventeenth century, he founded a school for the poor and an orphanage that was imitated by others over the course of the next two centuries. These institutions in particular became lasting examples of Francke’s desire to share the Gospel. He was concerned not merely with physical poverty, but also with spiritual poverty. He wrote, “For a time, I had bread distributed at my door, but then I thought this would be a chance I had hoped for, to help the poor by giving them God’s Word for their souls.” | cu

fall

CU: You write about a “Gospeling Culture.” What Bible verses are central to creating this kind of church community?

CU: Finally, who are some Christians in

DG: Basil of Caesarea (330-379) served as

CU: What are some of the keys to mis-

thinking paradigms that previously shaped Gospel proclamation and practice. Since the West is now a mission field, we must adopt a missionary stance and approach that takes seriously the shifting cultural context. Christian leaders need to rediscover redemptive analogies and identify ways to communicate the Gospel in their local contexts. The church must consider how to engage society from the margins and how to announce the good news of Jesus Christ to the world from a position of political weakness and social humility.

To engage in witness, we must equip Christ-followers to live as disciples sent by God to their neighborhoods, workplaces, and broader communities.

list,” but the emphasis is to prepare disciples and leaders who will make other disciples (2 Tim. 2:2; 4:2, 5). The inspired Scriptures are taught in order to prepare disciples for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16–17), including sharing the good news.

13

feature section | harvest time

The Early Church and Evangelism ‘A Boldness to Make Christ Known’ by dr. jerry root

Editor’s note: This article is reprinted with permission from the Institute for Strategic Evangelism at the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College.

christian union

::

the magazine

T

14

A true grasp of tradition gives a vote to the dead. This way, the wisdom of the past is not neglected and the challenges of the day benefit by such wisdom, while also being infused with fresh ideas. Bringing this kind of balance into the discussion, we must consider:

here has been no perfect period in church history. The first-century Church must not be overidealized.

• Does the early Church contribute According to theologian Walter Elwell, in the anything to today’s Church, relative New Testament epistles alone, the Church to its mission in the world? had to be corrected some 150 times. We must • What are the ways Christians in the always be careful to avoid projections and over past shared their faith in Christ, and idealizations of any time or place. can that positively affect the ways Nevertheless, the early Church still has Christians share Christ with others much to say to us today, and it is wise to today? be attentive to its lessons. There are two mistakes that can be made about traditions of the past: (1) to reject the past altogether as archaic and irrelevant and move on to questions of the present and (2) to be dominated by the past, letting the calcifying conventions of days gone by tyrannize healthy communal development.

G. K. Chesterton says a proper understanding of the past is to make some accommodation so its voice might still be heard. Every time a given age sits at the table to consider an event or challenge, it should always give a seat to the voice of the past. It is, according to Chesterton, democracy extended through Paul Preaching in Athens, by Raphael, 1515 time.

When Jesus gathered His disciples to Himself, He used one of two methods.

1. Contact Evangelism. Jesus simply came to some and called them to follow. One example of this is Matthew. There may have been an earlier relationship that existed between Matthew and Jesus, but there is no textual reference to it.

Therefore, it can be imagined that Jesus simply encountered some people and called them into relationship. Similarly, some people can be led to Christ after an initial contact. It is wise to be sensitive to how the Spirit of God may be moving in

any given conversation as He woos others to Himself through us.

2. Relational Evangelism. In John 1, Andrew went and brought his brother, Peter, to Jesus. Likewise, Phillip found his friend, Nathaniel. So too, God may have us share Christ through friendships we already have.

We must not neglect the fact that God often reaches out through established relationships in order to make Christ known in the world.

Both contact evangelism and relational evangelism have their risks. In contact evangelism, the difficulty is in trying to find natural segues for the Gospel with a person we have only just met. It is also difficult to establish credibility. On the other hand, an old friend or family member who knows our history also knows our shortcomings. This can harm our message.

We must confess personal failures and testify to the love and forgiveness of God and its ongoing power to forgive and transform.

When this occurs, even our failures can be an asset when sharing Christ.

What can we learn from the approaches employed by the early Church to reach others for Christ?

is associate director of the Institute for Strategic Evangelism at the Billy Graham Center at Wheaton College.

dr. jerry root

christianunion.org

1. They were men and women whose lives were transformed demonstrably by the love and forgiveness of Christ, and it was out of a full heart that they shared the Gospel with others. When we neglect to share Jesus with others, we might ask if a fresh rekindling of God’s love needs to be generated, so that His grace may again flow freely.

2. Early Christians, whose love burned hot for Christ, were obedient to the Great Commission. Their great desire was to tell the world about Jesus’

While no period in church history has ever had it all together, one thing can be said about the early Church: they were bold about fulfilling their calling to make Christ known to others. In this regard, they have much to tell the Church in every age. The hope for the Church in all times, whatever mistakes may be made in any period of history, is that the Body of Christ not neglect the high call of making Christ known to the world. | cu

::

• P aul talks one-on-one with others in the marketplace.

• Philip speaks with the Ethiopian eunuch whom he just met on the Gaza road.

• J esus addresses and shares the Gospel with large crowds of people.

• At the Feast of Pentecost, Peter preaches openly about Jesus in the public square.

• Paul goes to the partially-informed people gathered at the synagogue; that is, he reaches out to those with an affinity for religion, but who have not yet encountered a relationship with the living Christ.

• Paul uses letters to present the Gospel to others. (Today’s equivalent of e-mail and social networking provides ample opportunity to do something like this.)

2018

The disciples engaged in both kinds of evangelism. There is much we can learn from those who first took the Gospel to others. The Book of Acts certainly makes a case for contact evangelism:

But the Gospels and the Book of Acts speak of other kinds of evangelism, as well:

death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins. They proved themselves faithful to the call of God in their lives.

3. Whether it was to the one unknown person in a public place, to the gathering of a small group of friends and acquaintances invited to hear about Christ, or to an assembled crowd, early church members made the most of the opportunities before them.

4. Early Christians appeared to demonstrate great creativity manifest in the ways they continually sought to share the Gospel. This should inspire all who read the New Testament to look for fun and creative ways to make Christ known to others.

5. Early Christians were not willing to let fear keep them from the joy of telling others about Jesus.

fall

Learning from the Early Disciples

• C ornelius reaches out to Peter, so that Peter might share the Gospel to the entire web of family relations in Cornelius’ household.

15

16

christian union

::

the magazine

from the university to the city

Leadership Development This fall, Christian Union ministries on nine campuses engaged in a

chris tian

widely successful Freshmen Welcoming Campaign to help first-year students

union

connect to Bible courses, personal mentoring, coaching, the leadership lecture

universities

series and other events, and engaging outreach. These students will join upper-

updat e

classmen in a leadership development ministry that is seeking, by God’s grace,

page 18

to transform culture. This is at the heart of Christian Union’s work at Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Penn, Princeton, Stanford, and Yale. chris tian

as these students graduate, christian union’s ministry to its alumni and

and the Clapham Circle in the early 1800s. Pray that God will bring similar change to the U.S. as new networks of leaders emerge and engage today’s culture.

page 3 4

christianunion.org

used by the Lord to bring sweeping change to England through William Wilberforce

::

York City and Washington, D.C., their impact will be multiplied. This model was

updat e

2018

developing networks of young professionals in key cultural centers, starting in New

cities

fall

their peers—Christian Union Cities—will help them take the next step. By

union

17 Princeton students Tylor-Maria Johnson ’19 and Gabriel Joseph ’18 photo credit: cody min

christian union universities

Christian Union Caritas Ministry Begins Third Year in Silicon Valley by tom campisi, managing editor

christian union

::

the magazine

Two years ago, Christian Union expanded west by launching Caritas, a ministry to students at Stanford University.

Since 2002, Christian Union has focused on influential colleges in the Northeast, with a presence at Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Penn, Princeton, and Yale.

Impacting students in California’s Silicon Valley fits in well with the mission of developing Christian leaders to transform culture, according to Garrett Brown, Christian Union’s Director of Undergraduate Ministry at Stanford.

“There may be no more exciting environment for learning and discovery than Stanford,” said Brown. “It’s on the leading edge of significant cultural and technological shifts. Concepts like pioneering, startup, and innovation—these are all words that are part of the fabric of this region.”

18

Garrett Brown is the ministry director for Christian Union Caritas, which serves students at Stanford University.

Brown, a native of the San Francisco Bay area, has served as a church planter and pastor in the region for over 20 years. He earned a master’s of divinity degree from Talbot School of Theology, and a doctorate of ministry in Theology and Culture from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena.

Brown and his wife, Susan, have three children and live in Redwood City.

Joining Brown on the faculty are Justin Woyak, a Christian Union ministry fellow, and Jim Black, Christian Union’s Director of Athletic Ministry.

In 2009, Woyak graduated from Princeton magna cum laude with a degree in Classics. While at Princeton, he served as the student president of Christian Union’s campus ministry and then as a ministry intern for a year. In 2014, he earned a master’s of divinity from Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, where he also taught college students as an instructor in Bible and theology until 2016. Woyak and his wife, Kate, have two young daughters and a son.

“As an incoming freshman at Princeton, I never thought I would grow in my faith and leadership as much as I did,” Woyak recalled. “I learned so much in my time there about God, the Gospel, myself, and how to encourage and be encouraged by other believers. This was, in large part, because of the ministry fellows and students in Christian Union.

At Stanford, we try every day—through Bible courses, one-on-one meetings, prayer, inviting students into our homes, and other events and conferences— to give to students the kind of blessings God gave to me at Princeton. It is a constant challenge and a constant joy.”

Black was the founding ministry director of Christian Union’s ministry at Columbia University from 2011 through 2017. He completed a masters of divinity at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida, and then served as the senior pastor at Alliance Bible Church in Baytown, Texas, for nine years. Jim and his wife, Laurie, have four children.

With Christian Union Caritas, Black will focus his ministry on the discipleship of student athletes.

In 2016-17, Christian Union began its work with students at Stanford, leading in-depth Bible courses and exploring how it might serve the broader campus community. During the last academic year, 25 undergraduate students enrolled in Christian Union’s rigorous, weekly Bible courses.

With a leadership team in place, Christian Union Caritas will seek to gain recognition as a student organization.

“I’m struck by what a rich environment this is for spiritual engagement,” Brown said. “Even though young adults across the nation are leaving their churches in droves, that does not mean they are disinterested in spiritual conversation.”

“Coming into our third year working with Stanford students, we are excited about seeing more and more student ownership and leadership. Several of our ministry team leaders and members are just taking the first steps in their faith, and yet have such great capacity to lead and influence others. We’re also eager to grow in the areas of prayer and fasting—certainly new ground for a large segment of

Stanford University students (left to right) Carissa Ding, Delali Azamati, and Emily Mendonsa at Christian Union’s Nexus Conference in 2018.

Brown checked in with him and asked about the book, he lit up.

“I love it. It feels so… true!” the student said. “I need to re-read the first three chapters before I move on because I really want to understand it!”

Brown is optimistic about the future of Christian Union Caritas, while being realistic about the prayer,

christianunion.org

perseverance, and patience needed to see transformation on a secular and highly intellectual campus like Stanford.

“This can be a challenging context,” he said. “However, I am confident that Jesus Christ began this work.

He loves this campus and its students, faculty, and staff, and He will carry it to completion.” | cu

::

our students—but it is in these timeless rhythms and practices of the church where we will see our students grow.”

One of last year’s highlights, according to Brown, was meeting a freshman with no Christian background who joined a Christian Union Sex and Spirituality Bible course. The student participated in weekly discussions that unpacked God’s design for sex and the implications of living that out as young men. Over the summer, Brown gave him Tim Keller’s book, The Reason for God, to read and study. When

2018

—Garrett Brown

fall

“There may be no more exciting environment for learning and discovery than Stanford. It’s on the leading edge of significant cultural and technological shifts.”

19

christian union universities

Olympic Dreams Collins ’19 Is a Leader on Women’s Crew Team by catherine elvy, staff writer

christian union

::

the magazine

For one Princeton University senior, grueling routines are just part of pursuing her Olympic dreams.

“I’m an Olympic hopeful. There’s lots of training and hard times ahead,” said Claire Collins ’19, an accomplished rower.

20

Photo credit: Beverly Schaefer

Claire Collins ’19, an internationally accomplished rower, is moving swiftly toward her Olympic dreams.

In July, Collins ’19 helped the United States capture the 2018 World Rowing Under 23 Championship in Poland. Overall, the United States team took home eight medals. Collins helped the United States to clock a 6:08.04 in the women’s eight, 0.19 seconds ahead of the United Kingdom for the bronze medal.

After graduation, Collins plans to train with USRowing, a non-profit organization recognized by the United States Olympic Committee as the

governing body for crew in the United States. Based in Princeton, USRowing selects and manages the American teams that compete in world championships, Pan American Games, and the Olympics.

Just as Collins is committed to rigorous training to excel in her sport of seven years, the Virginia native also is equally dedicated to living out her Christian faith in the classroom and boathouse. A key part of that commitment involves regular participation in her weekly Bible Course hosted by Christian Union.

“It’s a very important part of Christianity, just being connected to His Word and community,” said Collins. “We delve into Scripture. We break it down verse by verse… I’ve come closer to Christ.”

As a freshman, Collins became active in Christian Union’s ministry at Princeton, including Bible courses under the helm of Katie Fields, the manager of Christian Union’s Melrose Center and the wife of Ministry Director James Fields. Such discipleship helped Collins to reflect on her relationship with Jesus Christ as she propels through the challenges of being a standout student-athlete.

“I’m with my teammates a lot. It’s an incredibly team-oriented sport.” But initially, she said, “I wasn’t comfortable with bringing up faith,” said Collins.

Today, “I have many more conversations with friends.”

Now, as an incoming co-captain of the women’s crew team at Princeton, Collins hopes to steer her teammates to ponder some of life’s bigger perspectives and to be mindful of the ultimate source of individual worth. “God has a plan,” said Collins.

While crew may appear to be an effortless, fluid sport, it involves mixes of agony, adrenaline, and sportsmanship. Champion rowers note the sport is one of the few where perseverance can eclipse natural talent. Likewise, teammates bond in the boat as they pull together for power, synchronicity, and sprint.

As a sophomore at Princeton, Collins learned a series of lessons after breaking a rib following high-intensity training. “It’s a very grueling sport,” she said.

Given that, Collins hopes to offer a safe harbor for

teammates and classmates to ask life’s tough questions.

On top of exhausting practice and course loads, plus regatta schedules that involve globetrotting, Collins also serves as vice president of Princeton’s Varsity Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.

James Fields called Collins a blessing and a true leader. “Her love for Jesus is obvious, and it is contagious,” he said. “I have no doubt that God will use Claire to evoke transformative change for His glory within our society and beyond.”

At Princeton, Collins follows in Claire Collins ’19 the footsteps of her grandfather and great-grandfather. Farnham F. Collins, Princeton ’57, is an asset manager and governor and president of the Millbrook Hunt, one of the premier equestrian organizations in North America. The late John

In high school, Collins served as captain of Deerfield Academy’s crew, swimming, and volleyball teams before being heavily recruited among colleges for her rowing prowess. She “found a little bit of natural talent in the rowing realm.”

“The people who do the sport are pretty neat,” she said. “It’s always a learning process. It’s beautiful to be out on the water every day.”

After her athletic career, Collins hopes to pursue a vocation in food manufacturing. In her spare moments, the avid baker enjoys whipping up batches of chocolate-chip cookies, rustic bread, and croissants.

Fortunately for Collins, rowers are known for sustaining their endurance through heavyweight caloric intake, especially before regattas.

As she looks ahead to her dream of competing

Just as Collins is committed to rigorous training to excel in her sport of seven years, the Virginia native also is equally dedicated to living out her Christian faith in the classroom and boathouse. A key part of that commitment involves regular participation in her weekly Bible Course hosted by Christian Union.

2018 :: christianunion.org

in Tokyo in 2020, Collins paused to express gratitude for the blessings of her Olympic aspirations and the spiritual support behind her influence and success.

“God has really given me these talents and a healthy body. He’s pushing me in a direction where I have been able to interact with incredible people across the country and world,” she said. “It’s been quite a ride so far.” | cu

fall

D. Archbold, Princeton ’34, was a philanthropist, businessman, and trustee emeritus of Syracuse University.

Among her extensive credentials, Collins won silver at the 2017 World Rowing Under 23 Championships in the women’s eight. As well, she triumphed in the varsity eight at the Ivy League Championships in 2016, 2017, and 2018.

Collins discovered crew during March of her freshman year of high school. A few months later, she landed a spot on USRowing’s Under 19 National Team.

“I had an unusual ascent,” she said.

21

christian union universities

Summer of Service Christian Union Students Minister in U.S. and Abroad by francine barchett, cornell

’20

build up those who felt unworthy and unseen,” she asserted, recollecting conversations with campers who were battling addictions, depression, and loneliness.

Leaving camp at the end of the summer, Simoni felt more grounded in her own faith. “God worked in me to restore a steadfastness and trust in Him that I had slowly lost over the school year,” she said.

At Kanakuk Kamps in Branson, Missouri, Lee assumed a counselor position for six to 12-year-old children. Since he had been a camper at Kanakuk Kamps for eight years, and “loved every minute there,” becoming a counselor seemed an obvious choice. Lee also desired to become a role model for campers, just as his past counselors had done for him.

Among his most spiritually rewarding moments were explaining the eternal goodness and faithfulness of God the Father to a young man who never had a father figure and helping to mend a relationship of brothers by encouraging them to sharpen, love, and set examples for each other. Lee was impressed with “the Lord’s willingness to equip Sophia Jeon ’21 served at the El Porvenir Primaria school in Mexico this summer. broken vessels, such as me, and His faithfulness to grow our next generation of leaders.”

Sophomore Sophia Jeon ’21 brought her art supto do the same,” said Geoff Sackett, Christian Union’s plies all the way to the state of Baja California in ministry director at Cornell. “Our prayer, as a faculMexico to illustrate Christ’s love. As an art teaching ty, is that our students will grasp something of Jesus’ assistant, Jeon worked with 11 to 13-year-olds at El sacrificial life and implement it in their own.”

Porvenir Primaria in the town of San Telmo. “Art is Sophomores Olivia Simoni and Ji-Ho Lee both not just an extracurricular activity there,” Sophia emworked at summer camps, but in different capacities. phasized. “Even the [most difficult students] would At JH Ranch in Etna, California, Simoni took on a write the Bible verse of the day in pencil first and behind-the-scenes role in the kitchen, where she draw borders around it in order to perfect their sketch“learned what real servanthood and humility look books.” Although Sophia’s service work became quite like.” Although she admits that kitchen workers stood taxing, she discovered that her moments of weakness less in the limelight than other positions, Simoni and vulnerability always steered toward a greater purconsiders the impact of her stay far from inconsepose, making God more real and active in her life. quential. “God worked through me to encourage and

christian union

::

the magazine

It would be hard not to find a Cornell student who longs for a relaxing summer vacation. Instead, social and career pressures often compel them to pursue summer internships, research, and more “notable” experiences. Several students with Christian Union at Cornell, however, bypassed resume-building this summer in favor of serving at Christian camps and on missions trips.

“The Lord Jesus walked the road of service and sacrifice the entirety of His life, and calls His disciples

22

“Mexico missions deepened my understanding of the power of the cross and that God loves me regardless of the work that I produce,” Jeon reflected.

Christian Union’s influence also spread to Mawanga, Uganda, where Kelly Jawork ’21 and intern Hannah Dorpfeld ’17 worked alongside Rural Orphans and Widows Aids Network (ROWAN) as part of the ministry’s annual missions trip.

For Jawork, the venture instigated more than just culture shock, it also tested her faith (Left to right) Penn Ministry Fellow Kelly Schaaf, Ugandan partner Aidah Nambozo, Hannah in God’s provision. Leading up Dorpfeld, Cornell ’17, and Kelly Jawork, Cornell ’21, in Mawanga, Uganda to the trip, a stress fracture in her tibia brought her track and As Hannah jumpstarts her second year as Christian field season to a staggering halt, and only a week Union’s intern, she looks forward to facilitating enbefore leaving could she even walk. From interacthanced student community. ing with the ROWAN community, Jawork’s trust And do does Sackett, who was impressed with in God sharpened. The trip also inspired her to

“The Lord Jesus walked the road of service and sacrifice the entirety of His life, and calls His disciples to do the same. Our prayer, as a staff, is that our students will grasp something of Jesus’ sacrificial life and implement it in their own.”

:: christianunion.org

these students and others from Christian Union who served as well over the summer.

“What you see in them is an expression of their service to Christ and to others,” he said. “It is sometimes a difficult calling, but one also filled with great joy.” | cu

2018

adjust her priorities as she tackles Christian Union’s community service team leadership position this year.

Dorpfeld, who has been on three ROWAN trips, also came home with important takeaways. “I felt healed from the States’ culture of comparison and individualistic competition,” she reveals. “In ROWAN’s community, I found myself feeling part of their greater whole and looking at where my giftings could best be used for the betterment of everyone.”

fall

—Geoff Sackett, Christian Union’s ministry director at Cornell

23

christian union universities

Good News For Freshmen Christian Union at Yale Enjoys Fruitful Welcoming Campaign by tom campisi, managing editor

Josh Purtell ’21, a co-leader on the outreach team, also connected with Christian Union as a freshman through its annual Block Party.

“We decided to give away the Gospel of Luke because we felt that the beginning of the semester was a time when freshmen would be particularly open-minded and willing to have their worldview challenged,” said Purtell. “We think that the Gospel of Luke is an effective introduction to the Good News, and one that is both short and plainly written enough to reach a wide audience.”

“The Gospel went forth to over 1,500 first-years,” said Li.

Christian Union at Yale distributed a bag of snacks and copies of the Gospel of Luke to all freshmen dorms this fall.

christian union

::

the magazine

Jin Li, a sophomore psychology major, knows firsthand how important it is for campus ministries to reach out to freshmen.

It wasn’t that long ago that Li arrived on Yale’s campus in New Haven, Connecticut, and was quickly welcomed by a Christian Union ministry fellow and student leader.

“I connected with Christian Union at Yale through an ice cream social event on Cross Campus just a few days after I moved in,” recalled Li. Li became active in Christian Union Bible Courses and has emerged as a co-leader of the ministry’s outreach team. The Queens, New York native helped

24

coordinate Christian Union’s Freshman Welcoming Campaign at the beginning of the semester. One of the highlights was the distribution of 1,500 Gospel of Luke booklets to all incoming freshmen. Members of the outreach team hand-delivered the welcoming packages, which also included snacks and information about Christian Union, to all the freshman dorms.

The Gospel went forth thanks to a team of 15 students who spent several hours canvassing the dorms, climbing stairs, and visiting each room and suite.

“It was overwhelming, yet invigorating; seeing their joy, gratitude, and curiosity about who we were and why we were doing it reminded us of our larger mission,” Li said.

“The mission of the outreach was to spread the love and truth of Jesus Christ on this campus, as we are called to do, and to let the first-years know that there is a Christian ministry and community on campus ready to welcome them with open arms, regardless of where they are in their faith journey.”

Clay Cromer, Christian Union’s ministry director at Yale, said the outreach is a tangible way to share the love of Jesus Christ with the class of 2022.

“When you consider the myriad of syllabi, new books, information pamphlets, and flyers, not to mention all the e-mails and e-newsletters that are flooding their inboxes, the Gospel of Luke giveaway will rank as the most important literature received

welcoming campaign yielded some immediate fruit as 65 freshmen signed up for Christian Union Bible Courses, which focus on the book of Hebrews in the fall semester. One freshman thanked God that Christian Union “provides a space to study the Word of God in this way.”

“After we finished the first lesson, he encouraged the rest of the guys to go hard after Christ in this journey,” recalled Cromer.

These freshmen, along with returning upperclassmen who are enrolled in Bible courses, will also have an opportunity to participate in Christian Union’s Rooted leadership lecture series each week, conferences, “Family Dinners” in the dining halls,

“The mission of the outreach was to spread the love and truth of Jesus Christ on this campus, as we are called to do, and to let the first-years know that there is a Christian ministry and community on campus ready to welcome them with open arms, regardless of where they are in their faith journey.”

—Jin Li, Yale ’21

2018 :: christianunion.org

and one-on-one discipleship meetings with ministry fellows.

“This year’s freshman campaign really took flight on the leadership of the student leaders and gatherers,” said Cromer. “We had record numbers (and record temperatures) at our ice cream social on Cross Campus this year. At all of our events, and in the hundreds of student meetings in between, we’re really aiming to make the hospitality of God explicit in the way we take a lavish and loving initiative to welcome new students.” | cu

fall

during their initial weeks on campus,” Cromer said.

Purtell, a math major from Beaver, Pennsylvania, is also hopeful that these freshmen will have “an opportunity to choose the Truth.”

“Often, students insulate themselves from the truth in their social and academic circles because it is easier to do at first. Over time, a lot of people develop an intuition that there is something more...

By bringing the Gospel to the campus community, we can show people God’s will for humanity in an audience-appropriate manner and allow them to discover the Truth.”

Included in the welcoming packages were invitations to Christian Union’s block party, which was held at its ministry center. The block party, one of several welcoming events, featured a menu of Chickfil-A sandwiches and Moe’s burritos.

The prayer, hard work, and zeal of the freshman

25

christian union universities

Friday Night Lights Freshman Welcoming Campaign Attracts a Crowd

christian union

::

the magazine

by tom campisi, managing editor

26

caught up in that scene,” said Copp.

At the start of the fall semester, Christian In addition to the burger outreach at Wayland Union at Brown’s faculty wanted to exArch, Christian Union at Brown also hosted other tend its Freshman Welcoming Campaign welcoming events, including “Chick-Fil-A and Lawn beyond students who would typically attend a Bible Games” and a “Chipotle Block Party.” The ministry course or leadership lecture series. also launched its weekly Anchor leadership lecture To reach a “festive” demographic late on a Friday series and Bible courses. On night, Ministry Fellows JusOctober 5-7, Brown Christin Doyle and Laurel Copp, tian Union’s fall conference Intern Gianna Uson, and was held at Lakeside Chrisstudent leaders brought tian Retreat Center in Pittsgrills and burgers to Wayfield, Massachusetts. Doyle, land Arch, which is located Copp, and Matt Woodard, between Frat Row and a Christian Union’s ministry freshman dorm quad. Chrisdirector at Brown, shared tian Union at Brown set up messages around the theme, camp in the midst of party“Until We Find Our Rest in ing students, handing out You.” about 150 sliders and bottles Jose Reyes, a senior from of water.

El Paso, Texas, who is con“By the time the first centrating in neurobiology, sliders were finished grilling, was a key member of the they were in the hands of Freshman Welcoming Camhungry students,” Doyle paign. One of the highlights, said. “The students were he said, was the opportunithankful for this practical Jenasis Ortega, Brown ’21, enjoyed serving ty to mentor a freshman act of love and many took during the Freshmen Welcoming Campaign. student. note of who we were. We “Discipleship is extremehad several conversations ly important in our community, and fostering a about why we were out there on a Friday night, and close relationship with someone is something that how our faith in Jesus compels us to love and serve I really enjoy,” he said. “As a freshman, I was lost our friends and neighbors.” and overwhelmed, and I would have liked to have In addition to providing a tangible witness and had an upperclassman ask me how I was doing and feeding hungry and thirsty passersby, the outreach offer advice.” also let students know that there was a viable alterJenasis Ortega, a sophomore, was also grateful native to the party scene. One student, who was to be part of the campaign. The computer science visibly drunk, exclaimed, “I should go to church.” major from Eagle Mountain, Utah was impressed She soon disappeared into a crowd, but visited Chriswith the strategic planning and organization. tian Union’s table later in the semester. Another “It made me more appreciative of the investment student, also very intoxicated, actually ended up that the leaders and ministry fellows in Christian going to church with members of Christian Union Union are making in the lives of the students here about a week later. on campus,” she said. “The idea that we should make “We encountered so many students who are

other people feel comfortable, even if it means making ourselves uncomfortable, is something that has stuck with me. Overall, it’s been great to see how the ministry fellows and other leaders purpose to serve those around them. Their examples continually inspire me to do the same.”

Ortega is now welcoming freshmen in the same manner she was welcomed last year by ministry fellows.

“One of the biggest ways in which Christian Union has helped develop my leadership skills has been through the everyday interactions I’ve had with the other leaders and the ministry fellows,” she said.

Reyes is also thankful for the leadership development training he has received through Christian Union at Brown. He helps coordinate the ministry’s leadership lecture series.

“Christian Union has allowed me to grow in my leadership skills by providing me with a position

that not only involves planning leadership lecture series events, but is focused on discipleship. Planning a weekly general body meeting has taught me orga-

In addition to providing a tangible witness and feeding hungry and thirsty passersby, the outreach also let students know that there was a viable alternative to the party scene. One student, who was visibly drunk, exclaimed, “I should go to church.” nizational skills and trained me in problem-solving skills,” Reyes said.

“Overall, Christian Union has provided me with the support and guidance that have shown me how a Christian should lead.” | cu

.................................................................................

Summer Book Study Students Encounter The Prodigal God by catherine elvy, staff writer

2018 :: christianunion.org

to offer ministry to students taking summer courses and working in local internships.

Under the leadership of Ministry Director Tucker Else, students and ministry faculty also incorporated social activities, including a barbeque, throughout the summer season.

Among students, Cassandra Jobman ’21 was struck during the sessions by the overall heart of God toward His wandering children. The study of The Prodigal God helped Jobman to

fall

The parable of the Prodigal Son points to distinct forms of spiritual lostness, one marked by wanton sinfulness and another by self-righteousness, and reveals the lavish grace of God in redeeming them both.

These insights emerged when students involved with Christian Union’s ministry at the University of Pennsylvania spent a portion of their summer probing The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith, by Tim Keller. In the 2008 book, Keller highlights how Christ provides the answer to lifestyles ensnared by immorality, as well as the hidden traps of hypocritical religiosity.

The Penn undergraduates gathered on eight occasions as part of Christian Union’s ongoing efforts

27

christian union universities

connect with “the Father who loves us, both when we are running away from Him in shame and when we struggle with legalistic pride.”

For students who take summer courses or stay in Philadelphia for internship opportunities, Keller’s book provided a fresh look at the well-known parable found in Luke 15:11-32.

The Penn undergraduates gathered on eight occasions as part of Christian Union’s ongoing efforts to offer ministry to students taking summer courses and working in local internships.

christian union

::

the magazine

“Keller always gives an intellectual approach to a study,” said Else.

The Prodigal Son story reflects how much the Heavenly Father is excited to welcome back wayward children, Else said. According to Keller, the account particularly showcases the need for believers to engage in spiritual self-assessment.

Keller is a best-selling author, noted apologist, and the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City. His books include: The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism and Counterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters. In Prodigal God, Keller wants readers to know that the Lord actively reaches out to His children, both those who feel far from God and those who feel self-satisfied in their moralism.”

“You’ll never seek God unless He first seeks you,” wrote Keller.

Jude Dartey ’21 noted his participation in the seasonal study of Prodigal God was deeply satisfying and raised thought-provoking questions about his daily life and efforts to glorify the Lord. “Claiming to be a Christian is the easy part of Christianity, but the work truly comes in when you are aware of your everyday doings and you are always looking for ways to glorify God with your being,” said Dartey.

“This Bible study session introduced me to the idea of glorifying God.” | cu

28

Photo credit: Cody Min

Students at the University of Pennsylvania

A Heart for Serving Neighbors Schroen ’19 Is a Leader with Habitat for Humanity by catherine elvy, staff writer

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

A Dartmouth College senior is doing his Carlisle noted that Schroen “adds an objective part to help build the kingdom of God voice to our community.” in the Upper Valley.

“His depth of thinking and his candor will serve Peter Schroen ’19 helps coordinate Dartmouth’s him well.” student chapter of Habitat for Humanity InternaSchroen also has enhanced his skills at commutional and is a leader with Christian Union. nicating the Gospel on campus and beyond.

When he arrived at Dartmouth three years ago, he “A lot of that is attributable to mentors and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, exhibiting friends I’ve had in Christian Union,” he said. the same servant’s heart he had Such abilities also have when he attended McQuaid Jesuequipped the Rochester native as it High School in Rochester, New he seeks to construct God’s kingYork. dom in practical ways, including “It is a rewarding way to serve through his service on the execpeople,” said Schroen. “You get utive team for Dartmouth’s stuto meet them and see how you dent affiliate of Habitat for are tangibly improving their Humanity. lives.”

Over the last 30 years, the In addition to focusing upon student chapter has built 33 the practical needs of neighbors, homes and handled countless Schroen also is actively helping critical repairs, including some to bolster Dartmouth’s Christian after Hurricane Irene weakened community. to a tropical storm, but still batAs the director of operations tered parts of New England in for Christian Union’s ministry to 2011.

Peter Schroen ’19 is helping coordinate Dartmouth students, Schroen Dartmouth College’s chapter of Habitat Likewise, the the government helps to plan events, coordinate for Humanity International and also and biology major especially is outreach to freshmen, and deter- serves as director of operations excited about a project the Upper mine the organization’s strategic for Christian Union’s ministry to Valley Habitat began in July to goals. “I’ve grown in my leader- undergraduates. construct a single-family home in ship capacity,” he said. nearby Sharon, Vermont for a Chase Carlisle, a Christian family with three young children.

Union ministry fellow at Dartmouth, is especially In 2015, the organization also launched a program to appreciative of Schroen’s commitment. help a struggling, inner-city neighborhood in Clare“One of the things that struck me early – and mont, New Hampshire, by providing aid with urgent that makes him stand out even from among his peers repairs and small renovations.

– is how faithful and reliable he is,” Carlisle said. “If “I do like working with my hands,” said Schroen.

Peter says he will do something, it will get done.”

“There is a lot of important work to be done.”

While he grew up in a Christian household, During high school, Schroen volunteered with Schroen did not actively exhibit ownership of his Flower City Work Camp, a ministry that utilizes faith until college. He paused to credit his involvement Rochester churches to deliver a range of services, with Bible courses for expanding his faith, fluency in including home repairs, sports camps, children’s apologetics, and capacity for critical thinking. activities, and yard work.

29

christian union universities

As for his executive role with a student chapter of Habitat for Humanity, it involves scheduling volunteer days, transporting students to build sites, raising awareness of housing issues, and fundraising.

Dartmouth students volunteer with the Upper Valley Habitat at least two weekends per quarter.

In the future, Schroen plans to combine his studies in biology and government in a career in the patents arena. During the summer, he interned with a law firm in the San Francisco Bay area that specializes in intellectual property. After graduation, Schroen plans to return to the firm, eventually attend law school, and develop an expertise in biological intellectual property.

“You’re always on the cutting edge,” he said. “I know I want to go into this field.”

As well, Schroen is interested in playing a leadership role in the emerging field of Christian bio-

ethics, especially in regard to emerging biological technologies and inventions.

For now, when he is not hitting nails or the books, Schroen enjoys spending time in the outdoors.

He recently led a backpacking trip for incoming Dartmouth freshmen. As well, the multitalented athlete participates in the men’s club volleyball team at Dartmouth.

Still, Schroen is most excited about using his tool kits and talents to help construct God’s kingdom, passions he attributes to mentoring from Christian Union. “I’ve grown a lot personally and relationally,” he said. “It’s been very valuable.”

Carlisle echoed those comments. “He has definitely put the effort into cultivating and deepening his relationship with Christ,” Carlisle said. “He’s a good brother and friend.” | cu

.................................................................................

Zooming In Carey ’19 Seeks to Produce Faith-Based Films

christian union

::

the magazine

by catherine elvy, staff writer

30

A Harvard College senior hopes to combine his passions for storytelling and missions to create a vibrant cinematic platform with wide crossover appeal.

Nick Carey, ’19, who serves as a student leader of Harvard College Faith and Action (a student organization resourced by Christian Union), plans to use his drive and talents to pursue a career in the film industry. “If you tell stories effectively enough, movies can reach a lot of people,” he said. “It can be a very powerful missionary tool.”

Carey seeks to work as a creative executive or producer in film or television development and carve a niche within faith-based entertainment.

During the summer, Carey interned with Rideback, a film and television production company based at Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. In January 2018, he participated in Harvardwood 101, a career exploration program in Southern California for Harvard undergraduates.

Much of Carey’s desire to labor in the entertainment industry is rooted in his longtime love of missions. The film studies concentrator in Harvard’s Visual and Environmental Studies department also is pursuing a secondary focus on religion.

Upon arriving at Harvard, the Pittsburgh native was pleased to discover mentors and a dynamic faith community via Harvard College Faith and Action.

“I was drawn to the people there,” said Carey. “HCFA has provided me with a foundation and connections from which I can pursue my vocational endeavors in faith-based filmmaking.”

While at Harvard, Carey has taken part in two missionary efforts, including a trip over spring break with Christian Union to hurricane-ravaged Puerto Rico. There, the multitalented student-athlete helped with repairs and chores.

Christian Union Ministry Fellow Fady Ghobrial expressed gratitude to Carey for demonstrating tangible leadership during the ministry’s journey to

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

United World College from January 2013 to NoPuerto Rico. “He was helpful and insightful in devember 2014. “It was the experience of a lifetime. cision making during the trip and in taking responThis was a great opportunity to do some traveling sibility for driving our big, 17-passenger van during and see the world in a different way.” long rides to the elementary school we were renoAmong his service efforts in Africa, Carey assistvating,” Ghobrial said. ed in the development of Such efforts are not a peer-counseling prosurprising considering gram for orphans. The Carey’s passion for misformer high school footsionary service, a reflecball player also developed tion of his decision to a passion for rugby. Carembrace Christ as his ey, who is 6-foot-2 and personal savior during his weighs 225 pounds, youth. serves as president of the “Eventually, I realized Harvard Rugby Football I had to answer the big Club. questions,” he said. “It In June, Carey won became more and more Penn Mutual’s Life of clear that Christianity Significance Award held the answers.” during the Collegiate During middle and Rugby Championships. high school, Carey particHarvard rugby coach ipated in six missionary Nick Carey ’19 wants to pursue a a career behind the Michael Diamantopoutreks across the country scenes in the film industry, especially in faith-based los readily described Carwith North Park Church entertainment. ey as a young man who of Allegheny County, is devoted to a life of Pennsylvania. service and leadership. “His dedication to being a He also has volunteered with Meals on Wheels team member while also helping others is what the and participated in walks for multiple sclerosis, a sport of rugby is all about,” Diamantopoulos told disease his mother has battled since his childhood. the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Additionally, Carey assisted with North Park Regardless of whether his career trajectory and Church’s ministry for college students and mentored missionary pursuits take him to Hollywood or Afthe high school youth group during trips back home rica, Carey simply wants to follow his life’s passion to Pittsburgh. of spreading the Gospel message.

In a monumentis decision, Carey left Pennsyl“I want to be able to fulfill that desire through vania’s Shayer Area High School—where he played storytelling,” he said. | cu football, wrestled, and ran track—to complete his high school degree in eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) after being offered a two-year scholarship to study at Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa (a high school program).

Carey’s venture paid off better than expected.

The adventurous youth only applied to one college, and Harvard offered an early acceptance. In fall 2015, he matriculated into Harvard after a break from high-school studies.

“It was a very competitive program,” said Carey of his educational stint at Waterford Kamhlaba

31

christian union universities

Building Community on Campus Christian Union Launches Freshman Welcoming Campaign by catherine elvy, staff writer

Students involved with Christian Union’s ministry at Columbia University were energized as they prepared to reach out to members of the class of 2022.

The theme for this year’s freshman welcoming campaign centered upon spiritual kinship. The ministry greeted incoming students with the intent of offering “community for the sake of others,” said

christian union

::

the magazine

Student leaders in Christian Union’s ministry at Columbia University greeted members of the class of 2022 as they arrived on campus.

32

Ministry Director Lane Young. “What brings us together is Jesus.”

In preparation, student leaders read Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community.

While teaching at an underground seminary in Nazi Germany, theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote the book to offer practical advice on how families and groups can sustain life together in Christ.

As a result, student leaders buzzed with excitement as they shared with arriving frosh about Christian Union’s plan to debut a ministry center at 529 West 113th Street. “The building allows us to feel part of a larger community,” said Young of the historic building in Morningside Heights. “It really is unique. There is no space at all at Columbia like this.”

Multiple Bible courses meeting in a single location and a central place for corporate prayer and fasting also will help promote a sense of camaraderie among students, Young said.

Until now, a lack of dedicated space for ministry also has hindered efforts to fully fuel a seeking God lifestyle among students. “It’s been hard to gain momentum for prayer,” said Young. “We’re very excited to see how prayer and fasting can change that.”

In preparation for the freshman outreach, about 25 students involved in Christian Union’s ministry participated in a planning retreat from August 23 to 26 at Camp-of-the-Woods in Speculator, New York. Christian Union took the “freshman gatherers” to the scenic retreat center for a time of prayer, teaching, worship, and strategic planning.

“It’s pivotal that we alert any incoming Christians to the fact that they have a home already waiting for them,” said Nathaniel Wyatt ’20, vice president of Christian Union at Columbia. “Christian Union is an oasis.”

Before the close of the 2017-18 academic year, upperclassmen participated in lunchtime training sessions to help them orchestrate the plans for the ministry’s freshman outreach.

The freshman welcoming campaign kicked off on August 27 with a full lineup of engaging activities, including a midnight pancake outreach, a Chickfil-A distribution in the heart of campus, a gathering at an uptown board game café, and pickup basketball at Dodge Fitness Center.

Christian Union at Columbia hosted its annual Labor Day weekend picnic at Riverside Park, a designated scenic landmark in the City of New York.

As well, ministry fellows took turns speaking at the ministry’s weekly leadership lecture series, Illumina, when it resumed for the fall semester.

“For the campaign, we are seeking to love the freshmen,” said Yolanda Solomon, a Christian Union ministry fellow. “It’s an opportunity to welcome freshmen during a very formative time and to show them the love of Christ.” | cu

See Your Future as a Calling Through a curriculum designed by the late,

School of Public Policy alumni

great Harvard professor James Q. Wilson

exemplify our cross-sector

more than two decades ago, the School of

leadership focus:

Public Policy follows a unique liberal arts

u 36% private sector

approach to prepare cross-sector public

u 24% nonprofits/NGOs/foundations

leaders to solve today’s toughest policy challenges. Based at one of America’s

u 18% government service (local to federal)

leading Christian universities, our graduates

u 10% postgraduate/doctoral studies

employ rigorous policy-analysis skills supported by considerations of history, philosophy, and their own moral sense.

See Your Future Differently from Here PUBLICPOLICY.PEPPERDINE.EDU/MASTERS-4

christian union cities

Engaging through Volunteering Christian Union Panel Discussion Focuses on Reconciliation by catherine elvy, staff writer

D

christian union

::

the magazine

rew Griffin, the managing editor of Providence: A Journal of Christianity & American Foreign Policy, highlighted the critical role believers play in fostering redemption, reconciliation, and transformation within their spheres of influence when he appeared at a Christian Union New York forum this summer.

Griffin moderated a panel of non-profit leaders who took part in an event entitled Mission to the City: Engaging through Volunteering.

About 55 people attended the forum, held at the

34

Scandinavia House on Park Avenue in Manhattan.

In addition to Griffin, panelists included: Taylor Becker, Penn ’17 (a volunteer with East Harlem Tutorial Program); Jason Nong, Princeton ’15 (Opportunity Music Project); Hilary Awad (Fellowship of Christians in Universities and Schools); Lauren Culbertson (Restore NYC); and Jonathan Roberts (The Bowery Mission). Following the discussion, Christian Union invited participants to volunteer to help serve breakfast on behalf of The Father’s Heart Ministries on the Lower East Side.

“Christians are supposed to be an aroma of life and light to their communities,” said Griffin.

Among panelists, Becker said young professionals have a responsibility to use their God-given time, talents, and treasure to enrich their surrounding communities and the lives of their neighbors. As such, Becker serves as a junior board member for East Harlem Tutorial Program. “I volunteer because I believe that ensuring equal access to a quality education, in particular getting to and through college, is necessary in order to address social inequality,” said Becker, an analyst for The Blackstone Group.

“We’re called to serve and give to others as we have been served and given,” said Nong, who volunteers with Bowery Mission in addition to the Opportunity Music Project. “Young professionals should experiment with different ways of volunteering and discover what they enjoy. There are so many organizations out there that need people involved in any number of ways.”

Ultimately, the volunteer becomes the receiver. “Volunteering helps you take a step back Drew Griffin, managing editor of Providence: A Journal of Christianity & and develop an appreciation for the gifts that American Foreign Policy, led a panel discussion on volunteering for Christian you already have been given,” said Nong.

Union New York.

Griffin pointed to the words of the Apostle

Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:18, “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to Himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

Believers should be ambassadors of reconciliation, especially across New York’s diverse, populous neighborhoods.

“Restoration should be what motivates us. We should see things that are broken and want to fix them. It should drive us to seek opportunities.”

—Drew Griffin

D O N’ T M ISS

christianunion.org

Subscribe today: ChristianUnion.org/Subscribe

::

Enjoy thoughtful articles from around the web, plus updates from Christian Union.

2018

Christian Union’s eNewsletter.

Delivered to your e-mail inbox every other week.

fall

“Restoration should be what motivates us,” said Griffin. “We should see things that are broken and want to fix them. It should drive us to seek opportunities.”

Such insights dovetail with Christian Union’s vision to expand God’s kingdom within influential cities, including New York City.

“As Christians, we are called to transformation,” said Scott Crosby, ministry director of Christian Union New York. “It is rooted in our identity as people made in the image of God and tasked with mediating God’s rule and blessing in a broken world.”

Christian Union offers many leadership development opportunities and other resources to professionals in New York City and Washington, D.C. The ministry aims to provide leaders, especially young professionals, with various forums, lectures, conferences, Bible courses, and networking opportunities.

At the recent forum, Griffin exhorted professionals to engage, both in their vocational spheres and in their neighborhoods. At a practical level, such devotion may mean stepping up to assist with community repairs, maintenance and improvements, Griffin told his audience. For example, believers can help to clean and spruce up neighborhood parks. “Parks are the front yards of the city,” the former pastor said.

As for vocational endeavors, Christ’s followers who labor in finance, education, the arts, and other pivotal enterprises can leave imprints upon such realms. Many such arenas present opportunities for redemption. All of creation cries out to be “restored to its former glory before the fall,” said Griffin.

Indeed, the Bible poignantly reflects God’s desire to reconcile men and women to Himself, to restore relationships, and to foster flourishing communities. In Ephesians 2:22, Paul noted, “In Him, you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.”

Modern believers should reflect Christ’s ministry of reconciliation as they encounter a spectrum of individuals, whether unabashedly self-assured or downtrodden. “In the city, we encounter people who are hopeless,” said Griffin.

Notably, Jesus made a point of ministering to the downcast and alienated of society. “In the city, we encounter people who are hopeless,” said Griffin.

God is the initiator of reconciliation, but believers are His representatives to their neighbors. Ultimately, believers should be motivated to “find and celebrate the image of God in others,” Griffin said. | cu

35

stewardship news

Alumni Engagement by brian calderone

C

• A dvance the ongoing work on campus to spread the Gospel through active alumni boards, campus events, and financial support.

• Provide graduates with mentors and local welcome events to help them connect with a church and a Christian community post-graduation.

• Develop Christian leaders through local Christian Union Cities chapters, stimulating fellows programs, educational resources, and career opportunities.

• Ultimately, seek to bring real culture change and a much needed spiritual revival to our nation through prayer and spiritual discipline.

Alumni are encouraged to join the Christian Union group on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/ groups/12144800) to connect with each other, stay informed, and explore career opportunities.

Alumni will be better informed of programs, events, prayer needs, and service opportunities through an alumni e-newsletter and an alumni section in this magazine. Alumni boards are being formed for each university to help advance the work on campus, and alumni “Cities” groups will be formed soon in key markets with local events and programs. Alumni will enjoy serving as mentors to help transition new graduates well, participating in a new CU fellows program to develop their Christian leadership, or giving back financially to their campus ministry.

Meghan and I are excited about the future of alumni engagement at Christian Union. We look forward to developing and supporting these programs that help achieve our key objectives. Please join us in praying for these efforts. Reach out to either of us with any questions, or if you are interested in joining an alumni board or serving in any capacity. | cu

Brian Calderone

Vice President of Alumni Engagement Brian.Calderone@ChristianUnion.org

christian union

::

the magazine

ongratulations to the graduates from the class of 2018!

With over 550 graduates from the class of 2018 making the transition from students to alumni, the Christian Union alumni population has hit a new milestone and surpassed 2,200! This group will continue to grow exponentially in the coming years as more Christian Union students graduate. Christian Union is committing additional resources to support our growing alumni population with more staff, new communication tools, local programs in key cities, service opportunities, and much more.

I am honored to join the Christian Union team to lead these initiatives as the Vice President of Alumni Engagement. I join Meghan Foley, our Director of Alumni Engagement, and together we are solely focused on the four core objectives of alumni engagement:

36

Meghan Foley Director of Alumni Engagement Meghan.Foley@ChristianUnion.org

christian union day and night

Fasting for Cultural Revolution by whit hazelton

T

aking a cue from the many men and women of Scripture and church history who practiced the spiritual discipline of fasting, Christian Union led a national 21-day fast that started on August 13, 2018.

More than 2,000 Christians from across the United States signed up online to participate in the fast, which was organized by Christian Union’s online ministry, Christian Union Day and Night, and focused on the theme “Fasting for Cultural Revolution.”

Each participant received a daily encouragement e-mail during the fast, featuring a devotional written by a member of Christian Union’s faculty or staff.

The devotionals gave direction to praying and fasting for God to transform seven important sectors of society for His glory: arts and entertainment, business, education, family, government, media, and the Church. Through the devotionals, Christians were encouraged to bring their concerns about American society before God and to consider ways we, as the church, might play a role in bringing about cultural change.

Many shared that the experience of fasting helped them draw nearer to the Lord.

One week into the fast, Laura K., a participant from Texas wrote:

for a period of time to seek God. Biblical fasting does not include denying oneself other things, such as TV, social media, or items besides food. While it can be good to practice self-denial in such ways, the fasting practiced by Moses, Nehemiah, Jesus, and the early church meant denying oneself of food.

Participants were given the flexibility to choose a fast that worked best for their individual situation,

I wanted to share the good news that an injury to my knee has been healed almost before my eyes since this time of prayer and fasting began. Hallelujah! Praise to Jehovah-Rapha, the Lord my healer.

During this fast, I have tried to focus on prayer, Scripture reading, and praying for our country … Today, church worship was more alive to me. I believe God is showing me my sin of selfishness and pride. He’s blessing me with a desire to serve without complaining, to love my husband even when he’s grumpy, to not worry about my family that is struggling with divorce and other sins, but to pray and leave it in His hands.

whit hazelton is the Marketing Director of Christian

Union Day and Night.

christianunion.org

Christian Union Day and Night will organize a 10-day fast on January 7-16, 2019. All are invited to sign up during the first week of December at www.DayAndNight.org. | cu

::

Some participants shared that they were fasting for the very first time. While the early church and Christians from generations past understood the spiritual benefits of fasting, many Christians in America today may not even know what constitutes a fast. Biblically, fasting means abstaining from food

2018

[God] has done so much for me during this fast. I am always looking for an opportunity to share the Gospel.

experience, and health requirements. Some fasted from all food for the entire 21 days, drinking only water, while others fasted only one or two meals per day, or drank broths and liquids.

The testimony shared by Linda from California summed up well the types of changes a Christian sees in his or her life when fasting:

fall

Darren, a participant from New Jersey, shared how he is boldly sharing the Gospel:

Photo credit: Brian A Jackson

37

the spiritual climate on campus

brown 39 columbia 41 cornell 4 4 dar tmouth 47 harvard 5 0

christian union

::

the magazine

penn 53

38

prince ton 55 s tanford 5 8 ya l e 6 0

A Dartmouth student in Rollins Chapel photo credit: phil anema

reports from some of america’s most influential universities

The Spiritual Climate on Campus The following articles were written to keep readers informed about the spiritual atmosphere at some of America’s leading universities. Some stories will encourage you by highlighting ways God is working through other (non-Christian Union) ministries and alumni. Other articles— on news, trends, and events—are included to help motivate you to pray for these institutions, their students, faculty, and staff, and for all of the Christian ministries that work at these schools. ......................................................................................

BROW N | On Campus

Beyond Narnia BROWN COURSE IS CENTERED ON C.S. LEWIS

By Ayleen Sanchez, Brown ’19

christianunion.org

filled with students on every seat.

Some were even seated on the ground.

“I thought, the only thing stranger than a physician teaching a discussion course on C.S. Lewis was that this many Brown students signed up for it,” Flanigan said.

Since then, the one session class has grown to three sessions of 20 to 25 students each and Dr. Wing has joined Dr. Flanigan in instructing the class. Wing believes it is a widely popular course because most students are juniors and seniors who are contemplating life after Brown.

::

in a classroom. Lewis’ fiction and philosophical writings are “explored to better understand his perspective on modern humanity, the relationship of man to family, the community, and the state,” according to the course description. Logistically, though quickly approved by the university, Beyond Narnia is categorized as a university course, meaning it is not associated with a specific department and cannot fulfill concentration requirements.

The first semester Flanigan offered the course, he walked into a classroom

2018

very unusual, yet widely popular upperclassman course found on the Brown University course website is titled Beyond Narnia. The course, taught by infectious-disease physicians Timothy Flanigan and Edward Wing, is discussion-based and centered on the literature of C.S. Lewis.

Dr. Flanigan’s love and appreciation for Lewis’ writing led him to establish Beyond Narnia eight years ago. In fact, the heavily symbolic Space Trilogy inspired him because he saw it as a work that Brown students should have the opportunity to study

fall

A

39

the spiritual climate on campus

economics, took Beyond “As a result,” he says, “C.S. Narnia as a freshman. She Lewis’ fiction, which deals specifically enjoyed the opporwith issues of religion, good tunity to discuss important and evil, relationships between matters with others who don’t sexes and generations, as well necessarily agree with her. Her as current issues regarding dedication to expanding this science, secularism, and phidiscussion to the Brown stulosophy, is relevant to their dent body at large led her to lives and will perhaps be the work with Dr. Flanigan to last time that they can deal bring Dr. Michael Ward, a with these issues formally.”

Photo credit: Peter Goldberg for Brown University British Lewis scholar, to camAdditionally, the casual Physicians Dr. Timothy Flanigan and Dr. Edward Wing pus a year later in lieu of subclass format—which in- co-lead Beyond Narnia, a class at Brown University that examines the writings of C.S. Lewis. mitting a final paper. cludes Jeopardy and tea, a Subsequently, Yeh has establight-hearted approach to serious topics, and anonymous read- al/faith backgrounds. Nearly half of lished The C.S. Lewis Inklings Society ing responses shared with the class— these students are in STEM (science, at Brown. Additionally, in the fall, the creates an environment where students technology, engineering, and mathe- C.S. Lewis Society hosted a one-man feel free to discuss potentially sensitive matics) fields. The faith backgrounds play with Max McLean, C.S. Lewis On topics, such as personal religious and of the students range from Protestant Stage: The Most Reluctant Convert.

Although Beyond Narnia began as philosophical beliefs. A survey of the to agnostic, Catholic to atheist.

Flanigan believes class attendees a small project by Dr. Flanigan, it has class conducted a couple years ago reported that most students felt more are able to come together because of shown the deep necessity for an encomfortable discussing these topics the naturally empathetic nature of the vironment centered on the discussion in Beyond Narnia than in other Brown student body at Brown and their abil- of personal philosophical and religious settings. Moreover, the students grav- ity to embody a spirit of kindness, beliefs, something lacking on many campuses. | cu itating towards the class come from even when disagreeing.

Elizabeth Yeh, a senior studying widely different academic and cultur-

.......................................................................................

christian union

::

the magazine

b r o w n ne w s - in - b r ie f

40

Rare Jewish Texts Donated to Library The Brown University Library is now home to a collection of rare illustrated texts that depict how Jewish communities have celebrated the Passover Seder across the globe. The collection spans more than 400 years.

During its meeting on May 26, the Corporation of Brown

University formally accepted the Ungerleider Collection, a gift valued at more than $2 million.

“It would be hard to overstate the importance of the collection for anyone interested in the history of Jewish culture, the Jewish religion, and the Jewish people,” said Adam Teller, professor of Judaic studies and history at Brown.

Some of the collection includes

guides establishing the order of rituals, blessings, and customs for the first two nights of the Passover Seder, which commemorate the exodus.

Photo credit: Nick Dentamaro for Brown University

COLU M B I A | On Campus

The Legacy of Mabel Lee

N YC P O S T O F F I C E R E N A M E D F O R B A R N A R D A L U M N A

By Catherine Elvy, Staff Writer

T

culture by organizing classes in areas American Historians meeting. More such as carpentry, radio, and type- recently, Tseng paid tribute to Lee in writing, according to U.S. Rep. Ny- a 2017 article for Christianity Today.

The early 20 th dia Velázquez. The New York Democrat sponcentury was a tough sored the legislation to period for Chinese imhonor Lee. migrants. However, As a young woman, “Mabel Lee dedicated Lee also gained notoriher life to her congreety for her efforts on gation and communibehalf of the women’s ty service center in suffrage movement. In New York’s China1915, The New York town,” according to Times covered her Tseng. speech during a suffrage An only child, Lee workshop. In 1917, she was born in China in led Chinese and Chi- Mabel Lee, the first 1896. At four, she acChinese woman to earn a nese-American women companied her father doctorate from Columbia in a pro-suffrage parade to the United States University, pictured in the in New York City. and studied in public April 13, 1912 New York Lee’s status as a Tribune for her efforts on schools. She graduated Ph.D. holder was rare behalf of the women’s from Barnard College among Chinese-Amer- suffrage movement. in 1916 and earned a ican women of her era, doctoral degree in ecoaccording to Tim Tseng, nomic history from author, researcher, and pastor of En- Columbia University in 1921. Her glish ministries at Canaan Taiwanese dissertation was published as: Mabel Christian Church in Cal- Ping-Hua Lee, The Economic History ifornia. He is also the of China: With Special Reference to Pacific area director of In- Agriculture. terVarsity Christian FelAt Barnard College, Lee developed lowship’s graduate and a reputation for her communication faculty ministries. skills and ambitions. During her colAfter poring through lege years, she especially was devoted the archives of the Amer- to her faith, women’s suffrage, and ican Baptist Historical the reconstruction of China, Tseng Society and the First Chi- wrote. nese Baptist Church of After completing her studies, Lee Photo credit: Cate MCC New York, Tseng presentintended to return to China. The The First Chinese Baptist Church, at 21 Pell Street ed a related paper at the Metropolitan Baptist Bulletin, New in Manhattan, was founded by Mabel Lee. 1996 Organization of York City reported that she sailed for he U.S. Congress recently passed legislation to rename a Manhattan post office in honor of a luminary of Chinatown who graduated more than a century ago from Barnard College.

On July 24, President Donald Trump, Wharton ’68, signed into law a measure to establish the Mabel Lee Memorial Post Office in recognition of her efforts on behalf of the women’s suffrage movement and the practical needs of Chinese immigrants. Mabel Ping-Hua Lee also followed in her father’s footsteps to lead the First Chinese Baptist Church of New York for 40-plus years.

As for the post office at 6 Doyers Street, the facility honors Lee’s vision and legacy within the Chinese-American community. In addition to graduating from Barnard in 1916, Lee became the first Chinese woman to earn a doctorate from Columbia University.

Lee went on to help Chinese immigrants assimilate into American

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

41

the spiritual climate on campus

France in 1923 to study European economics to prepare for a career in China.

However, after the death of her father in 1924, Lee took over many of the duties of the pioneering pastor and missionary. After World War II, her educational background and bilingual skills helped bridge the gap between Chinese immigrants and their surrounding communities in New York City. She preached and taught on Sundays and mobilized Christians from area churches to serve

the people of Chinatown.

“Why did she sacrifice a promising career in China to become the matron of a small Chinese congregation? Ultimately, it was her religious and nationalist convictions that convinced her that the church and community center were needed,” Tseng wrote.

“Despite the persistent questions about the value of Christianity for the modern world, Mabel Lee clung tenaciously to the Chinese church.”

Lee remained resolute that Christianity was the key for the problems

of China and the needs of Chinese immigrants. “Let us therefore not forget the significance of our work in the mission. It may seem very small, but the influence is very vast,” Lee wrote around 1925. “Every little we put in counts.”

The Chinatown leader urged churchgoers to dedicate themselves to their core tasks, “that every boy who comes into the Mission will be made to know Christ. Christianity is the salvation of China, and the salvation of the whole world.” | cu

.......................................................................................

COLU M B I A | On Campus

Orthodox Christian Fellowship S T U D E N T L E A D E R S C O O R D I N AT E W E E K LY M E E T I N G S , E V E N T S

By Nathan Barlow, Columbia ’20

christian union

::

the magazine

T

42

hough its members number 250 ships with the Columbia chapter. As million worldwide, the Eastern a result, the club’s student leadership Orthodox Church is an oft-forgotten has to assume a proactive role in presence on American campuses.

For many years, however, Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) has maintained a chapter at Columbia University. The organization mixes Orthodox Christians from all different communions—Greek, Russian, Romanian, Oriental, and others.

Though the club’s membership and form fluctuate from year to year, OCF at Columbia promises an intimate fellowship for Eastern Orthodox students at Columbia.

Unlike many campus ministries, OCF does not always employ a full-time campus priest.

Instead, local Orthodox priests act as spiritual advisors by spon- Paraskevi Xenophontos soring and maintaining relation-

scheduling events and take the initiative to keep the club going from year to year. At Columbia, faithful Orthodox students have risen to the challenge.

This year’s president is Paraskevi Xenophontos, a junior at Barnard College who organizes a biweekly fellowship group in the choir room of St. Paul’s Chapel on Columbia’s campus. Using a curriculum from the national OCF organization, she leads students in reflection on Scripture passages and writings from Orthodox Christians.

Xenophontos has noted increased attendance at these groups during this semester.

“We tend to have ten or so students at each discussion group, which I think is actually a good thing,” she said. It’s a

good thing because the size makes for good discussion and a tight-knit community, Xenophontos said.

OCF has a slate of events planned for this year. Typically, OCF hosts local priests or seminarians who give a talk and lead the ministry in a Vespers service. In November, OCF will host Father Chrysostomos Gilbert, who shepherds Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, where several OCF members attend on Sundays.

Xenophontos also plans to involve the club in local charitable ventures like Habitat for Humanity and soup kitch-

ens. OCF often visits a local Orthodox church on Sundays as a group in order to build fellowship and to help new students find a parish in Manhattan.

This year, OCF is seeking to build community with other Orthodox campus ministries in New York City.

The students recently attended Orthodoxy off the Vine, part of a series called Orthodoxy on Tap. At this event, students helped make the wine for Holy Communion, listened to a talk on work and faith, and met other Orthodox campus fellowships.

Xenophontos observed that the real strength of a club like OCF is that it involves students in spiritual community, even when they attend school away from their parents’ churches. Transitioning to college often means leaving tight-knit Christian communities. Many students struggle to reestablish Christian practices once classes start, and their faith may suffer. Clubs like Orthodox Christian Fellowship do their best to create the community that allows students to maintain and grow in the faith. | cu

....................................................................................... c o l u m b ia ne w s - in - b r ie f

RUF Is ‘Building a Better Community’

:: christianunion.org

In October, The Thomistic Institute, The Morningside Institute, and Columbia

2018

Desire and the Good Life

Aristotelian tradition. Lecturers included: Professor Candace Vogler (University of Chicago), Professor Katja Vogt (Columbia), Professor Jennifer Frey (University of South Carolina), and Professor Dhananjay Jagannathan (Columbia).

fall

Columbia Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) held a series of welcoming events before its first large group meeting of the semester on September 5. In the fall semester, RUF is working through Ephesians in a series entitled “Building a Better Community.”

The ministry’s welcoming events included: a frozen yogurt social, Krispy Kreme giveaway, game night, meet and greet dinner, and an outing to Redeemer Church in Manhattan. RUF held its fall retreat on September 21-23 in Garrison, New York.

University’s Philosophy Department hosted “Desire and the Good Life: Reflections on the Aristotelian Tradition.”

The conference, held at Columbia, brought together scholars to explore fundamental ethical questions from within the

43

the spiritual climate on campus

COR N E LL | On Campus

Claritas and Veritas C O R N E L L O R G A N I Z AT I O N S A R E T H I N K I N G T H E S A M E T H I N G

By Zachary Lee, Cornell ’20

C

ornell University is blessed to have Claritas and Veritas, two student organizations that are committed to reaching intellectuals on its sprawling campus.

Claritas produces a bi-annual publication that explores how the Gospel intersects with every facet of life, while Veritas hosts forums that “place the historic Christian faith in dialogue with other beliefs and invite participants from

moral messages compare with the Gospel narrative. The articles are designed to be relatable to Cornell students, even to those who “do not know much about Christian tradition and teachings,” said current Editor-in-Chief Carley Eschliman ’20.

Claritas hosted its first launch party this year. The event celebrated the magazine, introduced the vision to new and potential writers, and

christian union

::

the magazine

Cornell students taking notes at a fall Veritas Forum

44

all backgrounds to pursue Truth together.” While one utilizes a written form and the other is spoken, together, the two encourage Christians on campus to love God not only with heart, soul, and strength, but also with the mind.

In 2015, student Esther Jiang ’16 wanted to create a journal that would bring “clarity” to God’s life-giving truth. The theme of last spring’s issue of Claritas: A Journal of Christian Thought focused on literature and how

featured readings from past authors.

Eschliman affirmed the importance of creating a welcoming environment, stating that before individuals are willing to engage intellectually, they must know that you care.

“Claritas does valuable work in allowing non-Christians to see that Christians aren’t just blind rule followers. We think and process and wonder,” she said. “In some ways, Christians are even more equipped

to process information intellectually, due to our beliefs.”

For freshman Amy Crouch, the commitment to “rigorous thinking” when it comes to the intersection of Christianity and the world prompted her involvement. She views Claritas’ work not only as important, but essential if Christians are to witness effectively to others on campus. “It’s important to demonstrate that being a Christian on campus doesn’t only consist of studying the Bible and hanging out with Christians; it’s also about developing our minds and academic skills.”

Members of Claritas are hard at work on the fall issue, which will focus on the topic of consumption.

Eschliman found that the Bible has much to say on the topic, citing Solomon in Ecclesiastes as an example of consumption gone wrong. “Hopefully, our issue can point them to larger, ever-enduring truths,” she said.

Likewise, the Veritas chapter at Cornell is planning its flagship forum event, which will seek to connect non-Christians to those “enduring truths.” Historically, the forum happens in the spring semester. Members of the Veritas team brainstorm for a theme and then invite speakers who specialize or are knowledgeable in relevant fields. The format usually consists of inviting a Christian speaker and another individual who is either not religious or of a different faith background. The two then dialogue and share their perspectives on the given topic.

Last year’s talk, entitled “What is happiness?,” focused on mental health and explored how students can pursue a stable and healthy state of mind in the midst of stress and loneliness.

Nancy Ren ’19 said, “It’s been great to engage people with different beliefs on issues that affect us all and show how Christianity responds to these issues.” Last year’s discussion led to “very fruitful conversations” within the community, she added.

The small, yet committed, group of members are laboring faithfully for

the next event. Analyzing the differences/similarities in secular versus Christian viewpoints about diversity and inclusion, as well as exploring whether intolerance and love can co-exist, are just a few of the ideas that The Veritas Forum at Cornell hopes to tackle this year. To answer such heavy questions in a one-night event is certainly daunting.

In addition, Veritas coordinates smaller events to reach the larger Ithaca community, not just college students. “Ultimately, we hope to plan

one or two smaller events that relate to this year’s theme, and partner with churches and ministries to provide a space for dialogue about faith and different worldviews between students and faculty members,” said Rebecca Li ’19, president of Veritas at Cornell.

Claritas and Veritas swim in the same waters, yet, use different platforms to engage intellectually with Cornell’s campus. Their dual presence is a reminder that Christians not only think, but care. | cu

.......................................................................................

COR N E LL | On Campus

Ministries, Churches Unite to Reach Freshmen

C AMPUS ON A HILL HOS TS ANNUAL INTERFELLOWSHIP BB Q

By Zachary Lee, Cornell ’20

F

:: christianunion.org

Christian community,” said Evelyn Liu, the president of COAH. Surprisingly, the semi-circle format ended up being a strength, rather than a detriment, she said.

For Evelyn Shan ’19, co-president of Chinese Bible Study, the event was bittersweet, as it was her last Interfellowship Barbeque during her time at Cornell. Shan affirmed its importance in the Cornell freshman experience.

“It is an opportunity for us to get to know and love on those around us—particularly new faces to this campus,” she said. “Not only was the barbeque one of the main reasons why

2018

reminder of the unity of the Christian Body. Because a majority of Balch Lawn was under construction, tables and displays had to be tightly packed together, instead of being spread out.

However, the weather was a marked improvement over last year, with rainy skies swapped out for rejuvenating sunshine.

Campus on a Hill (COAH) facilitates the networking and collaboration between ministries and local churches at Cornell and the Ithaca community.

“It was a privilege to be a part of helping connect freshmen to the

fall

or freshmen, the semicircle of tables formed on Balch Lawn may have been a peculiar sight. Yet, for more seasoned upperclassmen passing by, the smell of grilled meats, colorful posters, and a smattering of bright neon shirts that accompanied the tables only meant one thing: the return of Campus On A Hill’s Interfellowship Barbecue.

Held on the afternoon of August 28, a mere five days after classes officially began at Cornell, the barbecue gave students a chance to meet leaders from ministry organizations and local churches and served as a visible

45

the spiritual climate on campus

God and their beliefs, for those with questions, and even for those who have never really asked themselves about faith, there are so many different campus ministries, churches in Ithaca, and people of all backgrounds who love God, and are committed to Photo credit: Jeannette Pang showing others the Campus On A Hill’s Interfellowship Barbeque helps Cornell transformation of students, especially freshmen, connect with campus ministries and that love. The start of local churches. college is a tough chapter for many of I was able to get plugged into a fel- us, and the BBQ has been a great way lowship years ago, but this time I was for many believers on campus to unite able to see how it’s only grown, as in trying to meet that need.” more churches and other Christ-cenKaren Zhan ’21, who is doutered organizations have gotten in- ble-majoring in environmental and volved.” sustainability sciences and informa“For those seeking to join a body tion science, did not attend the barof believers, for those uncertain about becue when she was a freshman, but

the COAH representative was elated at the opportunity to be a part of it this year. “It really provides a space for me to take initiative and have a voice in the community,” she said, affirming the privilege of being able to serve the campus in a tangible way.

Dan Wolffe, a member of COAH, recounted a humorous anecdote about how some individuals who came solely for the free food were still talking to members of ministries two hours later, engrossed in conversation.

Despite the chaos of adjusting in the first few weeks of Cornell, the barbecue was a symbol of constancy and unity, something many first years took note of. “It was just great to see all the ministries together; it’s a kind of camaraderie that you wouldn’t find anywhere else on campus,” said Alex Xu, a freshman studying math.

Indeed, there was no better way to start off the year and give a reminder of how fellow brothers and sisters are never far on this campus on a hill. | cu

....................................................................................... c o r ne l l ne w s - in - b r ie f

christian union

::

the magazine

Latino Christian Community

46

Latino Christian Community held its first Bible study of the fall semester on August 31 at the Cornell House of Prayer. Following the Bible study, ministry members served empanadas.

Latino Christian Community is for students from Latin American heritage and/or those who speak Spanish. The ministry offers weekly Bible studies, seeks to “share God’s love with other Latinos at Cornell,”

and supports missionaries working in Latin American countries through prayer and missionary service.

Garrett ’16 Pins Down Spot on U.S. Team A Cornell University alumnus who won a national championship in wrestling has landed a spot on the U.S. team.

In June, Nahshon Garrett ’16, an accomplished student-athlete who was active in the Christian

community at Cornell, clinched his first national team appearance after a suspenseful match in the men’s freestyle at 61 kilograms.

In late October, Garrett will compete in the World Wrestling Championships in Budapest, Hungary.

At Cornell, the California native took home four AllAmerican honors, four conference championships, and a 2016 national title. Garrett readily credited God for his amazing success in the collegiate ranks.

D A R T M OU T H | On Campus

A Sacred Space

STUDENTS FLOCK TO DARTMOUTH’S PRAYER ROOM

By Melanie Prakash, Dartmouth ’21

T

plate life,” said Arthur Mensah ’19, president of the Prayer Room organization. “We want this to be a place where people can give their undivided attention to the Lord and not be distracted.”

Mensah works with a small board of students from various campus ministries at Dartmouth prayerfully to determine how to move the work of the Prayer Room forward. He is also seeking to give the Prayer Room more of a media presence. One new addi-

“God has met people in lament in that room, God has provided forgiveness and redemption, and God is doing good work to answer big and bold prayers that developed in that space,” Perdue said.

Mensah affirms this sentiment on the power of prayer in the Dartmouth community, based on how different people use the prayer room: “There are people who just use it for praying; there are people who use it for worship.”

“The Prayer Room is meant to be a space where people can spend time with the Lord…We want this to be a place where people can give their undivided attention to the Lord and not be distracted.”

—Arthur Mensah ’19

:: christianunion.org

Perdue acknowledges that there are certainly several places to pray on campus. However, she finds the Prayer Room to be “more about creating a culture where we just hunger for that, and we’re calling on the Lord to help us see how efficacious our prayers can be.”

“I think that God has a soft spot for Dartmouth,” she said. “I really do think there is a history of fervent prayer on this campus. I’m grateful for the space. I hope more people use it and allow God to meet them there.” | cu

2018

tion is a YouTube channel where Dartmouth students can testify to the importance of prayer.

Having a space to meet with God is appreciated by students. India Perdue ’19 said the Prayer Room is the best place to focus on seeking God and appreciates the atmosphere, especially the prayer requests on the wall.

“The Prayer Room is a place that is always sacred,” she said.

While it is most easily accessed by the students, the room is also a community resource. Perdue recounts how a group of women used to pray there every morning for revival on campus.

fall

he Prayer Room at Dartmouth, a place for students “to seek refuge and renewal in the presence of the Lord,” has become an important landmark in the spiritual landscape of Hanover, New Hampshire.

The Prayer Room (www.prayerroomatdartmouth.com) is a small space, a two-room apartment above Murphy’s on the Green bar and restaurant on Main Street. Almost hidden on the second level and nestled between a few other residential spaces and the popular Left Bank bookstore, it rests with little identification. The passcode to the room is distributed to freshmen quickly every fall, so the new members of the community may immediately utilize a powerful resource.

One usually removes his or her shoes upon entering a small, outer sitting room, which is neatly decorated with soft beige and green colors.

There is a wailing wall where students write prayer requests, and a map of the world with small pins that indicate places where intercession is needed.

A few guitars sit on stands, and a classic boombox is positioned on a small table. Another wall holds notes of anonymous praise of how the Lord has worked in the Dartmouth community. A soft, old couch with plenty of cushions is a welcoming place to rest, and windows are usually opened slightly, inviting a gentle breeze.

“The Prayer Room is meant to be a space where people can go and spend time with the Lord and/or contem-

47

the spiritual climate on campus

D A R T M OU T H | On Campus

Calm in Chaos R U TLE R ’65 U R G E S R E AD E R S T O E MB R AC E UN C HAN G IN G TR U TH S

By Catherine Elvy, Staff Writer

christian union

::

the magazine

R

48

enowned author and public figure Father George Rutler recently published a book offering fresh reasons for hope amidst the turmoil of the modern age.

Rutler, Dartmouth ’65, is the author of Calm in Chaos: Catholic Wisdom for Anxious Times. The collection of essays highlights how a lack of historical perspective contributes to ignorance. The essays “follow a basic theme of seeing through the conflicts and challenges of our confusing times, but perceiving unchanging truths and wisdom,” Rutler said.

The celebrated storyteller often showcases insights from his studies at Dartmouth College, Oxford University, and his service as a pastor and chaplain in Manhattan. Rutler, who was ordained at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in 1981, is the pastor of the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel on West 34th Street. The documentary maker also is a familiar fixture on EWTN. Some colleagues describe Rutler as a cultural warrior, a voice for the conscience of social conservatism.

Indeed, one essay from Calm in Chaos dealt with the problems associated with the ways students experience extended adolescence while on college campuses.

In A Populist Election and Its Aftermath, Rutler describes modern campuses as “breeding grounds for self-absorption and corruption of sense...”

“One may exist in a comfortable cultural bubble in school, but then

entering the real world can be a shock.”

From Rutler’s perspective, students need to prepare themselves for life’s challenges by schooling themselves in history and critical reasoning skills.

“It is very dangerous that most of our schools are overwhelmingly biased in political and cultural beliefs,” Rutler wrote.

Celebrated author and commentator Father George Rutler ’65 just released his newest book, Calm in Chaos: Catholic Wisdom for Anxious Times.

Indeed, this is why “one must be taught how to discern right from wrong and to think logically,” he said.

Likewise, Rutler also recommends undergraduates absorb the truths of the Bible, peruse classical literature, and learn Latin.

Not surprisingly, Dartmouth and its emphasis upon classical studies are

never far from his thoughts.

Rutler, who matriculated into Dartmouth at age 16, immersed himself in the Episcopal student ministry with the hopes of someday becoming a clergyman. At age 26, Rutler became a rector. Nine years later, he converted to Catholicism, according to Dartmouth Alumni Magazine.

In an earlier book, Rutler featured a collection of essays including some involving Dartmouth alumni and figures. Among them, Cloud of Witnesses: Dead People I Knew When They Were Alive showcased the influence of Father William Nolan. The beloved Catholic chaplain arrived at Dartmouth in 1950 and retired in 1987.

Peter Robinson (Dartmouth ’79, Stanford MBA ’90), a researcher and former Dartmouth trustee, once expressed wonder at Rutler’s remarkable sense of history for his alma mater, including its Catholic community.

“To him, Dartmouth doesn’t trail off into sepia tones,” Robinson told Dartmouth Alumni Magazine. “The whole history and life of the college, it’s all in vivid color.”

While at Dartmouth, Rutler was a Rufus Choate Scholar. Among his extensive academic credentials, he earned an advanced degree from the University of Oxford in 1988. During his stint in England, Rutler frequently preached to Oxford’s collegiate community.

Topics of theology, history, and culture have dominated Rutler’s writings across numerous journals and 24 books. Titles include: Brightest and

Best: Stories of Hymns; He Spoke to Us: Discerning God in People and Events; and Hints of Heaven: The Parables of

Christ and What They Mean for You. In his new book, Rutler simply calls for believers to embrace their

pivotal roles on the American cultural front and embrace the “calm in the chaos.” | cu

....................................................................................... d a r tm o u th ne w s - in - b r ie f

“Read the Bible and the Bard” In a recent issue of Dartmouth Alumni Magazine, David Shribman ’76 said the best advice he gives to aspiring journalists is “to read the Bible and all of Shakespeare.”

Schribman, who won the

1995 Pulitzer Prize for analytical reporting on U.S. politics, is the executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He previously worked for The Boston Globe, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Buffalo Evening News, and The Washington Star.

In the interview, Shribman also talked about how journalism is a fun, uplifting profession; his strong dislike of the term “fake news”; and how he owes his appreciation of the outdoors, scholarship, and a contemplative life to his time at Dartmouth.

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

49

the spiritual climate on campus

H A RVA RD | On Campus

The Case for Creation

GULIUZZ A SHARE S HIS WONDER AB OUT GOD’S HANDIWORK

By Catherine Elvy, Staff Writer

christian union

::

the magazine

R

50

ich with beauties and complexities, the human body reflects God’s amazing design. Rather than reflecting the influence of random mutations, the human body speaks to the signature touches of master engineering.

That was the message from Randy Guliuzza when the physician, registered professional engineer, and Harvard University alumnus (Master of Public Health, 2003) paused to talk about his life on the speaking circuit as a champion for creation science.

Since retiring in 2008 from the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant colonel, Guliuzza has served as the national representative for the Institute for Creation Research. As well, Guliuzza serves as an associate professor of life sciences for the Texas-based organization, a position that allows him to write extensively on the nature of science, scientific method, and research method.

More importantly, the position allows the South Dakota resident to speak during 120 or so sessions per year at about 30 conferences across the country on one of his favorite topics: the marvels and intricacies of the human body. Though some intellectuals sneer upon Judeo-Christian beliefs concerning creation, Guliuzza is awed by how the universe reflects the handiwork of God. “It’s the workmanship that you see in living things,” Guliuzza said. Indeed, he is fond of the psalmist’s proclamation in Psalm 139:14, “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Though Guliuzza originally embraced a natural approach to the origin of life, the intricacies of the human body caused the aspiring engineer to reconsider his worldview.

Physician and engineer Randy Guliuzza, Harvard MPH ’03, is the national representative for the Institute for Creation Research, a position that allows him to speak and write extensively on the handiwork of God throughout the universe.

“The mechanisms to bring it about by natural forces were just way too insignificant,” he said.

Likewise, Guliuzza has a special heart for making the case for creation because segments of populations cite prevailing scientific views on the origin of the universe and human life as reasons for discrediting the Bible or overtly embracing atheism.

“Everything in this universe owes its existence to Him,” said Guliuzza.

“The creator of all things is God. It’s not a trivial matter to say, ‘Let’s chuck the doctrine of creation.’”

Through his extensive travels, Guliuzza has spoken to more than 100,000 people, including scores on college campuses and others at the nation’s largest churches. The grandfather of six also contributes to the Institute for Creation Research radio program, and pens a column for its ACTS & FACTS magazine.

In addition, the prolific author has produced a DVD series entitled: Human Design: The Making of a Baby;The Human Body: Divine Engineering; and Made in His Image.

As a college student, Guliuzza reflected upon his views on the origin of human life after stumbling across an issue of ACTS & FACTS. After high school, Guliuzza attended Moody Bible Institute, where he graduated in 1982, and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where he earned an engineering degree in 1984.

While at Moody, ACTS & FACTS helped spark his interest in creation science. “Up until that time, I fully believed in evolution,” he said. “I thought that’s what smart people thought.”

Guliuzza remained fascinated by creation science through his careers in the U.S. Navy and Air Force. Upon his retirement from the Air Force, the aerospace medicine specialist joined the faculty of the Institute for Creation Research.

“We believe in a God who does the supernatural,” said Guliuzza.

That comes from an Air Force

officer who spent his career grounded in the fine-tuned principles of engineering and aerospace.

As for his final assignment during his military career, Guliuzza served as chief of aerospace medicine for the 28th Bomb Wing at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. During a deployment to Iraq, he also manned a weekly clinic for Iraqi civilians.

Guliuzza, who also worked as a flight surgeon for aerospace ophthalmology, completed an aerospace medicine residency and an occupational medicine residency at the Air Force’s School of Aerospace Medicine in Texas during the 2003-2004 academic year.

Earlier, Guliuzza put his skills in

civil engineering and construction management to work for the U.S. Navy for eight years before attending the University of Minnesota Medical School in 1996. Later, the Air Force also sent Guliuzza to Harvard University, where he completed a master of public health degree.

To this day, Guliuzza marvels at the intricacies of the human body.

“Worship is the normal response to science class,” he said. “You are not like an animal in any way.”

The astonishing design features point to the engineering genius of the God of the universe.

Guliuzza likes to point audiences to the powerful words of Romans

1:20: “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.

So, they are without excuse.”

Along similar lines, Psalm 19:1 proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.”

Through his ongoing research and presentations on behalf of the Institute for Creation Research, Guliuzza gets to highlight the “exquisite workmanship, craftsmanship, and handiwork” of God’s vast creation.

Remarkably, “it actually lines up with the what the Bible says.” | cu

.......................................................................................

H A RVA RD | On Campus

Harvard’s Seal of Approval ‘ V E R I TA S ’ H A S S T O O D T H E T E S T O F T I M E

By Corydon Ireland

:: christianunion.org

he Harvard “arms” — a shield, three books, and the word Veritas — are the decorative version of the university seal, which remains a legal device for authenticating documents.

Some variant of the arms can be seen anywhere at Harvard: above gates and doorways, carved into wood, sculpted in stone, molded in plaster, rendered

centuries. Instead, in 1650, the Harvard Corporation chose In Christi Gloriam, a Latin phrase meaning “For the glory of Christ.”

Veritas eventually was discovered in old college records by Harvard President Josiah Quincy III and reemerged in 1836 when it appeared on a banner celebrating the college’s 200th anniversary. The word briefly lived on in the Harvard seal from 1843 to 1847, when it was booted off in favor of Christo et Ecclesiae, or “For Christ and the Church.”

2018

T

in wrought iron, cast in brass, and stitched onto flags.

It’s symbolism that gets around, even beyond the earth. In 1991, a Harvard flag was aboard the 39th flight of the Space Shuttle Atlantis for six days, clocking 93 orbits and 2.4 million miles. (It’s at rest now, in a box in the University Archives.)

The story of the Harvard arms is writ deep in the past. Veritas, which is Latin for “truth,” was adopted as Harvard’s motto in 1643, but did not see the light of day for almost two

fall

The following article originally appeared in The Harvard Gazette (https://news. harvard.edu/gazette). Reprinted with permission.

51

the spiritual climate on campus

christian union

::

the magazine

Photo credit: River North Photography

52

In time, Veritas would become the one word most closely associated with Harvard. But it took an 1880 poem by writer and Professor of Medicine Oliver Wendell Holmes to revive it for good. The poem urged Harvard to “let thine earliest symbol be thy last.” If ubiquity is any measure, Holmes’ poetic wish came true. Veritas was Harvard’s oldest idea for a motto and, after centuries of neglect, is here to stay.

The Harvard motto has a birthday: Dec. 27, 1643. The Harvard College Board of Overseers — the “Governours” — met that day in Harvard Hall, a two-story frame building with a gambrel roof and dormer windows that some critics at the time held was “too gorgeous for a Wilderness.” Representing the seven-year-old college, they elected a treasurer, asked that an accounting of John Harvard’s gift be completed, appointed tutors, and then created a directive that more than 370 years later still retains immense iconic power. “It is ordered,” the record of the meeting reads, a few pages from the front of College Book No.

1, “that there shall be a college seal in the form following.” Below that is a crude drawing: a shield, three books, and that one Latin word.

Outwardly, the Harvard seal was simple. The shield was a familiar artifact of medieval heraldry. The three books repeated a literary motif used in at least 10 universities of the time, including the Sorbonne, Oxford, and Cambridge. The motto — in Harvard’s case, Veritas — also repeats a convention of using Latin sayings on the seals of the great English universities of the day.

Veritas survived, but features of the original seal underwent changes over time. In 1643, the shield had a flat top and a blunt bottom, like the implement of war. Two of the books were open; one showed only the binding.

There were clasps, as you might find on a 17th-century Bible. The shields of 1650 and 1692 were square, and all three books were open. Quincy’s 1843 version revived the one overturned book. (In 1836, New England historian Robert C. Winthrop offered a whimsical explanation: that the

closed book encouraged Harvard men to be “careful to look at both sides” of any question.)

After that, in versions from 1847, 1885, and 1935, all three books on the official College seal are open. Versions with the overturned book persist, however, including on the John Harvard Statue and on the exterior of Austin Hall.

The overturned book does more than bring a viewer back to the Harvard of 1643. The original design, some scholars say, is a reminder of a wilderness college that thought of itself as a New World vanguard in Christ’s Puritan army. The open books represent the Old and New Testaments — the truth that any could read in the Bible. But the third book represented the yet unwritten truth of the future as the Puritans saw it: the book of truth that would be written by a second coming of Christ.

(Puritan minister John Cotton predicted that millennial moment would arrive in 1655.) To the Puritans in Harvard’s seventh year, Veritas meant more than truth, or even divine truth.

It meant “fulfillment,” the truth of a second coming.

A series of Harvard courses on “tangible things,” which study history and literature by way of objects, examines artifacts like the John Harvard Statue as portals into everyday universes of the past. Words with complex histories, like Harvard’s Latin motto, can be artifacts of the past, too. | cu

P E N N | On Campus

A Cultural Connection

GOD’S PROPERT Y FEEDS ITS FLOCK

By Kaiyla Banks, Penn ’21

A

2018 ::

hall after the sermon, rather than the church service itself.”

Formally run by students, God’s Property also benefits from the support of alumni and pastoral leadership. Rev. Stanley Williams, director of Student Ministries of the Baptist Convention of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, is a local pastor who helps guide the topics and discussion from afar.

Providing a place where people feel free from judgement to share experiences and discuss faith is the mission of God’s Property. Leaders and students continue to hold each other accountable in a family atmosphere and hold fast to the vision of its founder and alumni.

“The intersection of black culture and Christianity is historical and extremely powerful and encompasses a set of experiences that are distinct from other cultural groups,” said God’s Property alumna Tatiana Hymen ’17. “Despite the diversity in religious beliefs within the black community, spirituality has been a constant in black culture and a guide through the oppression that black people continue to fight to overcome.” | cu

fall christianunion.org

t each bi-weekly meeting, God’s Known for its discussions on topics Property seeks to “FEED” stu- such as faithfulness, obedience, fastdents at the University of Pennsyl- ing, and more, students get fed when vania. FEED is an acronym for fel- attending God’s Property’s meetings, lowship, encourage, edify, and discuss. spiritually and literally. The meetings God’s Property, a campus ministry, was founded in 2012 by Chantias Ford ’14 and other students at Penn.

The ministry is “committed to fostering community among Christian students who relate to black culture.”

The current leadership team is continuing the legacy of Ford and her efforts to make the university a more Godfilled and loving environment for all.

“We address the cultural connection of the intersection between Christianity and black culture,” said Bosede Ajiboye ’19, president of God’s Property. “There is God’s Property was founded by Chantias Ford, power in unity and we want Penn ’14. to encourage unity in the Christian Body on Penn’s campus— start with prayer, icebreakers, and but we also see a need for a group to food, and then students dive into the cater to this part of the student pop- Bible. The organization offers various ulation, to create a sense of cohesive- opportunities for fellowship, leaderness and belonging.” ship roles, and, of course, discussion.

“For us, it was important to be able Greg Louis ’16, a former member to discuss certain issues related to our of God’s Property, said the discussion racial identity in the context of our format is ideal for attendees. faith, and that space was not readily “We try not to pose as experts on available on campus,” explained Abri- God, but we challenge ourselves to na Hyatt ’15, one of the founding explore who God is through convermembers of God’s Property. sation based on Scripture,” he said.

God’s Property meets every other “We envision our meetings to be more Tuesday for Bible study and prayer. like the conversation in the church

53

the spiritual climate on campus

P E N N | On Campus

Penn For Jesus M I N I S T R Y I S F U E L E D B Y F U S I O N R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S

By Cassandra Jobman, Penn ’21

christian union

::

the magazine

E

54

very month, a dozen leaders from different styles and backgrounds. Each Christian organizations at the person leaves the night with an enUniversity of Pennsylvania and local couraged spirit and a few more friends. churches gather to update one anothP4J’s other co-president, Evan er, plan events, and Thomas ’20, shared pray for the campus. how he “loved to see These leaders, called so many people gath“Fusion Representaered together in the tives,” are brought name of Jesus” at the together by Penn All-Campus Worship for Jesus to unite, Night. or “fuse” together, Underlying these the Christian body meetings and events on campus. With 25 is P4J’s desire for campus ministries, unity and revival on it can be easy to uncampus. Christy Promise Adebayo-Ige ’20 is a intentionally stray leader with Penn for Jesus.

Charnel ’18, a board from collaboration member, said unity and interaction, but means “bringing toPenn for Jesus (P4J), founded in 2006, gether Christians who may not have seeks to bring cohesion and a united been able to meet each other.” Chrissense of mission. tians on campus should be “people In recent years, P4J has sought to after God’s heart, willing to come expand its influence and vision with together, to see God move in unexthe development of an inclusive board pected ways.” and more of a “defined direction,” said And when there is fusion in the Promise Adebayo-Ige ’20, co-president body, revival can happen. of Penn for Jesus. Some of the high“What does revival look like?” lights have been a Prayer Tent on Lo- Adebayo-Ige wondered aloud. “It cust Walk during the Easter season and looks like people having a solid founevents with visiting ministries, such as dation in Christ, people coming to Luke 18 and The Call.

Christ, and Christians setting a good Last year, P4J initiated a new way example in their different spheres of to bring together Penn’s ministries with influence.” an All-Campus Worship Night, which “We want to see a domino effect,” is now held every semester. Students added Charnel. pack out the event to testify, worship, Charnel reflected on her frustrating and pray with one another. Praise and journey of seeking a campus ministry worship is led by a team of singers and as a freshman. She noticed a lack of musicians from various ministries that unity and wondered, “Why are there incorporates a diverse set of songs from so many Christian organizations?”

For new students, the first few weeks of school can be a blur as they try to find the right friends, the right classes, and for Christians, the “right” ministry. Charnel takes pride in knowing that new students can now find unity on campus regardless of which ministry they join.

It is the hope of Penn for Jesus that when someone joins a ministry, they will not be confined only to that community—they are joining a larger body of believers that is unified in its heart for Penn and vision for revival. | cu

........................... p enn ne w s - in - b r ie f

Studying the First Great Awakening Penn for Jesus recently hosted a gathering for Christians at the University of Pennsylvania to hear more about the First Great Awakening.

On September 29, students gathered at St. Agatha–St. James Church to learn more about the famed revival of the1730s and 1740s and hear testimonies from believers on campus. During the event, the organization (pennforjesus.com) also facilitated a time of prayer for the Penn community. Penn for Jesus seeks to promote missional unity among Christians and ministries across campus.

PR I N C E T O N | On Campus

The Evangelical Catholic

P R I N C E T O N S T U D E N T S AT T E N D S U M M E R C O N F E R E N C E

By Jon Garaffa, Princeton ’20

I

unique and how these traditions can be better taught to those unfamiliar.

Coming back from their training, the students felt like their faith life had been given a boost as they seek to disciple fellow students. “During

people to disciple on my heart for this school year.”

Lang said ETC was a great way to reconnect with a few Princeton friends, meet people from parishes and campuses across the country, and

Princeton students Kateryn McReynolds '20 (left) and Katya Vera '20 (right) with ECT Ministry Consultant Kendra McClelland

:: christianunion.org

discuss how to approach outreach and evangelization in respective faith environments.

“Evangelical Catholic was a great reminder that evangelization is the essence of the church’s mission,” proclaimed Matthew Igoe ’20.

Past popes have emphasized this calling of the faithful to evangelize in documents such as Pope Paul VI’s Evangelii Nuntiandi, or Evangelization in the Modern World. At ETC, over 4,000 priests, campus ministers, university students, and parish laity were equipped with greater skills to carry out this essential calling. | cu

2018

my time under discipleship, I was able to grow tremendously in my faith and in my knowledge of the Sacraments and Scripture,” stated Vera. “I want to help others go through the same thing. The camp helped me reflect on this time and prepared me to lead the process I once went through.”

“I want to make clear that the spectrum for those who go under discipleship is very large. It can include a practicing Catholic who is very devoted, but wants to learn more about their faith, or someone who knows nothing about God or Christ.

I pray that God would lay names of

fall

n August, a group of students from Princeton University’s Catholic community ventured out to Carlinville, Illinois for Evangelization Training Camp (ETC). The conference is geared toward evangelizing in two contexts – in parish life and on campus.

The Evangelical Catholic organization, the host of the event, has been carrying out its mission since the early nineties. Notable is its aim to train both laity and pastors. The wide scope of the ETC is evident in its format of large group keynote speakers and smaller, more interactive workshops.

“This is the first conference where I have been ‘trained’ on how to be a better follower of Christ, as well as a leader in the community,” remarked Katya Vera, Princeton ’20.

In one of Jesus’ earliest mandates to His disciples, He commands them to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:18-20). And this mandate still applies to the faithful today. “Christ picked twelve disciples initially – think about how many Christians there are today, from that twelve!” exclaimed Kateryn McReynolds ’20.

The conference aimed to model how Christ’s apostles spent quality time with each other as they carried on the Great Commission. “We also had ample time to pray and attend Mass, adoration, and confession,” stated Kyle Lang ’19. The conference emphasized what makes the ancient Catholic tradition of fellowship

55

the spiritual climate on campus

PR I N C E T O N | On Campus

Plato in Paris

S T U D E N T S S T U DY AN C IE N T G R E E K PHILO S O PHY IN E U R O PE Jon Garaffa, Princeton ’20

christian union

::

the magazine

G

56

reek philosophy impacted the munity, are quite the travelers. Nolan themes of the Republic include justice, early development of Christian stayed in Europe for the seminar after the ideal ordering of city-states, and thought – from Plato’s influence on finishing a semester of philosophy the just individual.

Some of these ideas were picked Augustine, to Aristotle’s influence on abroad at Oxford, and Thull has Thomas Aquinas. Scholars today con- worked with Passages Israel to guide up and elaborated on by later scholars.

For example, in his great work, The tinue to find great value in the insights students through the Holy Land. of these ancient thinkers, and their prevalence in today’s undergraduate curriculums are a testament to their profoundness.

At Princeton University, two seniors are interested in the unique intersection between the ancient Greeks and Christianity. This summer, philosophy majors Will Nolan ’19 and Delaney Thull ’19 joined a group of fellow Princeton students for the Plato in Paris global seminar. Taught by Dr. Benjamin Morison, of the Program in Classical Philosophy Princeton students Delaney Thull ’19 and Will Nolan ’19 attended the Plato in Paris global at Princeton, the course seminar this summer. focused on Plato’s Republic, one of the most influential texts of The global seminar emphasized City of God, Augustine continued with Western society. The 14 Princeton close reading of Republic, the longest this theme of an ideal city as Rome students in the seminar came from work of Plato, except for the Laws. transitioned from paganism to Christianity. This influenced the development of early Christian theology, including the doctrine of original sin and the problem of evil.

Christians influences have also worked to update the ethical teachings —Delaney Thull ’19 of the ancients, influencing how we act and behave today. “My academic various backgrounds, with just over “We would often spend three hours interests in moral and political phihalf of them majoring in philosophy. on just ten pages of text – it was a losophy focus on understanding what Nolan and Thull, who are both very deep, intellectual look at the goodness and justice look like for active in Princeton’s Christian com- work,” recalled Nolan. These deep individual humans and for societies,”

“My academic interests in moral and political philosophy focus on understanding what goodness and justice look like for individual humans and for societies.”

declared Thull. “I first became interested in such questions because I was raised with a Christian ethic of service.

My parents showed me that serving others can be a radical act of world-transforming love.”

Plato in Paris will help Thull and Nolan as they write their theses on topics related to ancient Greece.

“I will write my senior thesis in

ancient political philosophy on Plato,” said Thull. “I am interested in understanding factors that exacerbate political faction, so this summer study was a great foundation for my independent research.” Nolan plans to write his thesis on Plato’s successor, Aristotle, as well as medieval philosophers such as St. Thomas Aquinas – both with significant grounding in Plato.

“I see no contradiction between my faith and philosophy – in fact, I see them as mutually reinforcing and complementary,” remarked Nolan. “I come from a Catholic background and particularly in that tradition, there is a deep harmony between faith and reason, for the simple reason that all truth is God’s truth.” | cu

....................................................................................... p r in c et o n ne w s - in - b r ie f

Manna Connect

International Students Inc. Launches Year with Prayer

Gospel.

2018

The leaders of International Students Inc. kicked off this year’s ministry at Princeton University with 21 days of prayer.

As well, the ministry staged its 35th-annual Garage Giveaway on September 8 when hundreds of

international students from dozens of countries selected furniture and other donations from area churches. International Students Inc. (isiprinceton.com) offers monthly friendship dinners at Lutheran Church of the Messiah, a women’s Bible study, and English as a Second Language classes. At the core of their efforts, ministry directors John and Aruna Desai want to help foreign students become friends with Americans and to introduce them to the

fall

Manna Connect, the ministry’s triennial gathering for its alumni and undergraduates, was held on October 13 at Princeton University. This year’s theme was Yearning for the Kingdom: Your Work, Community Renewal, and the Baptized Imagination. The conference is an opportunity for Manna alumni to equip students with practical skills, challenge them to apply the Gospel to their work, and develop relationships with both students and other

alumni in the Manna community.

The featured speaker was Dr. Amy L. Sherman of the Sagamore Institute.

:: christianunion.org

57

the spiritual climate on campus

S TA N FORD | On Campus

All Good Work OUR C AREERS AND OUR CHAR AC TER

By Tammy Chang, Stanford M.S. ’14 This article originally appeared in Vox Clara, a Christian journal that engages the Stanford University community (https://voxclara.wixsite.com). Reprinted with permission. “

W

hat do you want to do?” I’ve heard this question many times at Stanford: among undergraduate students deciding their majors and fields of study, in my department with fellow engineering graduate students

christian union

::

the magazine

Photo credit: iStock Photo

58

as we discuss our research directions, and most recently, in a seminar for students preparing for their future careers. Sometimes the question has been direct, as it was in the career seminar where we were given an assignment to outline our future plans.

Other times, the question has been implicit, subtly hidden within discussions with peers about what matters to us, why we chose our fields, or what brought us to Stanford. And even when we aren’t explicitly discussing what we want to do or what we find meaningful, it’s a question that we are all evaluating to some extent as we

make decisions about how to spend our time at Stanford.

I love that we can discuss what we value in our work and what we hope to do in the future as a community of students. And I love that we have abundant resources on campus that can assist us in this process. But as we’re making decisions about our fields of study, jobs to apply for, and where we want to live in the future, I also wonder whether our attitudes about work are influenced, and even somewhat distorted, by the privilege we have as students at Stanford. After all, countless people in the world today don’t have the choices for their career paths that many, if not all, of us do. And yet, does that make their work less meaningful? Personally, I would find that hard to believe, and it prompts me to ask a more general question: is there any overarching truth about what makes work meaningful that always holds, regardless of where we are or what our jobs are?

My thoughts on this started in college, when I read a quote by Oswald Chambers, author of the Christian devotional, My Utmost for His Highest. In his book, Workmen of God, Chambers writes: Wherever the providence of God may dump us down, in a slum, in a shop, in the desert, we have to labour along the line of His direction. Never allow this thought — ‘I am of no use where I am,’ because you certainly can be of no use where you are not!

Wherever He has engineered your circumstances, pray.

I remember being struck by the idea that wherever I found myself, I could be of use. As Stanford students, we often look at our situations in reverse— we see ourselves as the ones choosing our future paths and deciding how we want to derive meaning out of our work.

Of course, we do have the great privilege of choosing exciting paths for our careers, and I genuinely hope that we will use our privilege with discernment. Yet, the Christian perspective declares unambiguously that no matter where we find ourselves or what we find ourselves doing, we have a purpose because of the intentionality of a provident God. This means that whether I am a student, engineer, stay-at-home mom, or retiree, God has placed me where I am with intention and for good work.

Admittedly, ideas about what being “of use” means and what “good work” involves could vary greatly depending on whom you ask. I would like to suggest that good work depends just as much, if not more, on the character we show in our work as it does on the products that result from it. I was in a church brainstorming meeting several months ago when a retired executive was asked what she believed the Christian’s purpose for work was. I was struck when, without any hesitation, she quoted the biblical prophet Micah: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly

with your God.” I was taken by the simplicity of the woman’s instinctive response. She chose the concise words Micah used when he told the Israelite people what God considers to be good. While the Israelite people claimed that they were already performing sacrificial acts of worship, Micah’s response emphasized God’s concern about their character.

Micah called them to a greater act of worship: showing their love for God by acting with justice and mercy in humble relationship with God. What is remarkable about this perspective is that, at a fundamental level, it applies to all work. While God may love when we labor for good — when we build mobile apps to promote social justice or design self-driving cars to reduce traffic accidents — the essence of the Christian life involves how we act in

relationship with one another and with God, not simply what we make.

This doesn’t negate the calling to use our talents and resources to care for our society as best as we can, and in doing so, to tend to God’s creation.

This is undoubtedly a critical theme in the biblical creation story. But I want to propose that our work is no less good when we don’t get the job we want, when our projects fall short of what we had hoped, or when we’re not in the professions that have the most obvious impact. If a just, merciful, and humble character is what God values, I can be used by God for meaningful work in all contexts by the integrity with which I pursue various aspects of my daily life, how merciful I am towards those around me, and whether I am willing to humbly trust in God. There is a final, crucial point that

both Micah and Oswald Chambers’ exhortations end on: choosing to walk with God in all circumstances. Micah tells the Israelites to “walk humbly with your God,” and Chambers emphasizes, “Wherever He has engineered your circumstances, pray.” As we consider our time at Stanford and the years beyond, I hope the questions we ask each other will reflect this perspective, as well. Instead of “What do you want to do?” perhaps we can begin asking each other: “Why are you interested in that career path?” And “how might God be leading you?” And because He cares deeply about justice, mercy, and our relationship with Him, let us not forget that wherever God leads us, we are made for good work. | cu tammy chang is a Ph.D. Candidate in

Electrical Engineering at Stanford.

....................................................................................... s tan f o r d ne w s - in - b r ie f

Former Stanford All-American Ertz Launches Family Foundation

:: christianunion.org

by my side is truly a blessing.”

The Ertz Family Foundation strives to empower others by sharing faith, learning through sports, and advancing education to build supportive communities.

Initially, funds raised for the foundation will be distributed in Haiti, the Bay Area, Philadelphia, and Chicago, but will to expand to other areas.

2018

across the world and spread the importance of love, faith, and compassion.”

“I wouldn’t be who I am today without the help I’ve received, and I want to help others reach their maximum potential,” said Zach Ertz, a key member of the Eagles’ Super Bowl Championship team last season. “From the moment I came into the NFL, I felt I had a responsibility to start a foundation, and to be able to do it with Julie

fall

Philadelphia Eagles’ tightend Zach Ertz and his wife Julie recently announced the start of The Ertz Family Foundation.

Zach Ertz, an All-American player at Stanford, and Julie Ertz, the 2017 U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team Player of the Year, were motivated to launch their foundation after a life-changing missions trip to poverty-stricken Haiti. Their organization seeks to “improve the lives of people

59

the spiritual climate on campus

YA L E | On Campus

Seeking God through Song YA L E G O S P E L C H O I R I S A C L O S E - K N I T C O M M U N I T Y

By Kayla Bartsch, Yale ’20

W

hile Yale is home to many singing organizations, ranging from jazzy a cappella ensembles to formal choruses, no group is quite like the Yale Gospel Choir.

With its simple mission to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the ministry of song, the Yale Gospel Choir (YGC) has shaped the hearts of its members and impacted the campus for decades. The YGC was founded in 1973, under the guidance

some new things on campus. Djan said YGC is “one of the most accessible and open Christian spaces we have at Yale...YGC is unique in that it explicitly welcomes those from all faith backgrounds to take part in the joy that is worshipping our Lord through the gospel tradition.”

This is the beauty of the YGC’s framework – some members come from different Christian backgrounds, while others have no religious back-

christian union

::

the magazine

The Yale Gospel Choir

60

of Dr. Irene Jackson, as an addition to the Black Church at Yale. Jackson served as a faculty member in the Department of African-American Studies and the Department of Music in the 1970s. The YGC now operates as its own campus ministry, drawing students from across Yale College to make music together and pray together.

Kweku Djan ’20, president of the YGC, knew he wanted to be involved in Christian community and try out

ground whatsoever, yet all are drawn together by a love of music. Djan explained further that the gospel music the YGC sings is “a tradition that comes out of an African-American history of struggle and ultimate victory over oppression through Jesus Christ. When people hear us or join us, that joy is infectious, and it can be transformative.”

The joy of the YGC’s music is certainly infectious to all – a radiance made possible through the inner cul-

tivation of its community. As Djan notes, “YGC strives to bring light to our campus and area, but that starts with our members. We have weekly Bible studies during rehearsal, so that we’re always grounded in the Word and can be restored.”

Ekow Buadu ’21, the YGC’s chaplain for the academic year, has flourished within the group’s spiritual family. Buadu was initially unsure if he would be able to connect authentically with the other members, fearing others would be farther along on their spiritual walk.

However, he soon realized that “just like it was in a musical sense, everybody had different amounts of spiritual experience and sometimes no experience coming in. But, we all learned and grew together while having weekly Bible studies and conversations in an applicable, but non-intimidating way.” By the following year, Buadu found God using him to lead these weekly Bible studies as the official chaplain of the group, something he never expected coming in.

Kianna Pierson ’20, the YGC’s musical director, came to Yale as a church choir veteran. Knowing that she wanted to continue at college, she joined the Yale Gospel Choir early on.

However, she had no idea that she was joining a community that would come to be filled with “her best friends and brothers and sisters in Christ.” As musical director, Pierson plays a big role, teaching the choir the music in rehearsal and guiding them along in concert.

The group is busy, learning about 10 songs per semester, with chances to

perform at formal campus concerts and tours around New England. The YGC performs year-round, ranging from their annual Family Weekend concert at the Afro American Cultural Center at Yale to performances at local churches. The YGC is also very service-oriented in their mission, and will often sing at after-school programs, soup

kitchens, and other community events in the area. Due to their wide-ranging audiences, Buadu notes that each gig has its own audience and energy, but the goal is always to spread the message of the love of Christ to everyone.

Whether singing for an audience at Yale or a local service organization, the YGC has the same stance of the

heart. When the YGC performs, as Buadu says, they “try to focus on sounding polished and doing justice to the people that originally wrote and sang the songs,”—but most importantly, they “focus on singing for an ‘audience of one’ and glorifying Him.” | cu

.......................................................................................

YA L E | On Campus

Finding God at Yale LIBRESCO ’11, A FORMER ATHEIST, SHARES COMPELLING TESTIMONY

By Kayla Bartsch, Yale ’20

I

nonsense spouted forth from the uneducated and superstitious.

In her college years, Libresco’s perspectives on Christianity began to shift. She met Christians at Yale, and, to her surprise, they were smart. Mainly through debate and discussion within the Yale Political Union—the oldest and largest collegiate debate union in America, which attracts students from across the political (and religious) spectrum—Libresco was able to engage seriously Alumna Leah Libresco ’11 talked about how she with thoughtful, Christian was “Argued out of Atheism” during a recent peers for the first time. Her event in New Haven. pre-loaded objections to Christianity were no longer staunch atheist in her high school valid, and she was challenged to think years. A lover of math and science, harder and more deeply about quesand under the influence of authors tions of faith.

As much as Libresco was a staunch like Richard Dawkins, Libresco was convinced that faith was a unique atheist during most of her time at Yale, Jersey, Libresco viewed faith as a rare and curious phenomenon. Due to her lack of exposure to serious religious thought, paired with her vivacious, critical mind, she had become a

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

n the basement of St. Mary’s on Hillhouse Avenue, a Gothic Revivalist Catholic church nestled within the center of Yale’s campus, a large audience gathered to hear the words of an inspiring alumna, Leah Libresco ’11.

Libresco was back in New Haven to give a talk titled “Argued out of Atheism: Finding God at Yale.” She shared her story of conversion from atheism to Catholicism as fostered by her time at Yale. While Libresco, a gifted intellectual, columnist, and blogger, was once a “rising star” in the broader atheist community, her conversion in 2012 prompted media outlets from CNN to EWTN to cover the news. Now an author of two books, Arriving at Amen and Building the Benedict Option, she is also a contributor to First Things, The Washington Post, and FiveThirtyEight.

Having grown up in a non-religious, Jewish community in New

61

christian union

::

the magazine

the spiritual climate on campus

62

she was also a staunch moralist. In terms of her own ethical beliefs, Libresco was a self-described Kantian.

On campus, she was an evangelist in her own right, except she spread the good news of Kant’s Metaphysics of Morals instead of the truly good news of the Gospel. An admirer of the “Categorical Imperative,” an idea originated by the German philosopher that demands that one live by a set of rules that one would want all others to live by, Libresco fiercely sought to live a moral life. She believed morality was objective, something to be uncovered like mathematics.

This same love of absolute morality brought her to admire C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity, a book she had received from a friend on campus.

While initially reticent towards such perceived Christian propaganda, she was blown away by the opening portions wherein Lewis defends objective morality frankly and firmly. Through his work, Christianity became “an intellectual proposition she could grapple with.” Although she was less fond of the later portions of the book which got into “all of the Jesus stuff,” Libresco was nonetheless “shocked by the sanity of Christianity.”

Next on the list was G.K. Chesterton’s Orthodoxy, a book that revealed Christianity to Libresco in a new way. Unlike C.S. Lewis’ moderate reasonableness, Chesterton takes the approach of illustrating the radical claims of Christianity. Chesterton argued that Christianity is all extremes; that if Christ is God and man, all is possible; that Christianity is full of paradoxes; and, ultimately, that Christianity demands a response.

The third book she received, Alasdair MacIntyre’s Virtue Ethics, challenged her own perception of

morality. MacIntyre presents morality as an enriching practice and presented her with a way of grace (lowercase “g”) beyond the simple black and white of absolute right and wrong.

Upon her graduation from Yale, Libresco was at a crossroads – Catholicism seemed coherent, but not right, while her own belief system seemed right, but unfinished. Having moved to Washington, D.C. after graduation to work as a statistician, Libresco joined a book club focused on scholastic metaphysics through the Do-

convert. Now absolutely stuck on the question of conversion, she turned to a friend at the reunion who was studying to become a Lutheran priest. He encouraged her to stop wrestling with the same unsatisfactory answers she had to questions like “Where does morality come from?” and “How do I know what moral truth is?” and approach such questions in a new way.

In this conversation, Libresco had a revelation. She realized she believed that morality brought itself down to her, loved her – this being the mechanism of how she accessed moral truth. Yet, in this moment, morality was no longer an “it;” morality had become a Being. Morality was God. Chesterton echoed in her mind as she knew that she could no longer cling to her own objections. Thus, on a spring night in New Haven, in prayer with her Lutheran friend, Libresco submitted her life to God. While this was only the beginning of her walk with the Lord, Libresco truly did come to God through the power of sound arguments. Upon reflection of the multitude of ways that God made Himself known to her throughout her time at Yale, Libresco noted that she was “astounded by God’s tender way of reaching each of us.” In her case, she said that God used her love of logic and reason, along with her own rigidity and pride, to draw her towards Himself. As Libresco concluded, “every single thing we have given to us is an invitation to knowing Him and loving Him.” | cu

Upon her graduation from Yale, Libresco was at a crossroads... minican House of Studies and wanted to read more.

Soon enough, Libresco found herself back at Yale for a fall reunion debate with her party from the Yale Political Union. In their debates and discussions, she was surprised to realize that she was “clumped” with the Catholics in terms of the language they were speaking.

Later in the evening, during a toasting session, Libresco felt a deep urge to convert on the spot. She fought the urge, however, and kept on as usual, but was amazed at this strong feeling which seemed to have emerged from nowhere.

With these new revelations and experiences fresh in her mind, Libresco went back to D.C. with a newfound desire for answers. She stayed in discussion with thinkers at the Dominican House of Studies, and it was not long before she was back in New Haven for a second reunion debate in the spring. Just like the fall reunion, she found herself aligned with her Catholic friends, and felt the same urge to

y a l e ne w s - in - b r ie f

Hobbits and Humility

Vita et Veritas

In October, Paige Hochschild, a visiting professor from Mount St. Mary’s University, presented a lecture entitled “Hobbits and Humility: Catholicism, Christology, and the Lord of the Rings.” Held at Harkness Hall and hosted through the Thomistic Institute at Yale, the talk drew a wide range of students and faculty, given the curious title and connection to a universally beloved literary series. Professor Hochschild encouraged all in attendance to expand their moral imagination in the way that J. R. R. Tolkien does in his novels.

“Science and the Pro-Life Movement,” Vita et Veritas’ annual conference, was held September 28-29 at Yale. The event featured speakers from various disciplines and spoke to questions of women’s health that often go undiscussed in pro-life conversations, along with novel bioethical questions concerning the burgeoning fields of genetic modification and stem cell research.

Keynote speakers included Dr. William Hurlbut, an adjunct professor in Neurobiology at Stanford, who served on the President’s Council of Bioethics

from 2002-2009; and Karen Gaffney, president of a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting more complete inclusion of people with Down Syndrome and other disabilities.

The Vita et Veritas Conference was founded in 2013 by a team of students in Choose Life at Yale (CLAY) led by Courtney McEachon ('15). The original team wanted to bring the prolife message to Yale in a more significant way than the group's weekly meetings would allow. The conference has grown every year to include more students, supporters, and speakers.

fall

2018 :: christianunion.org

63 Photo credit: Cody Min Penn ’17

pa rt ing shot

||

Brown University || Photo credit: Kyler Carlson

Thank you!

Through your generous giving, Christian leaders are being developed to change culture.

rienne Hein

e Jussely and Ad nistry Fellow Carri

Christian Union Mi

Adrienne Hein

ity, cornell univers

class of 2020

polis, Maryland Hometown: Anna ership inistration, French t; Hospitality Lead an st si as ng hi Major: Hotel Adm ac te ting er : Business compu Cornell student lead Campus Activities at on ni U inutes n tia ris Ch ram; ery evening for 45 m ev s ian ist hr C ed in Development Prog outlook year I jo

rmed my ayer. Last n the way I value pr for 40 nights, transfo t, ow gr gh ni lly y ca er di ev ra s e” ha op “ God ornell Sl nt. Climbing the “C of prayer during Le , or had a on prayer. rk, not enough sleep wo h uc m o to d ha I it. me aware, ght I just couldn’t do luctant nights, I beca ou re th e I os en th wh on ts lly gh cia ni There were . And then, espe is grace, I would go lousy day. But by H light in Him. r Him—and my de ek first again, of my need fo ew 6:33 says, “But se th at M s. rse ve e rit favo sought you.” In prayer, we derstand one of my to un d to de e ad m be ed ll lp wi he t gs in ace. ...

Praying every nigh ness, and all these th His gifts, nor His pe r us eo no ht st, rig fir s hi ity d un an m m e did not seek co the kingdom of God what He desires. W is, e H all those things. o wh g, in K e first th t get this; He added Bu . ce en es pr is H in rd together.

We just wanted to be nities to seek the Lo rtu po op e or m s nt provide stude uraged me to seek to The experience enco y and our good!”

Prayer is for His glor

ChristianUnion.org/Giving Giving@ChristianUnion.org

CHRISTIAN UNION 19 Vandeventer Avenue Princeton, NJ 08542 USA

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

“In ministry, whether academic or pastoral, we need to dig the well deep to serve the people of God for the long haul. Our programs have been designed to help our students not only dig deeply into the Bible, theology, and practice, but also to leave with a deeply dug well from which they can draw water for a lifetime of ministry.”

—Graham A. Cole, Dean of TEDS

ENTRUSTED WITH THE GOSPEL TO SERVE THE GLOBAL CHURCH Full-tuition scholarships available for Fall 2018

teds.edu/mdiv