Category: Spiritual

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Student Spotlight: Studying Abroad with Sarah Kuhn

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Emerson, with this quote, thoroughly explains the intrigue, adventure and excitement that accompanies most students that decide to pursue a study abroad program. One such student is junior Accounting and Finance major and Spanish minor Sarah Kuhn. She currently studying abroad in Granada, Spain through the opportunities offered to each student and major through the Grove City College Office of International Education (OIE). I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with her in between her international adventures to ask her a few questions about her experiences so far, her international insights, as well as her advice to those looking to pursue a study abroad program.

How was the planning process of choosing and applying for a program? Do you have any advice after your successful planning experience?

“Planning to study abroad is not a difficult experience. As long as you have the required packets and paperwork and some organizational skills, you will be able to figure it out. If studying abroad is important to you, then that is enough motivation to be able to make it happen. Also, the OIE is more than willing to help you with any problems or questions. I would advise that those wanting to study abroad do some research about classes and credits both at Grove City and in their desired program to make sure that they will transfer. It also helps to take Humanities courses earlier rather than later, because those classes will not transfer from abroad. It may help to plan out your courses ahead of time so that you are prepared.”

How has studying abroad changed your perspective on things like life, education, etc.?

Junior Sarah Kuhn and I discussing her study abroad experience to Grenada, Spain over a lovely video call.
Junior Sarah Kuhn and I discussing her study abroad experience to Grenada, Spain over a lovely video call.

“It had really shown be how big the world is. It has been such an eye-opening experience to be surrounded by so many students who are not Christian and to observe how they approach the world, art, travel, education, and the beauty of Creation. It makes me think of my understanding and learning through classes like Speculative Mind and Civ Arts.”

What has been the best part about studying abroad so far?

“The best part overall has been the opportunity to see things in person that I never imagined really existed. It’s been so amazing to see vague and intangible things that I’ve only learned about becoming real, like Europe itself and works of art. I recently traveled to the beach and was able to experience the Mediterranean Sea for the first time, which was pretty special.”

What is your favorite thing about living in Spain?

“I’ve really enjoyed the opportunities to practice and learn more Spanish. That was really important to me, and a big part of why I decided to study abroad. I’ve loved being in Spanish classes, conversing with professors and asking questions that I was able to apply to my life directly outside of the classroom in a real-life setting. I’ve loved learning about the culture and the different dialects within Spain. The culture is so diverse and there’s so much I still don’t know, and I think that is really cool.”

What are the biggest differences that you have seen between Europe and America?

“Mostly, I have noticed how much more secular Europe is in comparison to the United States. Many times over the months I’ve been here, I have been able to share and explain the gospel with people who really didn’t have any idea what Christianity is all about. I’ve noticed that Americans tend to have such a small scope of perspective, and that studying abroad highlights the range of that scope in different ways. People in Europe are much more culturally aware than Americans, and speak more language and have a better understanding of more cultures outside their own.”

Anything else you’d like to share?

“I am surprised how few people studied abroad from Grove City this semester, only 13! If you choose the right program and plan it right, studying abroad (flights included) can cost less than a semester at the College. Also, studying abroad has made me so thankful for Grove City College’s community, their strong Christian education, and formative classes. I am so lucky to have a Grove City College education as a base so that I can succeed wherever I am in the world, and to be able to use what I learn as well.”

Sarah Kuhn is forging her own path abroad, and surely Emerson would be proud. Her experiences and insights will add so much diversity and culture to Grove City College, as does every student that studies abroad. Choosing the path abroad can lead to a discovery of culture, faith, self and so much more, and the OIE helps make those dreams a reality for Grove City College students. So it has been said, and can be applied to those seeking an abroad adventure, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.”

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Team Up India Part 1

Each year Grove City College selects up to eight students to spend their summer in another country doing missions work. At the beginning of the fall semester, students apply to the Red Box Missions program. Students selected by the program are given money to fund their summer abroad on missions. The program is funded by alumni and generous donors.

This past summer Lindsey Reichert ’17 traveled to India. Continue reading to learn more about Lindsey’s summer abroad.

What got you interested in Red Box?

It goes back two summers ago. I was living in Washington, DC doing an internship and was planning on studying abroad the following year. I was looking into study abroad options and began the planning process. However, all of the study abroad planning became stressful and I felt like this wasn’t something I was supposed to do. I wanted to go abroad but I wanted to do it with purpose and to serve the Lord.

I started considering missions organizations in Europe which is why Red Box caught my attention. When I got an email about doing Red Box and heard it announced in chapel I decided to apply.

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Why did you choose India?

When you get accepted to Red Box they provide the funding and you find the missions organization. You get to plan what you want to do for the summer. I was thinking Europe so I started looking at organizations over there that I could work for. A lot of doors were being shut on those opportunities.  I did get an offer for an opportunity in Ireland but felt that it wasn’t the right place for me. I was out of options.

At one point Dr. Keehlwetter said that Dr. Mech runs a missions organization called Harvest Bridge. I decided to look into the possibility and went to his office to talk about my Red Box opportunity. I told Dr. Mech that I wanted to use this opportunity as a chance to do photojournalism and writing. Dr. Mech said that his organization needed that in India. The opportunity with Harvest Bridge about seemed like a fit.

Initially I didn’t want to go to India. It was out of my comfort zone. I started talking to people who worked for Harvest Bridge and prayed about the opportunity.

After praying about it one day I remembered that I had to read a book about a missionary as part of my Red Box requirement. I went to the library looking for a book that I had in mind. The lady at the desk didn’t have the one I wanted but got me a book about a missionary who goes to India. I knew this wasn’t a coincidence and that the Lord wanted me in India over the summer.

What is Harvest Bridge?

Harvest Bridge is a mission’s organization that supports missionaries in East Asia. They provide financial support, pastoral training, education, and support for women. Their main focus is to provide help for native missionaries.

How did you prepare to go overseas?

I did a lot of research. We had a project for Red Box where we had to research and answer questions about the culture. I had to read books. I dove right in.

I also prepared spiritually as I prayed a lot over my trip. I was nervous about some things and prayer grew my relationship with God

More practically speaking, I had to fill out a lot of paperwork for my visa and passport.

What were your first impressions of India in the first two weeks?

My first impression of India was the heat. It is overwhelmingly hot. You feel like you just walked into a wall. A cultural wall as well.

I was homesick the first night as I was accepting the reality of being thousands of miles from home. Those first few days we saw a lot of things. It was a lot of just trying to take everything in. I took thousands of pictures in the first few days.

What exactly did you do?

I spent the summer in four main locations alongside Blake Bear ’18 and Zach Pitcher ’17.

Chennai

In Chennai I helped Blake at the medical clinic in the Gypsy camps. I assisted in unpacking supplies and helping him organize.  I also did a lot of photojournalism work and interviews in Chennai. I spent time with Prahba, a woman who does work with a women’s ministry in the Gypsy camp. I would sit with her and some of the women. These women would talk about their lives and I would record their testimonies.

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Delhi

We were in Delhi for only two days. During this time I helped some more with the medical clinic.

Patna

In Patna one day, we helped with a children’s ministry. It was kind of like a youth group. We led worship and ran games. Blake gave a bible lesson. We had a full house of kids ages three to 14 years old.

We also continued running medical camps in Patna.

At the end of one of our weeks in Patna we ran a Bible school. Throughout the week we prepared for Bible school by prepping crafts, practicing songs and preparing Bible lessons. Between 100 to 200 kids came to the Bible school.

On night in Patna we helped out with a young adult ministry for college students. We sang songs and Zach gave the Bible lesson that night.

Jaigaon

In Jaigaon we taught in the school every day. Pastor John (a local pastor) started the Christian school that a number of non-Christian kids attend. A lot of nationalities and religions are represented because so many countries surround the border of the town where the school is located. It was neat because no matter the child, they were all taught about Christianity.

During our time there, we would lead the morning assembly, lead worship songs and act as guest speakers in their classrooms, talking about American culture, running games, or singing songs.

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How is Christianity received in India?

The government is not very open to the Gospel in India and Christians can be persecuted in different areas but there is a small and growing presence of Christianity. Because it’s growing people are more open to it.

What was the hardest part of your summer?

Some parts of the culture were very hard to understand.

I also struggled with figuring out why the Lord sent me to India. It wasn’t revealed over the summer but I had to trust that the Lord was doing things with a greater purpose.

What was the biggest lesson learned?

In India they say “India Time,” which means that time is flexible and will happen when it happens. I think in life this happens but we need to call it “God’s time.” We live in a culture that is very time sensitive. We want things to happen at certain times. But on God’s time, he is flexible and will act when he wants and how he wants.

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What piece of advice do you have for people considering Red Box?

If you think you might want to apply, you should apply. God puts desires on your heart for a reason.

What piece of advice do you have for people who are set on applying for Red Box?

Go into it with an open mind. Be open to wherever God will place you. You have to be flexible and willing to see how the Lord will change your plans.

What impacted you the most?

When people ask me what I loved most about India, it’s the people. A lot of my time was spent with the kids. My heart was broken for them when I saw that a lot of what was holding them back in life had to do with education.

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Look for Part 2 of this post to see how Lindsey is combining her passion for Entrepreneurship and love of India to make a difference in the lives of the people she met last summer.

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How To Get Involved on Campus

There is no shortage of clubs, organizations, and ministries to get involved with on Grove City College’s campus. Whether it is Greek life, sports, theater, or ministry, there are dozens of organizations to fill your time with. As a senior I have had the privilege of being involved with a variety of organizations on campus. They have all shaped my time at Grove City in different ways and have each given me memories that I will always hold dear. With so many things to get involved with, how are incoming freshmen suppose to choose just a few? It can be overwhelming narrowing down your options and figuring out what is the best fit for you. When deciding what you will get involved with, I believe it is helpful to ask yourself two questions. First, are you passionate about it? Second, are you willing to invest time in it? My sophomore year I got involved with an organization that I was not only extremely passionate about but that I was willing to invest time in. That organization was Young Life.

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Young Life is an national organization whose mission is to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ and help them grow in their faith. The organization recruits volunteer leaders to go to high school and middle schools to meet teenagers and to invest in their lives both in and outside the walls of the schools.

When deciding where you want to get involved on campus look for something that you are passionate about. When I went to an info meeting about Young Life my sophomore year and heard the ministry’s mission, I knew I was passionate about it. The mission was one that excited me and motivated me. It was a mission that aligned with my values and something that I could get behind. Young Life was fun and fulfilling because it was something that allowed me to use my abilities for God’s glory and to do so along other people that were just as passionate as I was.

IMG_7472If you love sports, play intramurals or try out for a varsity team. If you are passionate about music, find people that love music. If you are passionate about social justice, get involved with International Justice Mission. Find people who share your passions, motivations, and desires. Find people who will spur you on to bigger and greater things within your passions.

Another question to ask yourself when choosing where to get involved is, am I willing to invest my time?

Being a part of Young Life has required me to invest time. I spend time during the week meeting with my team to plan events and pray. I also spend hours each week hanging out with the middle schoolers that I know through the ministry. Because I am willing to invest time in this ministry I have built an amazing community of friends and have had an impact in the work that I am doing.

It can be easy to participate in clubs and organizations half-heartedly. As school gets busy and social engagements compete for your time, attending organization meetings and activities can lose priority. My suggestion is to make IMG_0413investment a priority. It sounds cliche, but you will only get out what you put in. Reserve time in your schedule for investing in the club or activity you’ve chosen to be a part of. When you invest, you show other members that you care about the success of the group. You also give yourself the chance to form a strong community and lifelong memories.

When you arrive at Grove City College, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the many ways you can get involved. It will be tempting to commit yourself to four or five organizations. However, you will quickly find that adding this much activity into a full course load and growing social life can be difficult, stressful, and even unhealthy. Perhaps choose one or two organizations to get involved with. Find something that your are passionate about and willing to invest time in. If you do this, then at the end of your four years, you will be able to look back at the impact you had, the lessons you learned, and the community you made.

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Grove City Isn’t Church

One of my favorite things about life at Grove City is my circle of Christian friends. They encourage me and point me to Christ. Having friends in this stage of life who can give advice and walk with us is so important. But I believe there is something even more important for our spiritual walk. In his book, Bonhoeffer on the Christian Life, Stephen Nichols writes:

[Dietrich] Bonhoeffer stressed the community of peer groups, like the community at Finkenwalde and in earlier such communities as the ‘Thursday Circle.’ These, like the church, are genuine communities. … [But] they do not, for Bonhoeffer, replace the church of even take priority over the church. They are a poor substitute for the church. The church is the institution God promises to bless in the pages of the New Testament. And it is our personal connection to the local church that is paramount in our living the Christian life. These communities — part of the church universal — support the church local. When they supplant the church, something crucial is amiss. (Kindle Locations 1057-1072)

So as important as it is to find Christian friends, it is also important to find a good church — and each endeavor should support the other. (Your friends can recommend churches to you and if you find a good church, you will eventually get to know the other students who attend). Some of my best friends at Grove City are those who I met at church.

Fortunately, the College values local churches and encourages students to get involved. For instance, Harbison Chapel does not offer a Sunday morning service. The College provides a helpful listing here of nearby churches.

Practically, there are lots of ways to serve at church as well: I have friends who have helped with youth group, worked in the sound booth, taught Sunday School, and prepared food for events.

I took the first month or so of freshman year to visit a few churches in my denomination, and then prayed about it and did some thinking and chose one. I have been attending there since. Additionally, I have participated in a college Bible study that our pastor leads, as well as weekly lunches where our pastor comes to one of the dining halls.

If you are looking at colleges, I encourage you to make sure that you can find a church nearby where you can worship and serve over the next four years. One of the blessings of being at Grove City is the abundance of nearby churches — some of my friends literally walk across the street on Sunday mornings to go to church. I’m looking forward to returning to campus in January and seeing everyone at my church again; it’s been quite a while!

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Why My College Decision Changed My Life

Courtney Justice

As my final semester of senior year comes to a close, I have had the chance to reflect with my classmates and friends on the progress we’ve made as students. I have spent three wonderful years at Grove City College with one semester abroad and graduating a semester early, and reminiscing on how I got here has been a constant reminder that the hard work has paid off.

I struggled for a long time to decide where I wanted to attend college, and was not even sure if college was the right path to take. I had planned to study close to home, but realized close did not necessarily have to mean staying within the state. Hearing about Grove City College, a small Christian liberal arts school, was not something initially spark my interest, but I was at the point where the college search was exhausting and my parents were getting antsy for me to make a decision.

As much as I wanted my college visit to be fast and painless,  my parents were just eager to hear I wanted to do another college visit.  My previous college visits in the Southern Ohio area had been largely unsuccessful due to my lack of finding a major that I was interested in pursuing. It was pretty late in the game when I scheduled my first visit to Grove City’s campus in January of 2013. All I remember about my tour was that I was absolutely freezing, completely underdressed, and utterly blown away at how beautiful the campus was. The way the buildings all look similar and were conveniently close to each other was exactly what I had pictured my ideal college to look like.

I hated to admit how much I loved the campus for some reason, but honestly I was so nervous about having to make a decision that would affect the next four years of my life at age 18 that I was looking for some excuse to dislike Grove City. As we walked through the dorm buildings and got to see a room, the cafeterias, and academic classrooms, I felt myself becoming happier. Our tour guide was very helpful in answering all my questions about what the Communication Major was and how I could somehow combine my interests of theater, English, art, and talking into a degree that would actually help me find a job I liked post-graduate. By the end of the tour, I liked the campus so much that I was surprised at the idea that college might be something that works for me.

After sending in my application and waiting two weeks, I finally heard of my acceptance and felt such relief. One thing that has stayed with me throughout my years in college is the comfort in God’s provision, especially when I cannot see or understand his will. I thought college was not for me, yet here I am graduating – early even – from a school with professors, classes, and friends that have changed my life.

Taking the leap and deciding to attend Grove City College was something I will always be proud of and thankful for. Despite my fears and uncertainties of the future, God has always provided a reason and an answer, and diving deeper into my faith in classes has completely blown my mind through all this.

When it comes to hard choices, there might not necessarily be a perfect answer, but you still have to make a choice. By choosing to come to Grove City College, I have learned so much about taking responsibility for my actions, treating people with love and respect, and the amazing benefits of conversation. Please enjoy the TED talk above about hard choices, and always remember that God will govern your choices.

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Inside Look at the Young Life Leaders at Grove City College


One of the greatest experiences that I have had at Grove City is the opportunity to be a leader in Young Life. Young Life is a Christian mentorship ministry whose mission is “introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ and helping them grow in their faith.” Young Life is an international organization that reaches 600,000 kids in 99 countries throughout the world.

At Grove City, we minister to high schoolers, middle schoolers, and adolescents with special needs in four school districts throughout Mercer County: Grove City, Mercer, Hermitage, and Sharon. Experience in Young Life in high school is not required to be a leader! I hadn’t even heard of it before I came to Grove City. But, of course, if you do have experience in high school, this is a great way to continue in Young Life and step up as a leader!

The defining quality about Young Life is that it is a relational ministry. We go where kids are. We visit them in the morning at school, coach track and field, go to football games, and are actively involved in their lives. These actions tell kids that we are interested in them and want to be involved in their lives. Our hope is that they’ll see the love of Christ through us and will want to enter into that relationship! While all of this does demand a lot of sacrifice, the process of laying down your life draws you closer to Christ and deepens your relationship with him.

I am a Wyldlife leader in Mercer Middle School. This past summer, I had the opportunity to take a middle school girl to camp at Northbay in Northeast, Maryland. The goal of camp is to give kids an excellent experience in order to reflect the excellent love and nature of our God. There were four zip lines, bubble soccer, water tubing, kayaking, and a giant swing. My new friend had never been to church prior to this trip, and it was so great to see her light up throughout the week and listen and understand the gospel talks each night. At the end of the week, she gave her life to Christ! The unique thing about Young Life is that I still see her and get to disciple her through her new walk with Jesus!

The community of Young Life at Grove City is extremely rich. There are 50 leaders that are divided into 10 teams. Each of the teams is assigned to one specific middle or high school and they average around five college students. The relationships that you build with your team members and other members of Young Life is so unique because they’re built around a common love for Christ and a desire to lead kids to Him!

 

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You Know You’re a Communications Major When…

radio broadcast photo

As a prospective student, you might be asking yourself what exactly a Communication Studies major is? You know what a journalist, broadcaster, and writer does, but how does that fall under one general “Communications” degree?

When I first began my college search, I had no idea what I wanted to do or even if college was the path I was supposed to take. I knew that I liked writing, so I considered studying English. Then I thought no, too many books and old authors I don’t care about. What about my passions for theater and singing – maybe I could be a music major? Then I realized I can’t play an instrument, nor did I have the patience to learn. I also loved learning French in high school, but could I really become fluent? How can I combine writing, public performance, and communicating with people on a professional level?

Discovering Communications was the answer that combined all my interests. The Communications degree is wonderful because it is broad enough for you to try multiple things, but also allows opportunities to narrow your focus.  I have had the chance to take classes in the fields of business, marketing, art, Christian ministry, foreign language, journalism, and many more dynamic fields that a Communications degree has to offer. I found my niche in Communications because I realized that everyone has a different goal or passion, but with a like-minded, creative mindset that utilizes each unique skill specifically.

By learning in an environment with people similar to me, I’ve become more vulnerable in the classroom. It’s easy to communicate with others who love to get better at communicating, and Grove City has taught me how it feels to actually start caring about what you’re learning. So allow me to share with you some “typical Comm. major” things that you might relate with. If you enjoy..

  1. Reading or writing blogs
  2. Watching and critiquing movies & wish Netflix could be a career (hello, film class).
  3. Using social media for more than your friends’ profiles
  4. Listening to and watching sports broadcasts
  5. Doodling in your spare time and want a way to pursue art
  6. Finding wisdom through TED talks.

Be sure to take serious thought into how you can realistically pursue your passion and turn it into a degree. If you’ve never heard of TED, this is a great source to listen to other scholars about ideas, career paths, and almost anything you might find interesting. In the meantime, check out this great talk about how to be a better communicator.

 

 

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A Quick Look at Grove City’s Inner-City Outreach Mission Trips

ICO Group Photo DREvery year the College helps sponsor mission trips so that students can have an opportunity to serve and use their talents and abilities to further God’s kingdom. This past year students had the opportunity to travel to places like Arizona and the Dominican Republic. In order to give you a little glimpse of the ICO Mission Trips, I wanted to briefly touch upon a few that happened over this past year.

During Thanksgiving break, the College sent out students to Rhode Island and New York City. During the New York City ICO they participated in a lot of street ministry. They spent part of everyday dedicated to interviewing people in various parks and train stations around Manhattan. They spent the beginning of their trip working with the Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) and the second half of their trip they spent time at the New York City Rescue Mission (NYCRM) helping with odd jobs around the organization. The trip itself was around $175 per person. In order to raise money for the trip, the group hosted a “Professor Bake-Off,” where some Professors submitted baked goods which were sampled and voted upon by students for $1. There were a total of eight professors that submitted baked goods and they were able to raise a couple hundred dollars in order to lower the overall price per person. And finally, in order to prepare for the trip spiritually, all the team members came together to share their testimonies, have devotions and spend time getting to know each other better before the trip transpired. On one of these nights, they had a Bonfire Worship Night in addition to their regular meetings.

During Christmas break the College sent out students to Jamaica, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and Honduras. During the Jamaica ICO students worked for Robin’s Nest Children’s Home by building relationships with the kids, teaching in the onsite school, construction work around the building, as well as meeting immediate needs around the home. Each year they participate as a team in a big project for the Children’s Home. This year they built a shelter and a work bench as per the Children’s Home request and because it matched the skill set of the various team members that went. In order to go on the ICO each student had to raise around $1,100-1,400. The main way these students raised financial support for their trip was in the form of support letters. Given the steep financial load of the trip, the students had the entire summer to raise money. However, during the semester leading up to the trip, the team would meet for weekly bible studies, meals and meetings about the details of the trip. They also do something called “Iron Sharpens Iron,” otherwise referred to as ISI, where the team splits into groups of three. Each group then comes up with something fun to do together at some point during the week to help promote team bonding. This could include Sheetz runs, playing cards, coffee trips, Frisbee and more. They also participated in other various team bonding activities throughout the Fall semester like paint Twister, Christmas caroling at Grove City Manor, Christmas movie marathons, milkshake runs, morning yoga and more.

And finally, during Easter break the College sent out students to Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, Ohio, California, Illinois and Arizona. According to leaders Caroline Baker and Evan Gourley, during the Arizona ICO they participated in various work projects on the Life in Christ Church’s property. They also served in the community by painting, replacing ceilings, walls, and floors, as well as staining wooden fences and playgrounds around the area. They also helped serve in the church’s homeless feeding ministry, passed out fliers in the neighborhood for upcoming events and helped with a Palm Sunday service in the park. In order to fund the trip the students teamed up with local businesses like Hoss’s Steak and Sea House where 10% of every patron’s bill, that had a flyer supporting the ICO team, was given to the students to help fund their trip. They also used support letters to ask their friends and family to help them fund the $400-900 trip. They also sold pepperoni rolls to students, faculty and the local community in order to help fund their trip. In addition, the school provided around $150 to help each the students’ expenses. And finally, in order to prepare for the trip the team had weekly meetings that included get-to-know-you games, information about the location and the trip and emotional and spiritual preparation for the team and as individuals.

No matter where you go, or what you do while you are there, these teams always have a different experience than the last. Each ICO team is unique with different struggles and challenges, but all of them have the same desire to use their talents and abilities to serve the Lord.

To learn more about ICO, visit the ICO web page!

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My Bible Study Experience at Grove City

bible1College is a smorgasbord of activities. But one that falls by the wayside, even at Christian schools, is the pursuit of God. A barrage of homework, friends and the enjoyment of activities often crowds out time to study the Scriptures or pray.

My encouragement to any Christian looking for well-spent years at college is this: don’t neglect Bible Study. Especially studying with others. It seems like a simple thing, but it is really important.

During my own time at Grove City College, I have experienced the various sides of community Bible study. Each of these has taught me uniquely and kept me from becoming overwhelmed with stress or the troubles of life.

College Group Study

Sophomore year, I was a member of the Orientation Board, a group of students who plans activities to welcome the freshman class. This was a stressful process, one that required us to work closely together as a team.

We held a Bible study as a part of our team meetings. I can say confidently that the perspectives, testimonies and vulnerability that this fostered between us was one of the main things that allowed our team to be effective together. It showed me that I was not alone in my failings and that others needed to learn the same things I was learning.

Many of the groups here at Grove City College provide this opportunity. Find one. It will be richly rewarding.

Roommate Study

No matter how much you like them, living with other people can be difficult. My roommates and I decided to study through several New Testament books together last year. It was hard to fit this into our schedule, and we ended up convening during the later part of a Wednesday night each week. But this was time well-spent. We all agree that it was the best part of our year together.

My encouragement is this: do not wait for a Bible study to just naturally happen. Seek it out, and even plan it yourself.

Men’s Hall Study

This year, the freshmen on my hall did just that: sought it out. They approached me, their RA, and said that they want to do a Bible study together.

bibleI am currently leading this study. The book of Daniel has inspired us to live differently—for them as they begin their time at college and for me as I bring it to a close. Being on the leading end has really changed how I look at studying the Bible with fellow students. It takes preparation and effort, but also requires letting others lead. It has been incredible to see these new students support each other in prayer and grow in their faith together.

 

These are my experiences with Bible studies at Grove City College. There are many similar opportunities here, but they will only yield as much as you invest in them.

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What is the Spiritual Atmosphere Like on Grove City’s Campus?

One of the main questions prospective students ask the Office of Admissions at Grove City College is, “What is the spiritual atmosphere like on campus?” According to Jenny Moyer, a sophomore sociology and business major, “it depends what you make of it.” She went on to say that “it has the opportunity to be as much as you want, but it is up to you.”

One’s spiritual walk with the Lord looks different to each and every person. You might find your greatest worship and enjoyment of the Lord through Bible studies, church services, mentorship, mission trips or worship nights. In the paragraphs below, I have highlighted some of the main areas of Grove City’s spiritual atmosphere and share a little bit of my journey. I hope it gives you a glimpse into what it would be like to be a student at GCC.

Bible Study

In terms of Bible studies on campus, there are a lot of different options to get involved. There are Greek Group Bible studies, Bible studies through Campus Ministries who help facilitate the creation of groups based on an individuals’ schedule, and of course, Bible studies that you can get involved in within the local church community.

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Picture provided by Grove City College

Church

Just within walking distance from the college, there are many local churches. These include, but are not limited to, East Main Presbyterian, Christ Presbyterian Church located in the YMCA, Grace United Methodist Church and Tower Presbyterian Church.

Churches that are within a 20 minute drive that many students attend are Sandy Lake Wesleyan, Grove City Alliance Church and Gateway Evangelical Presbyterian Church. For more information on different denominations, times and locations, please see the Local Churches page on the Grove City College website. 

ICO: Inter City Outreach

In regards to mission trips, many students are involved in ICO’s. ICO stands for “Inner City Outreach” and are organized by Grove City students and take place over various breaks, like Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter. Each ICO team partners with a local church or ministry in the area that needs volunteers. Grove City has ICO’s going all over the world ranging from Jamaica, to California and even to Guatemala. Each individual team member of the ICO is responsible for raising the adequate amount of support by sending out support letters to family and friends, bake sales and more. Typically the cost of an international ICO trip ranges from $1,000 -$3,500, while local trips cost less than a few hundred dollars.

 

ICO's

Warriors

Every Thursday night, Grove City College hosts Warriors at 9 p.m. in Harbison Chapel. Warriors is a group of students who are enthusiastic to share their talents for the glory of God. Within the dimly lit chapel, students are welcome to come in and out during the worship time, sing or just sit and listen to the voices that are raised up to God. The group also hosts Extreme Warriors for those who like to start their week off right on Monday mornings in the Chapel.

My Journey

I personally have participated in a mentoring program with one of the seniors on campus. We get dinner every Tuesday evening and it has been an incredible time to just be filled and be reminded, especially during stressful times, to look at the my life in perspective of eternity. I also attend Warriors every Thursday night. I genuinely appreciate the dimly lit chapel where I can worship the Lord in my own way without feeling like people are looking at me. I also attend the Grove City Alliance Church every Sunday and was part of the worship team last semester.

So, for me, to answer your question of what Grove City College’s spiritual atmosphere is like, I would agree with the statement “you will seek [the Lord] and find Him, when you seek Him with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). Basically, it is not difficult to find the opportunities to grow in your faith. There are a ton of different opportunities at Grove City, but it is up to you to pursue them if that is what you desire.