A Word from Pastor Joe
Campus + Congregation + Community = Agapé
Written by Pastor Joe October 26 2011
With the recent news of more financial cuts to campus ministry and the uncertainty of traditional funding sources for the future, it is clear that I, along with Agapé, must continue to think as "spiritual" entrepreneurs. I feel that campus ministry, as it has been known over the past 100-plus years, must begin to engage the bigger picture of younger adults and the church.
The imperative of building fatih-based communitities with those who live in the 18-30 year old range is not only on campus but also in congregations and in the local communities where the economy and other issues have caused some to put off college. This challenge has led us to see this adventure as organic and intentional.
The answer is to be creative and innovative in cultivating a broader community that balances campus, congregation, and community relationships. Relationship building and "friendraising"/fundraising becomes the foundational goal for the Agapé board. Having a place for students to drop in and call home has been crucial as we continue to form community on campus and in intentional community houses.
The Rev. Joseph Kovitch ("Pastor Joe") is the spiritual leader and facilitator of the Agapé Campus Community. He can be reached at 440-477-7255.
Agapé is a community of faith celebrating a foundation rooted in the Episcopal and Lutheran Christian expressions and at the same time reflecting radical inclusivity to all who seek hope, love, belonging, a place to doubt, an opportunity to serve others, healing, challenge, communal relationships, a group of humans who desire to make a difference in this world, faith, dialogue, diversity, and a feast of friends.
All are welcome - All are needed
