It was the first Monday night of the fall semester, and the Student Activities Department’s street dance had just kicked off. Forty students from our BCM leadership team—charged with being ambassadors of the gospel—were running the concession stand, mingling with the crowd, and having a great time.
That’s when I noticed Joe, sitting alone on a curb, doing his best to appear uninterested in the event. But beneath the surface, he was masking deep loneliness and social anxiety. I sat down beside him, and within a few minutes, one of our student leaders joined us. We started talking about Star Wars—or something like that. The conversation was light at first, but it gradually turned personal, and then spiritual.
Not long after, Joe prayed to give his life to Jesus.
That Welcome Week event marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith for him. Some students are especially open to conversations about Jesus when their lives are in transition—socially and academically.Welcome Week matters.
As the new semester begins, campuses have an energetic vibe, anticipation, and fresh opportunities. For campus ministers, this season is more than just a return to routine—it’s a sacred moment to shape lives, build community, and guide students toward deeper discipleship in Christ. Whether you’re seasoned in ministry or stepping into a new role, this is your frontline mission field, and your leadership matters more than ever.
Start Strong with Strategic Planning
The whirlwind of a new semester can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to tackle administrative tasks early. Emails, phone calls, and paperwork may seem mundane, but handling them first thing in the day helps prevent the “tyrant” of the urgent from hijacking your schedule. By staying ahead of logistics, you free up mental and emotional space for the more meaningful aspects of ministry.
Prioritize Prayer as a Daily Anchor
Prayer isn’t just a spiritual discipline—it’s the heartbeat of effective ministry. Begin each day with intentional prayer, and invite others into that rhythm. Encourage staff members or students to pause and pray with you throughout the day. These moments of connection not only strengthen your spiritual foundation but also cultivate a culture of prayer across your ministry. Keep prayers focused and purposeful, allowing them to shape the tone and direction of your work.
Foster a Culture of Evangelism
Evangelism thrives in environments where transformation is celebrated. Make it a habit to share stories of how God is working in students’ lives. Whether it’s a breakthrough in faith, a moment of healing, or a step toward leadership, these testimonies inspire others and remind your team of the power of the Gospel. Let these stories become part of your daily conversations, fueling momentum and deepening commitment.
Keep the Main Thing the Main Thing
Campus ministry often involves practical tasks—setting up events, preparing meals, organizing logistics. While these are important, they should never overshadow your core mission: spiritual growth and discipleship. Preparing tacos for 300 students might be memorable, but investing in their spiritual journey is eternal. Stay focused on what truly matters, and let everything else support that central purpose.
Love Your Family Well
Ministry can be all-consuming, especially during busy seasons like Welcome Week. In the midst of serving others, be intentional about loving your family even more intensely. Your home should be a place of refuge and renewal. Prioritize time with loved ones, communicate openly, and create space for rest and connection. A healthy family life strengthens your ministry and models Christ-centered living.
Record God’s Faithfulness
As the semester unfolds, take time to document the special acts of God you witness. Whether it’s a student’s transformation, a breakthrough in prayer, or an unexpected provision, these moments are worth remembering. Journaling or note-taking allows you to reflect later when life slows down and serves as a powerful reminder of God’s presence and faithfulness. It’s easy to facilitate this process with a running collection of comments on your phone notes app.
Stay Rooted in the Word
In the busyness of ministry, it’s easy to neglect personal time in Scripture. Resist that temptation. Your spiritual health is foundational to your leadership. Set aside time daily to read, reflect, and respond to God’s Word. Let it guide your decisions, renew your spirit, and deepen your understanding of His calling.
Embrace the Energy of Welcome Week
Welcome Week may only represent 1/52 of your year, but its impact can be profound. It’s a window of opportunity to connect, inspire, and set the tone for the semester and more importantly the direction and patterns of students’ lives for the next semester or years. Lean into the energy, meet new students, and create spaces where they feel seen and valued. Great things happen during this short but powerful season.
Campus ministers, your role is vital. As you step into this new semester, lead with purpose, pray with passion, and serve with joy. The seeds you plant today will bear fruit for years to come. I’ll be praying for you .
– Mark Robinson is the State Collegiate Director for Louisiana Baptists.
