The Roles of Campus Ministry Leaders: Guiding Students through the Transition to Adulthood

J Pastoral Care Counsel. 2021 Jun;75(2):92-102. doi: 10.1177/1542305020987148.

Abstract

Despite historic existence of campus ministries at universities, little is known about the roles of campus ministry leaders. This research explored campus ministry leaders' engagement with students through interviews (n = 19). Analysis indicated interviewees' work includes building relationships with students, navigating the secular context of a public university, and tensions with others in campus ministry. Interviewees reported emotional strain resulting from extensive caring labor. Focused support for campus ministers would benefit both leaders and students.

Keywords: Campus ministry; narrative analysis; qualitative methods; student support; universities and colleges; young adults.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Pastoral Care*
  • Students
  • Universities