Does the Church still impact the community?

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On Sunday, I had a great conversation over twitter with a student.  The student said something that sparked a question for her, “How do we advocate change”?

Student: “I just think, myself included, that all the Christians at our school need to stand out more. We’re all in this bubble with our Christian friends, but when Christ came, he came for the sinners, not the saved. I’m not saying don’t be friends with Christians, but i feel like a lot of us are kind of livin with our heads in the sand a bit. we need to have more ‘outreaches’ at our school, trying to connect with the unsaved more. I’m going to do everything I can to start reaching out to those in need. and maybe with friends with me on that too. I’m excited to see what God is going to do in my school.”

James:  Student involved, student led outreaches are really the only way to reach them. I do believe the Church (big C) needs to be more approachable and more involved in a relational way, not really a religious way. I would like to see the Church be known on all campuses, not for our (youth) program, but for our willingness to get involved with the school (community).

Student: Yes! I also believe the big C needs to be more approachable. I see so many people hear the Name “God” and turn the other way and I just want to do everything I can to at least be able to talk with these kids and get to know them and their story. I WANT them to feel the Love I feel and yes, I completely agree! I look forward to being able to do everything I can to get to know people and talk to them and such! I think great things will come out of this.

Beyond breaking the 140 character record, the question on how can student ministry impact a community is for us all.  Let’s start the conversation with these two questions.

1)  In what ways can the Church (Student Ministry and the Church in general) impact their community?

2) Are “Campus Ministries” a thing of the past or do you see them vibrant in your community?

Should churches be closed this week?

I’ve noticed a lot of churches closed it’s offices this week.  Many churches have canceled youth services this week.

Should churches be open this week?  Is this week a good week for active (outreach, service, etc.) ministry?

Please share your thoughts.