BCM students at the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga gather for a time of worship and fellowship.
CHATTANOOGA — On a warm day at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, students were treated to Prayer, Pop and Popsicles from the Baptist Collegiate Ministry.
A student-led event, the refreshments opened up doors for spiritual conversations.
“If they don’t know what (prayer) is or have questions about it, it opens up a good conversation about what is prayer, why do we pray, why are we out here doing this,” said William Mcelyea, campus missionary.
The event was a way for all three goals of UTC’s BCM to come together: help students build community, develop student leaders and give students opportunities to share the gospel.
“A lot of people have a sense of hopelessness when it comes to this world,” said Steven Johnston, UTC BCM director. “What I see on the college campus is an incredible opportunity for us to engage the next generation and really see Jesus make a difference in this world.”
It’s important for college students to connect with their peers, and the BCM provides a way for students to build deep connections with other Christians.
“It’s just a big support system,” said Meg Ferrel, freshman. “Just even knowing that they’re praying for me is just such a huge blessing, especially being at a public college. I think that’s really special, and I’m very thankful for it.”
The community is what has helped Abby Swainson, a senior, share the light of Christ more naturally in her classes, she said. The BCM also provides a convenient place for Christian students to bring their classmates to get connected and learn more about Christ.
She’s also been able to have more opportunities to serve than she had before college.
“It’s helped me see what God can do when we are really living in community and how accountability and fellowship is what spurs on our growth and helps us serve better,” said Swainson. Tim Pass’s daughter Rebekah is a junior at UTC.
He’s been down four times so far to serve a midweek meal to the students. For him and his wife, the BCM is a safe place for Rebekah to be.
“There’s so much that goes on in the life of a college student and to be able to have that immediate family, the support has really helped her immensely,” he said.
“I’ve seen her grow spiritually while she’s been here, attending the Bible studies and all the fellowships here at the BCM so it’s really been a godsend for us as parents.”
Giving to the Golden Offering for Tennessee Missions allows BCMs around the state to provide Christian community, leadership opportunities and gospel conversations to local students.
“There’s really no greater mission field than the college campus,” said Johnston. B&R
