GC Student Summer Ministry Team
Published: April 13, 2021
Last fall, junior and student body president, Keith Stewart, had a vision for a team of Greenville College students to spend the summer ministering to GC's "grassroots" constituency, especially the Free Methodist Church. Keith shared his vision with interim president, Dr. Ed Blue and the college's board of trustees and their response was favorable. Dr. Joe Culumber was invited to recruit, train, and supervise the team on a part-time basis. The Free Methodist church responded enthusiastically with opportunities for students to serve in a variety of ways. As a result, the team of three women and two men will be working in churches, youth camps, and family camps in the Gateway, Wabash, and North Central annual conferences in June and July.
The team will be doing any kind of work that the church, camp, or host group needs help with. Where there is manual labor needed such as painting, cleaning, building, etc., they will help. They will also work with children & youth in summer camps and vacation Bible school. "I have been excited about the Ministry Team since Keith first pitched the idea. Throughout my time at GC, I discovered many unique forms of ministry, so I am interested in learning many new and exciting ways to further God's Kingdom." says GC sophomore Rachel Dothager.
Team members were chosen through an application process that involved references from GC faculty and a pastor, a written essay, evidence of ministry experience, and an interview. Those chosen demonstrated a vibrant Christian testimony, eagerness to serve, a positive attitude toward the college, flexibility, and a team spirit.
"I see the team as a great opportunity to help others, and to learn more about myself. I have no doubts that the ministry team will be beneficial to the communities which it volunteers for, the college, and for the members of the team itself." says GC junior Matt Gregg. The crew of five is traveling in a college van and will stay with host families in many of the places they serve, but are prepared to sleep in camp cabins or in the basement of church buildings if necessary. Team members are being paid a modest stipend for their summer work.
Under Keith Stewart's leadership, the student government at GC pledged an initial $5,000 to the project. Some board of trustees' members and other individuals gave generous gifts toward the summer as well. Those funds will meet the basic needs of the five students and a part-time director, including travel, meals, materials, and stipend for the seven-week program.
Part-time director, Dr. Joe Culumber, contacted many Free Methodist Churches once the public announcement about the summer ministry team was made and their schedule filled up quickly. This summer the team is ministering in churches and camps in Illinois, Indiana, and Missouri.
The ministry team's focus for the summer is summed up in one phrase; servant hood. You can follow the crew on their journey and find out more information, including team member bios, by reading the team blog at http://gcsummerministryteam.wordpress.com.
