Visiting Another Campus?

A few weeks ago Dr. Fritz Schaefer, director of the Center for Computational Quantum Chemistry at the University of Georgia, wrote me an email telling me that our local department of chemistry had invited him to do a three day symposium as a guest lecturer. He was wondering if I might be interested in him speaking during one of his free evenings on campus. Of course, I said yes!

We were able to reserve a room and schedule a talk, "The Big Bang, Stephen Hawking, and God." He is speaking tonight! Please pray for his time.

This incident reminded me of the tremendous opportunity that exists for faculty members when they travel to other campuses. Traveling to deliver a paper, consulting with colleagues, academic conferences, doing reviews of academic programs, accreditation teams, or just visiting the Alma mater - all offer opportunities to multiply your time for God's glory.

What are some of these opportunities?

• Student Christian groups are always looking for someone to share an encouraging word at their weekly meetings. It could be a simple testimony, or a brief talk about how God called you to the academy, or a biblical topic important to you.
• Setting up a lunch meeting with undergrads or graduate students to help mentor them - encouraging them in their faith.
• Meeting with other Christian faculty on campus - speaking at one of their meetings or just gathering with a few to share ideas about how each is living out their faith on campus.
• Mentioning your faith at appropriate times during your academic times may uncover other Christian colleagues who are not connected with the local or national Christian Faculty Fellowship.
• Doing a special lecture outreach, similar to Fritz Schaefer's talk, that is centered on a topic of special interest to you.
• Consulting with fellow Christians on possible joint research ideas.

The key to taking advantage of your trip is to make contact with Christians on the campus you are visiting as much in advance as possible. If you can give them a few weeks notice, they may be able to help set you up with some opportunities. How do you make these connections? It's easy. Just contact your local CLM representative or give our National Office a call at (972) 713-7130. We'll be happy to help.

If we don't know of any fellowship on campus, maybe you can uncover someone during your visit that could help start one! Who knows how God can use you as you make yourself available. When is your next trip scheduled?

Action Point: Plan ahead to make contact on another campus you may be traveling to.

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