Hamline students at the Leadership Conference

The past few weeks have been quite busy, but also quite exciting. The start of the Spring semester brings anticipation of new opportunities for ministry, new students getting involved, and the mixture of challenge and excitement of coming along side seniors who are preparing to graduate.

The semester started with 6 students from Hamline attending a weekend leadership conference.  During the weekend, they developed a deeper vision for ministry on campus and for how God is using them at Hamline.  It has been exciting to hear from them how God is challenging them to be more intentional about their relationships on campus and to take more time to seek God's guidance in their lives.

The leaders at St. Olaf and I have been learning more and more this year how important involvement in and affiliation with a community is for spiritual development and effective outreach.  Because of that, we are discussing more and more how to provide opportunities for students to connect.  Please be praying for this as we invite students in to deeper relationships in the midst of their busy schedules.

Aside from building new relationships with students, 2 of my main priorities over the next few months are recruiting and preparing students for a Spring Break service project and for Chapter Focus Week in May.  These are both amazing opportunities for students to grow, and I am currently on the look-out for any fundraising and scholarship opportunities that would assist students to take part in these programs.  If you have any ideas, interest, or ability to help with this, please let me know.

It is such a blessing to have your prayers, support, and encouragement.  Without all of that, I would not be able to do this job.  Seeing God transform lives is one of the most exciting things in the world to me, and you are a huge part of that.  Thank you so much.
-Deron