Three years ago, Union Adventist University’s Campus Ministries and Residential Life launched a new emphasis on small groups to provide students with meaningful worship and social opportunities against a cultural backdrop of increasing loneliness. Today, small group ministries are no longer a new initiative but an integral part of campus life.
“Freshmen are often nervous and shy when coming to Union for the first time,” says Miguel Sosa, a sophomore theology major from Wichita, Kansas. “When I was a freshman, Connect Groups definitely helped me get to know the campus more and connect with people.”
The small groups organized by Campus Ministries are branded “Connect Groups,” and Dylan Haloviak, a junior from Redlands, California, is the student leader charged with coordinating them this year. “I think the Connect Groups are a great way for people to take a good first step into the Union atmosphere,” Haloviak said. “It’s a great way to meet new people and experience the spiritual life on this campus.”
“Small groups are about connecting together and spending time with Jesus,” Haloviak continued. Some are Bible study-based, while others spend time playing board games. “It’s a good way to grow closer with each other and get to know more people while also spending time with the Lord.”
One group that has stood out to Haloviak is called “Evidential Faith,” a group he has been participating in since his freshmen year. There, students discuss how to defend their faith and why they believe what they believe. He stated, “I think that’s very important for Christians to know.”
Other small groups are organized by Residential Life, with each RA organizing a group. While most have a worship component, they vary greatly. Examples include Grounded in Grace, Ways of Worship, pickleball, Books of Paul, Paint n’ Chat, and a “Pop In” small group, where they put together crafts and interact with others.
Haloviak has witnessed new friendships blossom and spiritual growth happen. “I’ve seen that people have gotten more comfortable with speaking up and really trying to find the deep meaning in the scripture.” Typically, about 5 to 12 students attend each group, creating a comfortable atmosphere where everyone gets a voice. Many students have expressed that Connect Groups are a highlight of their day. “I would say the mission is to connect with others and to connect with Jesus through the power of His word,” he said.
Haloviak encourages students to take the leap and jump into a small group. “It may seem stressful at first,” he said. “But I would say keep giving it a few more tries. Because, with time you will really feel, ‘this is where I belong.’”
by Seth Coe, a sophomore writing studies major from Canon City, Colorado