Campus Ministry Connection

Presbyterian Student Fellowship
At Auburn University

You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your God in heaven.

Matthew 5:14-16

For almost a year now, it has been a joy to be the Campus Minister for the Presbyterian Student Fellowship of Auburn University. It has been an honor for me to meet the students, students who are emerging adults. The college years are such a interesting time for these young adults. Most of them have left home for the first time to enter a new world of classes and studying, as well as schedules full of school work, clubs and organizations, sports and recreation, playing and meeting all kinds of new people. In the midst of all of this craziness and searching, many of these young people yearn to see God in their midst — they yearn to be challenged, to find comfort, and to feel God’s continuing grace and love in their lives.

As a campus minister, it is wonderful to walk with the students as they are searching for so many things, to help them discover who they are, and to encourage them to shine their light in the world. As a part of PSF, Auburn’s students are enabled to come together to worship God and pray for each other through weekly worship, to play together in fellowship, to discover together in Bible studies and group discussions, and most importantly, to listen to God and serve their neighbors in the world. During the past year, the PSF has sponsored Lee County Children’s Camp, a weekend experience for children who don’t have the resources to attend camp, done hurricane relief work in Mississippi, collected provisions for a hurricane shelter at Gulftreat, and walked in Auburn University’s Relay for Life.

The students are also always welcomed as active participants in the life of First Presbyterian Church. The church loves Auburn students — the members of the church welcome them with open arms, cook lots of awesome food, and welcome them into their homes and lives. The students participate in many ways — by serving as worship ushers and greeters, singing in the choir, playing handbells, teaching Sunday School and working with our youth, and, yes, they even serve on committees!

It is an honor to work with the students who are part of PSF, and an honor to see how God is actively involved in their lives. In this world that so often seems dark and scary, I am proud to think that these young adults are discerning who and what they are called to be — and that they are being challenged to show their light! If you know students who are coming to Auburn, or students who are already here, please let me know (aupcusa {at} bellsouth.net) so that I might welcome them in the name of Christ!

Peace,
Rev. Rachel Winter

  

Posted: 11-Jun-2006 7:31 PM