Undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin can explore the relationship between faith and their career choices through Two Coffees and a Lunch, part of the Vocation Formation program provided by Geneva Campus Christian Reformed Church in Madison, Wisc.
Ellen Montei, a member of the church, said that through internships, mentoring opportunities, and guest lectures, students gain understanding of the importance their work can have in Christ’s kingdom, both in full-time ministry and other callings. “There is a greater degree of freedom knowing that the work they do has eternal purposes,” Montei said. “It will be a part of the new heaven and the new earth.”
Students can explore vocation in their particular field by meeting for two coffees and a lunch with an adult mentor who shares similar professional interests. Over the three meetings, they talk about personal faith stories, explore vocational calling, and develop a personal worldview. “We ask them to take a personality test and create a timeline of their faith story. The knowledge of self and of God are dependent on one another,” said Montei.
Nearly 50 people also attended a retreat organized by Montei that featured Steven Garber, principal of the Washington Institute for Faith Vocation and Culture. “Dr. Garber’s visit was fruitful,” Montei said. “I’m grateful for the role his ministry played in our fall programming and feel like we really scored an early success in retaining him for our Fall rollout.”
The Lilly Foundation provides funding for the Vocation Formation program and plans are underway for program events in the spring.
About the Author
Amy Toornstra is a freelance news correspondent for The Banner. She lives in Salem, Oregon.