by Welford Orrock

Over a century ago, visionary Baptists throughout Virginia saw the unique opportunity for local churches to partner together in mission to love and equip college students on campuses in their communities. Local and regional efforts grew into a statewide movement that came to be the Baptist Student Union (BSU) and now the Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM). This movement of campus-based ministries continues to flourish as a vital part of BGAV’s mission.

Every year excited and anxious young adults embark on a new adventure as they begin the college semester. Every student has the need for community—a supportive community where they find friendship, encouragement, diversity of perspectives and backgrounds, and a loving team of ministers and student leaders who will help them explore their faith, listen to God’s voice, and align their futures with the mission of God.

“Every year with BCM we have the tremendous opportunity to reach students and walk with them in their faith journeys. The four-year investment that we are able to be part of becomes a rich tapestry of growth as disciples, church leaders, community leaders, and long-haul Kingdom thinkers,”explained Darrell Cook, campus minister at Virginia Tech.

Across Virginia, students can find one of these communities on their local campus.Through the generous support of BGAV churches and partners, alumni and friends,BCMs are thriving as places where students can meet Jesus in community, grow in their faith, and expand their imaginations for a life of mission, in and through the local church.

Kairos (καιρός) is an ancient Greek word meaning the right or opportune moment.College students are in a unique season of life where they have much independence while still surrounded by much support. There is no more opportune moment for them to encounter a compelling vision for the way of Jesus and experience life in community with those who follow Jesus’ gospel way!

Strong partnerships with local churches is essential to the mission of BGAV campus ministries. "Our team of campus ministers continues to look for fresh ways we can partner with and encourage the local church in reaching college campuses. Our heart is for every college student to connect with a local church community where they can find home and grow as disciples of Jesus," said Becca Bennick, Kairos team developer. “We desire each of our students to connect with a local church after graduation and become an active and influential leader in a church community."

“With the support of our BGAV churches and partners, BCM communities continue tog row and adapt in an ever-changing world,” commented Welford Orrock, Kairos collegiate/young adult coordinator.“We strive to practice hospitality, a generous love of neighbor, and a continuous curiosity to discern the movement of the Holy Spirit and the direction the Lord has for the lives of our students and our BCM movement."

While each BCM has its own unique qualities, every BCM is committed to engaging students in discipleship, worship, fellowship, leadership development, and missions. We encourage you to meet the campus ministers serving in your neighborhoods, pray for them, invite them to lunch or coffee, and invite them to share with your congregation. We hope that you’ll tell students in your churches about BCM and encourage them to check out the BCM at their campus. And we ask your church to invest in the important work of campus ministry with your prayers, service, and financial support.

Welford Orrock is the director of Kairos Initiative, a BGAV ministry.