It is our prayer that college students will grow in faith and have a church family that will support them in that journey. Here is some insight on campus ministry from Trae Durden, minister for North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville, Alabama.
Why is campus ministry important?
Because the faith of a large majority of people is established during the years one is usually in college. The worldview a student leaves a University with is most likely the worldview they embrace for the rest of their lives. This is an extremely important age group as they develop faith and are open minded about doctrine and practice. Spiritual guidance is imperative for all ages (Acts 8:31) so campus ministry is an important part of carrying out the work of the church.
What are resources that you recommend for students at the university level?
There’s a ton of great podcasts, websites and books that would be encouraging to students. Here’s a few I recommend:
A. “Don’t Waste Your Life” by John Piper
B. Craig Groshel Podcast
C. Apologetics Press Website (they also have an app)
D. “Crazy Love” by Francis Chan
E. “Follow Me” by David Platt
F. “Portrait of God” by Frank Chesser (Most influential book of my college years)
G. The “YouVersion” App
H. RightNow Media Website
I. Andy Stanley’s “Your Move” Podcast
What do you see as the best way to grow their faith during college years?
Personal time spent in service to others. Doing the work of ministry is far better than just talking about doing it! Proverbs 16:3, “Commit your works to the Lord, And your thoughts will be established.”
Advice you’d give to youth ministers who have students about to go to college?
Contact the campus minister and give them the student’s info. Make sure that your give the parents all the info they need to help their student plug into an effective and bible based ministry. Bringing your seniors to a few campus devotionals through the year is a great way to help them establish a few friendships & get acquainted with the focus of a Christian college student.
Trae Durden is a graduate of Faulkner University. He has worked in ministry for over 20 years, 10 of which in campus ministry. He is the pulpit minister at the North Highlands Church of Christ in Russellville, Alabama.
William Sharp 
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