ADOPTING CHURCH // Access Church
Q: WHY WAS THE CAMPUS ADOPTION A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHURCH?
The Campus Adoption has been a good fit for my church because it has given us a specific focus. I think churches genuinely want to reach their communities and schools, but do not know where to start. By focusing on one specific school, we are able to serve our community more effectively
Q: UNDER THE FCA CAMPUS MINISTRY MODEL WE ENCOURAGE THE PRESENCE OF MORE THAN ONE CHURCH ON CAMPUS. HIGHLAND PARK CHURCH WORKS WITH FCA AT GJHS. DID YOU HAVE ANY RESERVATIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT “CO-ADOPTING” A CAMPUS?
At first, I was curious to see how the partnership would work. Once I met with Colton and heard his heart, I knew we were going to have success. Neither of us are self-promoting, nor do we focus on promoting our youth ministries. We keep each meeting Christ focused and trust God to fill our churches.
Q: HOW HAVE YOU SEEN GOD WORK IN YOUR OWN LIFE AND IN THE LIVES OF THE OTHER FCA VOLUNTEERS AT GJHS?
I truly believe that I am making the most difference for Christ when I am at FCA. Each meeting, the leaders and I have a chance to invest in students who are mostly unchurched. When you hear a student say thank you for coming and sharing with them, it does something in your heart. I am a better pastor and speaker because of how I have developed while ministering with FCA.
Q: FROM YOUR PERSPECTIVE, HAVE YOU SEEN THE PARTNERSHIP OF ACCESS CHURCH WITH FCA CONTRIBUTE TO THE GROWTH OF THE LOCAL CHURCH?
The partnership of Access Church with FCA has allowed us to connect with leaders in our community. After Hurricane Irma, the school had a work day. I was able to connect with many students and teachers. By being on campus with FCA, I have been able to connect with administration and have found new ways for my church to serve the school such as giving out teacher care packages, having “serve days” at the school, and volunteering to proctor during standardized testing.
Q: HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHER PASTORS/YOUTH PASTORS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF STUDENTS ON CAMPUS THROUGH THE WORK OF FCA?
I would encourage other pastors to not be intimidated. The easy route is to stay in our church offices week after week. You cannot wait for the students to come to you. Go to them! FCA gives you the opportunity. When you partner with another pastor and church in your area, it takes off the weight of having to carry everything yourself. It is amazing what Jesus will do through you when you do not care who gets the credit!