This was originally posted on my personal blog. Check it out here.
When I look back on how I ended up in ministry, I see many things in play: first and foremost, God called me and by God’s grace, I said yes to little steps and then big steps of faith. But, those steps were taken in large part because I had many mentors around me who helped me make sense of my gifts, my passions, my opportunities and my experiences. It’s no surprise to me now, more than 10 years into campus ministry that one of my favorite parts of my job involves aspects of mentoring. I recognize that conversations where someone can learn more about God, more about him or herself, can lead to conversations about what God is calling one to do in the world.[1]
I’ve worked with several different versions of formal mentoring programs and lots of informal programs and have checked out various resources over the years. There is now a fantastic resource by Guy Chmieleski that is a great answer to anyone who works with college students or other young adults in either a formal or informal way. Guy is a friend of mine and former colleague in campus ministry. He asked me to write an endorsement of his book, which I was thrilled to do! (My endorsement is below, but read more endorsements here.)
Guy Chmieleski has provided a welcome guide in a time when mentoring relationships are more important than ever! This book is great for campus ministers, pastors of college congregations, and other mentors who work with college students. Guy draws from the best scholarship related to the changing needs of emerging adults as well as his own personal and ministry experiences. He identifies the central role of mentoring relationships in the faith development of young adults and is spot-on in describing the changing relational skills of college students. The chapter topics are relevant and clear, the “Mentor’s Toolbox” provides excellent applications, and he gives handles for those seeking to navigate a mentoring relationship. It is a great resource for both experienced guides and those who are only beginning to be a positive presence in the life of young adults.
Seriously...it's a great book! Buy one for a campus minister, your pastor, or anyone else who cares about young adults.
[1] I call these three questions—Who is God? Who am I? What is God calling me to do in the world?—the three questions of vocation. Vocation is a significant aspect of mentoring.
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