If you attend Bethel or Northwestern, your training will be at Bethlehem Baptist Church – North Campus. 5151 program ave mounds view, mn 55112

If you attend St. Thomas or University of Minnesota, your training will be at Bethlehem Baptist Church – Downtown Campus. 720 13th Ave S Minneapolis, MN 55415

If you have questions about project or want to know more information about parents weekend (June 15-17), then you should download the parents packet.

If your child attends Bethel University, Northwestern College, or University of Sioux Falls:
Download the 2012 STP North Project Parents Packet here

If your child attends University of St. Thomas, University of Minnesota, South Dakota State, or Michigan State:
Download the 2012 STP South Project Parents Packet here

1. Save $200!!! – If you bring your car to project, you don’t have to pay additional $200 transportation fee

2. Help serve the project – Every day you and your room will need rides to work, meetings, and/or church. By bringing your car you can help everyone on project get to where they need to be on time.

3. Freedom to go wherever you need while on project – If you bring your own car, then you will not have to wait on others or look for someone else’s car to drive in order to run errands or grab a bite to eat or anything else you would need to do while at project.
A few common objections:

But I don’t want my car to suffer all the wear and tear…
It is true that a two-day trip can be taxing on a car, but every year we have dozens of cars that make this trip with our project and come back in good condition. We understand the potential risk, but we ask you to serve the project by bringing your own car.

I don’t want to have to pay for all the gas while we’re in South Carolina…
We ask all students who did not bring their cars for the summer to help out for gas on a regular basis, so that the car owner is not stuck paying for gas by him or herself throughout the project. You can raise additional support to pay for gas while at project (so you can drive for free!)

I’m on my parents’ insurance, so I don’t know if I should bring my car…
Many students drive the whole way to project, or for short periods let other students drive their car.

I’m afraid of having to lend my car to other people while on project…
It’s not a requirement to allow others to drive your car, however it does serve the project by letting your friends borrow your vehicle.

If you have any questions about bringing your car to project, please dont hesitate to contact our office. office@cominneapolis.org

Yesterday, Eric Lonergan and Andrew Knight gave some mini-talks. In the talks they touched on longevity for students. Eric said our primary need in life is knowing Christ.  He said that we should continue to be intentional with relationships, be authentic in communty, and seek the body of Christ.  Eric said that growth is not individual, rather, we should be relying on the body of Christ to see Christ more.

After the talks, campuses split up to spend time together and set vision for next year on campus.  Today, students have the day off and many are spending the day in Charleston. Tomorrow, everyone will continue with our return training. Pray for students to persevere during the next couple days. Pray that they would feel equipped from this summer to go home in August and return on campus in the fall.

This morning, at the final Life Training, Mike Polley talked about staying awake to the gospel and spiritual realities when we go home.

The month of August isn’t always easy for students. It lies right between intense community at Project and at school, and without that community, it can be easy to sleep all day or forget about getting time in the Word.

Mike said this is something to be aware of, and he went through four areas of caution: pleasure, comfort, personal performance, and emotions. Many of these require us to look inward and determine whether or not what happens at Project is because of God or because of the community. Performing for others comes from forgetting the gospel, thinking we can add things to the table.

“It’s so dangerous because it just slips in,” Mike said.

He also stressed how falling into this still just brings us back to the gospel – how it’s these times of personal performance that we can fall back on the cross and know that we’re forgiven.

Talking about emotions, Mike said that they should influence our decisions in light of truth. In the moments of lacking or negative emotions, we get to cling to Christ, because he is what’s true.

“How we feel does not change what is and is not … He’s the same yesterday, today and forever.”

Colossians 2:6 says, “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.”

Going in home in August doesn’t mean we have a month to take a spiritual break. We should still do things out of a love and desire for God. But, if it’s hard, that doesn’t mean our faith has taken a huge step backward.

“You faith is perfected in Him and not what you do,” Mike said.

After Life Training we spent time meditating on these things. Then, after church, many people went to Garden City Baptist Church for a church potluck, and many others went to Rioz, a Brazilian steakhouse. Tonight is our final D-group, and this week will be filled with more lasts as we continue to prepare for home.

Students sharing their faith on the beach

Every Wednesday we set aside time for students to evangelize.  Everyone goes out on the beach and shares their faith. From what we have observed, this seems to be an excellent equipping skill for students.  Students are able to learn how to share their faith, their testimony, and explain who Christ is for the sinner.  This is equipping students to share their faith with peers on their individual campuses and in the workplace, both present and future.

Although students mostly share on the beach, some Wednesdays we evangelize in other ways. For example, a few weeks ago, we had students write a letter to a friend or family member back home.  In this letter, they explained the Gospel and the impact it has had on their personal life.  Yesterday, we called someone from back home that we would want to disciple us, minister alongside us, or disciple in the fall.  Students prayed through specifically who they want to be involved with next year.  Our desire is that they would go back to the campus in the fall with a vision to know Christ more in their lives and make Him known to others.

After work, everyone came back to project for the project meal. Ultimate California Pizza was served to all the students.  After dinner, we went to the joint theme training meeting with South Project.

Larry Martini, South Project Student Director, talked about loneliness. He said that within all of us lies a deep longing of not wanting to be alone. Therefore, we cling to relationships, family, friends, and anything else we can grab onto so we don’t “feel” alone. On the other side, we guard ourselves because we fear being fully known because we think others will not love us if they know the depth of our sin. Here lies the dilemna.  How are we, as believers of Christ, to love one another and love community while being genuinely sincere and yet not placing people above God?

Larry said that we feel alone when we lack intimacy with Christ. Ephesians 2:13 says, “But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” This is the answer to our deepest heart’s longings.  Because of Christ, we are brought back into community with God.  When we are in communion with God we do not have to fear loneliness for He promises to always be with us.  In addition, we can now use community as a means to know Christ more.  In Christ, we have every need and desire both met and completely satisfied. Now, we are freed to genuinely love our brothers and sisters in Christ, and point one another back to Truth.

In the men’s time, the team leaders addressed the fact that men are to be leaders and lead girls well in relationships. Therefore, they should protect the girl’s heart. In addition, the women encouraged the men to grow in their understanding of Christ and seek male accountability. This is an essential lesson for their entire life.  We hope that they would seek Christ and community not just now, but for the rest of their lives.

In the women’s tine, the men team leaders encouraged the girls to first find their satisfaction in Christ.  Relationships are a good thing that the Lord created, however in and of themselves, they do not fulfill.  Relationships are to point us to Christ and seek fulfillment and love in Him.  They encouraged girls to seek women accountability in their lives and seek satisfatction in Christ.

Both the men and women’s time turned out to be highly beneficial and informative for the guys and girls.  Our aim is that they would both be satisfied in what has been done on the cross for their behalf.  From that, we hope they would be able to engage in healthy relationships with their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Bi-lo student employees performing a skit

Everyone enjoyed light snacks and lemonade in the beginning.  Then, students performed skits relating to their job responsibilities.  For example, Wal-Mart student employees performed a skit in which they broke into dance and imitated their daily individial job duties.  After the skits, Greg Morse, a student from University of St. Thomas, presented a gospel message.

By holding this social, we hope to minister to the local employees and employers that we work with. Students have been able to build relationships with their employers throughout the summer.  Many have shared the Gospel with fellow employees. Our goal is that students would learn how to share their faith in the workplace. We also pray that fellow employees would come to know Jesus Christ as Lord.

Wal-Mart student employess performing a skit

This is definitely a truth the Czech Republic team felt Sunday afternoon after spending five hours at Street Reach – a local homeless shelter and rehabilitation center.

This blog post is a little more subjective than what I’ve been doing. I just really want to tell you about the experience I had, which was similar to the other 20-some students who had the opportunity to volunteer.

Last week’s prayer focus was the local community, and going off that, Hannah Mihalko was able to find a place we could serve this community.

Once we arrived at Street Reach, we spent no more than an hour completing the various cleaning tasks they had for us. But then, we ended up staying four more hours to talk, worship, and pray with people staying at and visiting the shelter.

Each person had a different story. Some were mentally challenged, some lived in the woods, some couldn’t escape substance addictions, and some had families that seem beyond repair. I want to tell you about three people I talked to, and I would love for you to pray for them, even just once right now.

Frederic:

Sahr Brima gave a gospel presentation through what is called Spoken Word – a mixture of rap and poetry. After he finished, Frederic just said, “My life is so messed up.”

He said he has three kids from his ex-wife and one on the way from a different woman. He said he is a Christian, and he was able to articulate the gospel.

Pray that this would be true, and that Jesus would be so sweet to him. Pray that his brokenness would lead him straight to the cross.

Jesse:

In a way, he stuck out in the room. He’s 23 years old (much younger than most there), and he appeared to be educated and friendly. Still, there is a lot of brokenness. He has a six-month old baby who’s living with his ex-wife, who’s in a homosexual relationship.

He did not seem to know Christ, so pray that God would work in his heart.

Paul:

He gave me a brief explanation of what brought him to Street Reach. His house in Louisiana was flooded and completely lost. He found a job in the Myrtle Beach region, but the place was shut down because of health reasons. He told me: “I don’t do drugs and I don’t drink; this is just where God wants me.”

He was completely content. He said he’d been there for four or five days.

“You wouldn’t believe all the conversations I’ve had with these people in just a few days.”

He said he’s been able to share the gospel countless times, and he knows God has him there for a reason.

Pray that God would continue to do amazing things through Paul. Pray for his time at the shelter. I’m not sure if he’ll be there for just a couple more days or a couple months. But God is good, so pray his strong and steady joy in Christ would not falter even a little.

I was so encouraged by all three of these conversations, as well as all the conversations everyone else was able to have. I’ve been amazed what doors God opens when my identity is completely in him and what he’s done for me.

I – and the other students who went – were reminded about what matters. I think it’s important to have perspective on that sometimes. Comfort, fashion, education – all these things rarely ever crossed the minds of the people at Street Reach. All people, from all places and all situations, have one thing in common: a desperate need for the gospel.

Cassie Weber, a Bethel University Junior, talked about the impact that Christ has had on her this summer. She said, “I am continuing to learn more of His grace to me.  As a room leader, I often see my selfishness. However, in those moments of seeing my sin, I run to Christ and trust that He continues to love me despite my selfishness. I am growing in understanding His incredible grace for me.”

Joel Edwall said, “I’ve learned that there is nothing to life apart from Christ. I’ve realized how undeserving I am of His goodness to me.”

Allison Substad, a Bethel Sophmoroe, said, “I think I’ve realized just how sweet it is that the Lord looks at me with love.  Because of Christ, He is always singing over me and delights in me.”

These are just a few things that students are saying they have learned.  It is amazing to see the growth that has happened this summer thus far.  I have heard multiple times from students that, for the first time, they understand clearly the Gospel and what it means for them.  It is my prayer that we continue to grow in knowledge and understanding of Christ.  Please pray that we would continue to persevere this summer. Pray that the hearts of students may be changed forevermore because of what they have learned about Christ.

3 John 1:4,”I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

In the morning before church, students split into groups with their campuses.  In the Northwestern group, Northwestern students talked about their plan for ministry in the fall.  Everyone shared where they are desiring to spend time next year in order to build relationships and tell others of the Gospel. We then spent time praying for the Lord to continue working in our hearts and give us strength to tell of His glory to other students.  We prayed that the Holy Spirit would be softening the hearts of students at Northwestern to hear and full-heartedly accept Truth.

After our campus times, everyone went to church.  There are three different churches that those from our project attend.  We attend Garden City Baptist, Garden City Chapel, and Pine Drive Gospel.  Students are divided into their teams and regularly attend one of the above churches.  We have continued to build relationships with people from the churches, and thoroughly enjoy being part of a congregation during the summer.

Ali, Zach, Cassie, and Rachel acting out a scene

Almost all students from our project participicated in playing the game.  Students were divided in groups of four people, encompassing both guys and girls. One the games that was played from the hit TV show was The Alphabet, where contestants act a scene with each sentence starting with successive letters of the alphabet. Another game that was played was Scene With a Prop where contestants are given a prop and must act out a scene including the prop.  Many different games were played throughout the evening.  The night turned out to be very humurous watching students playing the different games. After the game, students enjoyed watching the movie, Heavyweights.

As a follower of Christ, we are called to give to the needy.  Yet, so often in our lives, we neglect that aspect.  He gave three reasons why we do mercy ministries.  First, it is commanded. Second, Jesus modeled it for us. Lastly, it gives God glory.  Joe explained that if we realize that we were children of wrath, we would be in awe of the fullness of forgiveness that Christ has for us.  We have absolutely everything because of Jesus Christ! True knowledge of this should transform every aspect of our lives, including giving and serving those who are needy.

In regards to this, John Piper states, “We do not love people so that we can be adopted, we love people because we have been adopted.”

After the talk, we went back to Project.  There, we served the motel owner, Greg, by cleaning the entire outside area.  He recently had a heart attack and has been unable to do much upkeep with the motel.  All the students worked in the heat of the day in order to serve Greg.  We pray this is incredibly encouraging to Him, and that we would be able to speak truth to Him. We long to be witnesses of Christ in both word and deed.

Yesterday, Lucas Cecka gave the Evangelism Training message. His main point was that loving people means speaking the gospel to them.

“If we don’t open our mouths and share the gospel, we are not loving them – no matter what we are doing with our hands.”

He walked through the steps of how the gospel saves.

1. Someone must be sent.
2. They must preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. People must hear the gospel of Jesus Christ.
4. Hearers must believe the gospel of Jesus Christ.
5. Believers must call on the name of Jesus in repentance.

Lucas then asked the question: “So why don’t we share the gospel with people we encounter?”

Four fears:

1. Rejection.
2. Failure.
3. Loss of relationship.
4. Lack of knowledge.

In the end, all of these fears are selfish. We put our comfort, our reputation, our friendships, and our pride above what matters for eternity. Ultimately, unbelief is at the core.

“This Christianity things – this Project – is not a game. Eternity is at stake here.”

North and South Projects met again last night for the combined meetings. Zach’s goal, in his own words, was that, “Thirty years from now you would be vigilant in you’re relationship with Christ.”  He talked about the necessity of growing in Christ and enjoying Him more. He encouraged us to use discipleship as a means to knowing Christ more.

Zach Simmons, a Bethel University senior, presenting a talk about discipleship

We can search the Bible to find supportive reasoning for the vitality of discipleship in our lives. Philippians 3:17-18 Paul writes to the church of Philippi, “Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.” Paul urgently tells the church to imitate him so they may not walk as enemies of Christ.  Paul is in no way desiring that they idolize him, but he understands the importance of seeking older counsel.  When we imitate lives that reflect Christ, we can come to know Christ in a deeper understanding.

Hebrews 3:12-13 talks about exhorting one another daily so that we may not be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. This leads us to conclude that honest and true community is essential in the Christian’s life.  In addition, imitating others above us is beneficial to our growth.  Zach finalized the talk by discussing the importance of discipleship rather than evangelism.  Yes, our goal is evangelism and the world being reached with the truth, but we need to be making disciples.  By discipling others we can equip them to walk in a manner worthy of Christ and reach others with the gospel.  The ending in reality is two fold.  As we long for Christ we can seek out discipleship for ourselves and disciple others in the gospel.

Everyone dressed up according to their teams. Team Dougie dressed up as the 90′s, Team Strike Force as the 80′s, and Team Fun, Fun, Fun as the 70′s.  Most students planned a trip to the local Goodwill store during the days leading up to the event.  Students had an enjoyable time dressing up as outlandish as possible.  Once at the bowling alley, a guys room was paired with a girls room and they competed against one another.  When the bowling was over, students came back to the project where the team leader girls scooped fudge icream out for everyone.

Everyone enjoyed a night of silly dressing and fun bowling.  Here are some pictures from the evening:

Dancing to the music at the bowling alley

Team Dougie as the 90's

Team Strike Force as the 80's

Team Fun, Fun, Fun, as the 70's

Sunrise prayer on the beach

those going to India.  On the beach, we spent time praying for the Lord to work in the hearts of Indian students.  We prayed they would be receptive to the Gospel, and that He would graciously protect our team as they travel across the world to further His glory.  Saturday evening, we officially sent the India team off with a short time of prayer in the evening.  We continued to pray that they would be united as a team and that they would find joy in ministering in India.

After a day of rest on Sunday, students got back to work yesterday.  In the evening, Matt Reagan gave a talk on Missions.  He talked about the necessity of declaring His name and making disciples throughout all nations.  He said that we should be praying about where the Lord has us in regards to mission.  Not everyone is called to be a missionary oversees, but as a believer, we should make it our mission for the nations to be reached.  This can be done through praying, sending, or going.  Matt pushed us to see the necessity of missions and encouraged us to truly pray and see how we can play a part in it.

Lighting sparklers and singing along to patriotic songs

After the talk, most students enjoyed the Fourth of July here in Garden City.  The beaches were crowded with tourists enjoying the fireworks.  The North Project joined the South project joined together to shoot fireworks, and enjoy a patriotic sing-along.  Everyone was able to appreciate  a night of fun and laughter celebrating Independence Day.

“The point of this whole time is not vain discussions about theology. The aim is love.”

The group started with about 10 or 15 people and dwindled down as the night progressed. Here are the questions asked with a brief summary of the responses. There are quite a few, so feel free to pick and choose what to read.

Dalen Miller: How are the festivals and the new moons and the Sabboth a shadow of the things to come?

The Old Testament law was very strict on these things. All of them are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. For example, the Sabboth is a day of rest, which is a shadow of the ultimate rest, which is found in Jesus.

Lucy Liu: How did Jesus, as one human, die as the sins for everyone?

Perfection is a key factor in how Jesus can cover our sins. In the Old Testament law, there were specific sacrifices for specific sins. In the New Testament, the only sacrifice is the death of one perfect human.

Rom. 5:12-18 talks about this.

Lucy Liu: Why didn’t he go to hell, if he’s taking our punishment?

He is not defeated by death; he was able to overcome death.

Ben Shepherd: How does the death of Christ cover people in the Old Testament? How were they saved, as they didn’t believe in Jesus?

People in the Old Testament believed in God and trusted in his plan. God had a method for allowing people to believe in him.

Heb. 11:13-16 and 39-40 talk about people in the Old Testament being justified by faith.

People are not made perfect in the Old Testament. They are given yearly times with a priest and momentary sacrifices to atone for their sins. And throughout the Old Testament, we can see that all this is temporary.

The key was belief in God. How was that belief flushed out? Through their works – but ultimately, through faith.

Lisa Fitton: Is it possible that God exists outside of time and that the gospel did exist for them?

His death on the cross does extend to them in some way. For us, the basis for our salvation is based on belief in Jesus, so it’s not exactly the same.

Leah Miller: What does that mean to delight yourself in the Lord and you will get the desire of your heart?

The verse is not talking about how we will get things like a new car if we just delight in Christ. It’s talking about how when we delight in him, our desires change – improve – to be the desires God wants them to be. And he gives us those desires.

Anaite Castaneda: If everyone is created for a relationship Christ, why doesn’t everyone have that?

Romans 9 could be a good place to go. While all human beings are created with hearts for knowing God, for some reason, God has chosen to harden some hearts. An example of this is Pharaoh.

AnnaLiese Durling: If, for people in the Old Testament, salvation was about belief in God, can people now be saved by just believing in God (and not the gospel)?

Rom. 1:18 talks about how people who don’t know Jesus are without excuse. It’s only through Jesus by which we can be saved. And all who God created to be saved will be saved.

Emma DeJong: In Jeremiah God tells Jeremiah not to pray for people. What’s that about?

God poured out his wrath in a different way then than he does now, as it has all been taken by Jesus. Also, Jeremiah’s motives in his prayers were more concerned for the people, rather than for God’s glory.

AnnaLiese Durling: Did the Trinity exist before Christ?

In Gen. 1:2, we can see that in the very beginning of all creation, the Spirit was hovering over the face of the waters. The trinity always existed. The Son and the Spirit came into a manifestation of their role with the cross.

AnnaLiese Durling: I have a friend who’s very moral. How do I talk about morality with him?

Christianity is not about becoming a better person. It’s about saying, ‘I’m OK.’ James Lovallo offered that advice to remember that Christianity is not about works; it’s about Christ. That’s what he needs to hear the most.

Rachel Carlson: What does it mean to pray in faith?

God will always answer your prayers. There are three answers he gives: yes, no and maybe.

Rest in what God has done, and pray about that. Expect God to do big things. Also, pray what people prayed in the Bible.

AnnaLiese Durling: In Scripture memorization, how do you choose what to memorize?

It depends on where you are in the moment and where you are in Scripture memory. One of the purposes of memorizing Scripture is to know more about who God is.

At this point, the night became much more of an informal conversation. After a while Justin prayed for everyone in closure.

He discussed why we need to read the Bible and how our thoughts and emotions are involved.

“It is God’s will for us to read His Word,” Justin said.

But what about when we go through spiritual dry periods? Many people don’t read their Bible unless they want to because they don’t want to be legalistic. Justin addressed this, saying it is a misconception that obedience is primarily a result of emotion.

Emotions play a large role in the Christian life, but they are not a prerequisite for obedience. If somebody doesn’t want to read their Bible, not reading would probably be their worst decision.

Justin also addressed the misconception that we are less pleasing to God when we are emotionally dry.

“Christian hedonism … is at the same time thrilling and crushing,” he said.

We get glimpses of joy in Christ, but it can be crushing when we don’t. However, we find that joy when we read the Bible – when we learn more about Christ. Justin said that “the Bible is a source for our emotions.” He reminded everyone that the basis for God’s pleasure in us is not because of us, but because of what Christ has done for us on the cross.

He continued to explain why we should read the Bible.

“God has revealed himself through people, through relationships, through creation – but primarily, he has given us His Word.”

Proverbs 2:1-5: My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you, making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heard to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.

Reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in front of the Statue of Liberty during the scavenger hunt

On Wednesday, Bethel senior, Joe Johnson led evangelism training.  He talked about the reality of hell and how, as believers, we should be living in light of eternity.  This life is short and fleeting, and we have only one hope in Christ.  He encouraged us to tell others of the truth that is in Christ. He alone saves us from eternal wrath.  After the training, students wrote letters to loved ones who may not be believers.

Last night,  the India Team prepared the Project’s social.  Students went to Broadway at the Beach, and had a scavenger hunt.   The teams were split up with one guys’ room and one girls’ room. They were told to do certain things, such as take a picture with a random child, and take a picture laying down in the fountain center.  Everyone had a blast doing outrageous things.  After the social, everyone came back to project to find out the winning team and enjoyed viewing all the pictures that were taken.

Today and tomorrow all of the staff are packing and either driving or flying out.

Last night was the farewell party. To start things out, Jon Saunders, Megan Cogan and Elliot Stokes downed a box of ice cream – not faster than the team leaders, of course.

Then, the students from each campus prayed for their staff, and it’s comforting to know that they are going to continue praying for us at Project.

If you want to pray for any of the 14 staff members from South Project, many of them will be raising support, so prayers would definitely be appreciated for that. Also, pray that the gospel would be greater and sweeter for them as they return, and that it would spread to their families, friends and students.

Here’s a list of South Project’s staff:

Jon and Vanessa Saunders – Michigan State University

Chip and Megan Cogan – Michigan State University

Matt and Lisa Reagan – University of Minnesota

Nick and Katie Stomwell – University of Minnesota

Lydia Schlicht – University of Minnesota

Mike Polley – University of Minnesota

Luke Christie-Perkins – South Dakota State University

Paul and Sam Poteat – St. Thomas

Elliot Stokes – St. Thomas

Matt Reagan described sanctification as, “the killing of sin”.  The more we see Christ as beautiful and as truly satisfying, the more our lives begin to reflect Him.  Isaiah 55:1-3 talks about turning to God who truly satisfies.  So often, we are prone to seek out satisfaction in things of this world. However, the Bible is clear that nothing apart from Christ satisfies our longings.  When we begin to rest in what was accomplished at the cross on our behalf, we taste true joy and life in Christ.

One might ask themself, “Now what?” We know, that Christ has forgiven our sins, shouldn’t we now do something for Him in return? The startling answer is, in fact, “no”. If we think that our obedience pays God back, we are wrong.  The same way you have received him, you now walk in Him.  The process of sanctification in our lives comes by hearing His truth, which is, the gospel of Christ Jesus.

John Piper puts it this way, “The cross is the blazing center of the glory of God.” The more we see what has been done for us on the cross, the more our actions and lives reflect our belief in Christ.  We must get ourselves off of ourselves and onto Jesus Christ, and then overflow into loving others and counting them more significant than ourselves.

The India team hyping everyone up at last evening's meeting

The team arrived on Saturday evening.  They were greeted by friends that were on project.  There is much excitement at both projects with the arrival of the team. Students are full of anticipation to hear of other college students that are eager to spend their summer spreading the gospel to the unreached.

Last night, both projects got together, and the India team gave a presentation.  They introduced the college students that are on the team, and gave testimonies on how the Lord led them to desire to go overseas.  Their testimonies were powerful for us to hear.  It is amazing to see Christ working in lives of college students, giving them vision and passion for reaching the nations.

The team’s leader, Jack Thompson, gave a short talk on missions. He talked about God’s heart for reaching all nations with His good news.  The Lord does not need us to fulfill His will, but graciously uses us to expand His kingdom on earth. Matthew 28:19 says,”Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations and promises to come back once every tribe and tongue knows His name.

Maggie Anderson and Shawn Vradenburg sharing their heart for India

According to joshuaproject.net, there are 2,549 total people groups in India.  Out of those 2549, 2238 are still unreached! That is approximately 88% of the people groups of India that are still unreached.  This is a sobering reality to believers.  Jack encouraged us to be active in reaching the nations. We can do this by praying, giving, or going.  As believers, we can play a part in God’s plan for all to know His name!

Jack shared his passion for the lost world with us.  We are all blessed to hear how the Lord is raising up laboreres to give their time, lives, and money away for people to know Christ.

We had the option of dressing up as a southern bell, hick, or farm animal. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

It’s been a busy week since the last blog post.

Tuesday

We had a typical work day, with team time at 6 p.m. Each team (Goof Troop, Vector, and The Czech Republic) meets once a week to hang out and get to know each other better.

At 8 p.m., everyone returned to their rooms for D-groups – where each group of four or five students learn to love one another more through conversations, studying scripture, and praying.

Ann Nelson is preparing the table for dinner. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

Wednesday

Wednesday mornings student leaders and staff meet at Garden City Baptist Church for Leaders Training. Paul Poteat talked about the deep brokenness of everyone there, as well as everyone not there. He said that we need to remember that there are things deeper in the hearts of students than the things they do.

Then, the guys and girls from each team meets for their D-group. This is a refreshing time for room leaders and their team leader to catch up and offer one another encouragement and advice.

It's a pig and a farmer. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

At 1:30 p.m. the whole project meets for Evangelism Training, followed by evangelism on the beach. This week, Jon Saunders talked about our fear of evangelism, and how our hearts show what we believe about the Father. He gave some practical reasons why we should not be scared of beach evangelism, but he also shared the real reason: God is a good god, and that he wants to give us good things.

So, we all went out in pairs and talked to people on the beach, asking them questions and sharing the gospel. Afterward, teams met to share stories about how it went, and then to pray about those specific people.

Jordan Zurek, dressed as a chicken, bellows to Taylor Swift. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

Wednesday night, many people went out on group dates (where a guys’ room asks a girls’ room on a date). At 8 p.m., Team Czech Republic provided s’mores for the week’s encouragement. Overall, it was a relaxing evening.

Thursday

Again, Thursday is a work day. But Thursday nights, we have our project social. Last night was the social of all socials.

It was a low country boil, which has become an annual event. People had the option of dressing as a hick, a prep, or a barnyard animal. After admiring one another’s costume, everyone

Ben Shepherd lets lose for "500 Miles." (photo by Jenny Hessman)

enjoyed a feast of shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage – all piled on tables. Forks were unnecessary.

The night also included sing along with Paul. This was when Jordan Zurek’s inner Taylor Swift came out, as well as when Ben Shepherd’s Irish identity was confirmed.

Bobbing for limes was also a hit, but fun fact: Limes are cheaper than apples, but they sink. The night was finished with about three or four hours of dancing, even through down-pouring rain.

Friday

Like every Friday, we met at 9 a.m. for Bible Study Training. Elliot Stokes talked about how we need the Bible. “Your relationship with God is one vast need … that’s how it’s supposed to be.”

Then, some people relaxed and some went off to work.

Saturday

Mostly, we worked.

Sunday

To start our day, Mike Polley talked about money and possessions at Life Training. He exposed our selfishness when it comes to these things, and how we are prideful about how much or how little we have. Hearing the gospel was very freeing.

At 11 a.m., everyone went to church, and then afterward rested in a variety of ways. Later that night was an optional women’s time, and the CCP group gave a presentation about India, explaining what they will be doing there and how we can pray for them.

Monday

This is the day the Lord has made! Pray that we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Guys performing their swim routine in the kiddie pool.

After work, everyone came back to a delicious meal.  After eating the meal and waiting for the storm to pass, the boys from project performed routines in the pool.  The goal of their routine was to win a girls room.  The girls had an option to accept them or swap them for a different boys’ room.  The boys permormed hilarious and outrageous routines, vying for the of approval from the girls.

After the routines were finished, and the group dates were established, the students spent the evening on the group date of which was previously planned by the girls’ room.  This time was spent from fun treasure hunts to mini-golfing to beach games.  Everyone loved having a night of funny swim routines and amusable group dates.

Girls being entertained from the balcony

During the afternoon, Reid Jilek gave a talk on evangelism to everyone.  We watched a clip in which an atheist made the point, “How much do you have to hate someone to not share your faith?” He said that if you knew for sure that heaven and hell were real, why would you not be urgently telling others of truth? This stuck out to many of us because we often shy away from sharing our faith. However, the reality is startling, that unless people know Christ, they will be forever eternally sepertaed from Him.  This comment gave students much to think about.

After evangelism training, students went out on the beach to share their faith.  This was a wonderful time for students to practice sharing what they believe with others.  Many students desire to continue praying with those that they had shared their faith with.  Even though people may not immediately accepted Jesus Christ as the way to God, it can be seeds that are planted.

He began with discussing Acts 17:25.”Nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.” He had us consider whether or not we truly believe this in our everyday lives. The good news is that as believers, we simply receive from Him.  We cannot do anything to add to this, It is finished! He is continually giving to us, and we receive what He has accomplished on the cross for us.

The gospel is clear in the Bible that though we are sinful, Christ came and died on the cross so that we may experience forever the grace of God.  Christ promises to be our advocate forevermore, pleading for us before God.

Matt discussed some barriers in our lives that prevent us from knowing Christ’s love for us. We are continually distracted by personal performance and performance from God.  Although we have heard the truth of the cross, we seem to always seek ways to gain approval from both God and man.  Throughout our lives our sinful nature seeks to find ways to turn the gospel into laws.Romans 4:4-5 says, “Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness.” No longer do we have to work for God’s approval! We can repent of sin in our hearts, and turn to Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith. It is completely FINISHED because of Christ!

After the talk, there was a time of worship and prayer. The room was filled with people worshipping the Lord, praying to Him, and crying over the wonderful news that was so clearly heard.  Back on project, many students were having conversations with others rejoicing over what the Lord is doing in their heart.  Last night depicted so clearly that the gospel truly is the power for salvation. Please pray for the students whose hearts were open to this for the first time last night. Pray that they would continue to be rooted in Christ, bearing fruit.  We are delighted and in awe of God for bringing people to understanding of Christ last night.

He described it as “our whole life,” “the thing that is the center of all history” and “the clearest picture of who Jesus is.”

For most of his message, Matt talked about how good the Good News is.

Hebrews 10:14: For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

But how can we hear this and so often feel nothing? How can there be such numbness to the gospel in our hearts?

Matt brought up three sedatives that put us to sleep when it comes to the gospel.

One is a shallow understanding of sin. This blog post could never fully describe the weight that was felt in the fellowship hall of Garden City Baptist last night. With full conviction, holding nothing back, Matt preached about sin that was in every heart in the room.

“You must get to a place in your life when you say, ‘how could he possibly love me?’”

We must know we are broken to understand the gospel.

Another sedative is the distraction of personal performance. This one hit home for many people (probably everyone). He talked about how we perform for people, and we perform for God. He stressed how there is nothing we can do for God.

Romans 4:4-5: Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness…

There is nothing that we do. Matt quoted something he has read: “the law requires 100 percent doing; the gospel requires 100 percent not doing.”

Luke 18:9-14 is a perfect passage for what we have a right to say before the Lord. “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” We can’t pay God back with obedience or gratitude, and there is nothing we can do to improve him or improve ourselves.

But, this is such good news!

1 Cor. 3: 21-23: So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s.

All work has been done. It is finished. Now, we can rejoice that all is our’s because we are Christ’s.

The third and final sedative is the forgotten reality of eternity. We are now free to say that God’s wrath has been taken away from me forever, and I will never see it.

Matt said, “The rest of your life should be a celebration.”

Guys from Northwestern getting to know each other more during campus time

Yesterday morning, Stephen Discher gave a talk regarding technology.  He discussed both the benefits of technology and the trappings we often fall into.  He explained that technology in and of itself, is not bad.  In fact, Christ has created all things good. (1 Timothy 4:4)  However, our sinful hearts turn good things into idols.  Therefore, as believers in Christ. we want to be aware of technology as an idol so we can effectively use technology to spread the gospel of Christ.  We want to be faithful ministers of all that the Lord has blessed us with, including technology.

After Steve’s talk, everyone split up for campus time. During campus time, students were able to form relationships with other students from their campuses.  After campus time, everyone went to their designated church in garden city.  Sunday morning proved to be an enjoyable time for students to worship Christ.

Enjoying ice cream during a group date

During the afternoon, everyone spent time relaxing.  Some people went to the beach, some played pool ball, and others went on group dates.  This time was a time for them to re-cooperate before, again, another busy week ahead.  At night, there was an optional worship time where they were able to worship and praise Christ though song. Praise the Lord that he created us to need and enjoy time of rest!

At 8:45 before church, Mike Polley talked about working to rest, saying that Christ has given us rest in the gospel.

“Stay in the rest that we’ve been given,” he said.

At this point at Project, weariness has started to set in for many people. Full-time jobs and nightly project activities, for some, make schedules much busier than what is normal.

Mike reminded us how we have already received ultimate rest, and how we have the opportunity to give it to others.

“Only Christians can share eternal rest,” he said.

He also went into some helpful tips about working and resting, explaining how there is a rest in remembering that God sanctifies us.

So today, in a very practical sense, people have been resting. Many have visited the beach in the 95-degree weather, and the local coffee shop has had people in and out of it all day.

Here are the tips Mike gave everyone to think about when it comes to work and rest:

1. Know yourself.

When it comes to a work ethic, are you on the lazy end or the over-working, anxious side?

2. Get good sleep.

3. Be efficient in the use of time.

Be devoted to work when you work and be devoted to sleep when you sleep. This will result in better work and better rest.

4. Be thankful.

“When you’re thankful, you’re awake to the gift you’ve been given?”

5. Take a day off.

This doesn’t mean sleeping all day. It’s a day for whatever is refreshing. This may be going for a run, taking a nap, or reading a book. It depends on the person.

6. Pace yourself.

You don’t always need to go 100 percent. It’s OK to run at a slower pace that can last.

7. Make a weekly schedule.

Schedule a time to rest, and make sure to make it a priority.

Maradith Saunders is one of the many students working at Walmart.

…It’s off to work we go.

A majority of the students on Project have been blessed with full-time jobs in the community. Over 50 work at Walmart. Also, there are some at Chic-Filet, Krystal Burger, McDonalds, Sonic, Buy Low, KFC, Painters, and a few various internships.

For many students, Saturdays mean longer hours, as there are no scheduled Project events.

Tonight, people are relaxing from a long day flipping burgers and stocking shelves. Some people are playing pool ball, some are throwing a frisbee, some are playing cards, and some are plucking the ukulele. As Rachel Sandager, Caleb Nordquist, Lucy Lou, and Max Cruz play Egyptian Rat Race (a card game), they reflect on their day.

Rachel (Walmart):

“I could smile for days now with all my practice as a greeter.”

Caleb (McDonalds):

“From beginning to end, you’re just making sandwiches, and you really don’t have time to think.”

Lucy (Walmart):

“My feet hurt, but I’m happy.”

Max (internship at a vet clinic):

“I got to save lives.”

A couple guys are reading Colossians together. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

This morning everyone walked across the parking lot for Bible Study Training at Garden City Chapel.

Elliot Stokes went through what the Bible is and why we read it.

“Here are the most important things about the universe … and you’re being walked through those things (when you read the Bible),” he said.

Elliot started by explaining that all of the Scriptures are about Jesus.

“If we miss that, it’s not just that we’re reading the Bible wrong. It means we have a heart defect.”

He stressed how the Bible is God’s spoken word – that God literally speaks things into existence. He creates and defines truth by his words.  He referenced 2 Timothy 3:15-16 and 2 Peter 3:15-16 to explain this.

Elliot called everyone to open the Bible realizing that they are hearing from God.

He also talked about how “the Bible tells you who God is, and people don’t like that.” People like to make up things about God and choose what they like or don’t like to believe.

“The real God is way, way, way better than anything you would make up,” Elliot said.

Titus 3:3 says, “For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.”

“That’s you,” Elliot said. “The Bible tells you the hard truth about yourself.”

The last point Elliot made was that “the Bible didn’t die for your sins.”

“The Bible is not God,” he said. “It reveals God.”

After the message, some of the students said this was convicting, reflecting on how it can be easy to seek forgiveness by getting in the Word rather than falling before the cross.

Bible Study Training is a weekly event. Every Friday morning, a different message is presented, and then we practice the inductive method of reading the Scriptures. This morning, we read today’s verse from Colossians: Col. 1:24.

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church.

Andrew and Lauren Holbrook talking about biblical relationships

Andrew and Lauren Holbrook gave the relationships seminar.  Andrew Holbrook is the regional director of Campus Outreach Charlotte.  In their talks, they highlighted the fact that relationships are to point us more to Jesus Christ, not merely another person.  In addition, they walked through how biblical marriages symbolize Christ’s love for His church.  They also answered many misconceptions our culture has towards relationships.

Many students were encouraged by these talks.  There was much conversation by the students evaluating their relationships and setting goals and guidelines for healthy relationship. Remya Thomas, an international recent graduate from St. Stephens in Delhi, India, was quoted saying, “It’s not all about marriage, and It’s not about the intimacy we share with a man or a woman, but marriage is a glimpse of the intimacy we will share with the Lord.” This thought was what stuck out to her the most from relatiosnhips week.

Remya Thomas is attending our project this summer.  Former Cross Cultural Projects from CO Minneapolis have come to St. Stephens College in the past summers.  They have been able to minister to her and help equip her to lead other women.  We are so blessed by her coming this summer. Last night, students gathered

The encouragement for this week. In light of relationships week, the men served the girls ice cream after evangelism training yesterday.

outside and prayed together for the people of Dhobi, India.  They prayed that these people would hear the gospel of Christ. Remya was able to provide us with insight into the people.

Project was incredibly blessed by the Holbrooks coming to speak about relationships.  Students are excited to grow in godly relationships with one another and in dating relationships.  We are also delighted that Remya is with us this summer. Her being here is a continual reminder to pray for the nations that have not yet been reached with the gospel.

Paul Poteat and Matt Reagan discuss various theological questions with a group of students at Project. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

“This is heavy.”

Matt Reagan said that a couple times last night as a part of his response to the questions at Theology Time.

Every Sunday night, a couple people on staff answer any questions students may have about God, Christianity, and anything else. Last week, Matt Reagan and Jon Saunders and about 20 students huddled under the tent during a massive thunderstorm to have this discussion.

Three nights ago, Paul Poteat and Matt Reagan answered a variety of questions, from heaven and hell to angels and demons to sin and salvation. The format of the discussion is question-and-answer. Students ask questions, and Paul and Matt point to places all over the Bible for answers.

So, here are three of the questions asked and the responses given, as well as a complete list of all the questions asked.*

What does the Bible say about levels of heaven? – Josh Drost, Michigan State University

They are not the layers found in Dante’s Inferno, but the idea of levels in heaven is Biblical. 1 Cor. 3: 9-17 talks about this.

Matt said that Not extra possessions in heaven.

In 1 Thes. 2, the apostle Paul talks about how the people he is writing to are his “glory and joy” at the coming of Jesus. Matt stressed that this language of boasting and reward ultimately gives Jesus all the glory.

There will be rewards in heaven. Matt said, “You ought not worry too much about your heavenly rewards.” He stressed that there will be no envy. The way we will think about our own rewards and other rewards will be in a completely sinless way.

Paul added that rewards don’t come when we think intentionally about the rewards. It’s the gospel that produces good fruit. “Focus on who Jesus is for you and not who you are for Jesus,” Matt said.

They also pointed out that Luke 12:47-48 talks about levels of Hell.

If someone were to ask, “Why can we not atone for our own sin,” where do I point them? – Ben Degroote, Michigan State University

Matt and Paul brought up Hebrews 7-9, suggesting that Ben look there to understand how the sacrificial system is insufficient.

Then, a woman who had stopped to listen shouted from the back, “Romans 6:23.” She said she was there with a small group, and she said, “that’s the perfect verse!” For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matt just said, “Amen.”

At the end of the discussion, Paul added a reference to Rom. 8:5-7, explaining how the flesh is hostile to God.

What exactly are angels? How do they interact with humans? – Ammie Lace, University of Minnesota

Paul said that one of his past professors told him that of all the ethical things we deal with, God is number one and angels are number two. Paul also brought up 2 Kings 6:16, where Elisha had faith in angels during battle. He added that people in America are deluded that supernatural forces are not actually real.

Matt said that there is a whole other realm of cosmic powers that we just don’t see – that angels and demons are at war. He mentioned Daniel 10 as an example of this.

Paul brought up how in 1 Cor. 11:10, the language shows how the people of that time knew about angels – more than we do now.

All the questions:

• What does it mean when we say that Jesus was begotton?

• What does the Bible say about levels of heaven?

• Is Hell God turning away from you in rejection or to you in anger?

• Is it possible for people to fall from Heaven (like Satan)?

• In Colossians 1, what is the kingdom of his Beloved Son?

• Would it have been just for God not to save anyone?

• If someone were to ask, “Why can we not atone for our own sin,” where do I point them?

• What do Jews believe about when the Messiah comes?

• How did Adam and Eve populate the world?

• What exactly are angels? How do they interact with humans?

• How do demons fit into us being accountable for our sins?

• Where is the name Lucifer in the Bible?

• What’s the difference between a new earth and heaven?

• My roommate thinks she can become God by being in nature more. What can I say to her?

*Including the responses to each one of these questions would make this post longer than a daily blog post should be. This might also be a good time to ask for forgiveness for any poor note taking on my part. If I include exact words from anyone, I will put them in quotations. Otherwise, assume that I am paraphrasing.

The Goof Troop listens to the judges remarks for their performance at the boat social. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

Five-cent coffee is just around the corner. But at the 2011 Summer Training Project, caffeine has nothing to do with staying awake.

Awake is the theme for the summer, and Elliot Stokes gave the first theme training June 2. He said there is an awake way to live and a sleepy way to live. We want to be awake to all spiritual truth, and we want to see the world through a Biblical lens. This is what we will be focusing on for the two months in Garden City, S.C.

So what’s been happing at Project for the past two weeks?

The staff and student leaders arrived late-afternoon May 30 and were instantly hard at work. In a matter of a couple days, 37 rooms that hadn’t been unlocked since last summer were made livable.

Students at Project work at many locations, including Walmart. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

On June 2, the rest of Project arrived. As each new car unloaded, Larry Martini’s energy level kept rising. After the 22-hour car ride, the disciples were greeted with lots of cheering, Jordan Zurek sprawled on top of their car, and a popsicle.

It hasn’t taken long for the room leaders and disciples to get to know one another. Each room has one leader and three or four disciples. In each relatively small space, friendships have been formed, meals have been made, sin has been exposed, and dance parties have happened.

For the Kung Fu Panda II social, the team leaders chose birds for their jungle animal. (photo by Jenny Hessman)

Everyone has heard a variety of thought-provoking and convicting messages. At the second theme training, Matt Reagan talked about being in awe of God. He said that God is glorified by us “receiving him and enjoying him.”

Students have also grown through learning about evangelism. Jon Saunders challenged people by saying that we are natural evangelists for what we love most. Each Wednesday, everyone at Project goes out on the beach and shares the gospel with people. On June 8, people paired off and evangelized for a little over an hour. Then, everyone sat around the pool and shared how their discussions went, praying about specific individuals.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays are work days. Students work at a variety of places, including Walmart, McDonalds, Krystal Burger, Sonic, and Buy Low. The Lord was so gracious to provide every person a job, and we are working to be thankful as well as joyful about work.

Every Thursday night, we have a project social. We have had two so far. For the first, everyone went to see Kung Fu Panda II, and all the disciples dressed their room leaders up as a jungle animal. It was pretty interesting. For the second social, we had a “boat social.” To sum it up: there were three spectacular performances by the pool – one with pilgrims, one with pirates, and one with The Little Mermaid. Each team had to build a boat that could take people across the pool, all the while acting out the scene.

On Sunday mornings, each team attends a different church that is close to Project. Sunday nights, there is optional worship and optional theology time. For many people, Sundays are a day to rest.

Note from Emma DeJong (author):

Hello! I’m very excited to be blogging this summer about STP. This first post is an extremely brief summary of what has happened so far. Somebody could probably right a novel about each day, but unfortunately, our schedule is pretty packed.

I’m hoping to post at least once every day. As of right now, I’m planning on posting each morning about something that happened the previous day. So basically, stay tuned and be ready to hear all about Project!

This is an email reminder that you are having a MANDATORY Informational/prep party for the Summer Training Project on Friday, May 6 at 6pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church North Campus. If you need a ride, contact a staff member or an older student that will be attending the party.

Dinner will be provided.

We will be filling out a few applications for jobs online, so bring your laptop if you have one. In order to fill out the application, you will also need the following information.
1. Social Security Number
2. Jobs information:
- Two references from past employers
- those two references’ phone numbers
3. Employment history
- bring info about your last 4-6 jobs
- the more you put in the better your pay could be
4. Educational Experience
- dates you’ve attended college
5. Special Certificates and Licenses
- Commercial Drivers License, automotive licenses, etc.
6. Language Skills
- if you are proficient in a 2nd language

Bank Accounts:
• Every summer we strongly encourage students to sign up for a local bank account in Myrtle Beach, SC
• We can’t force you to sign up for an account, but we dont want you to have to pay $10 fee every time you need to cash a check
• It generally works very well to have an account in Myrtle Beach before you start your job at project
• If you have a wells fargo account, that now works with Wachovia
We are providing you the resource tomorrow at the Prep Party to get your account setup before we get to project so you can have your debit/check cards established when you arrive.

Please Bring to PREP PARTY:
• Drivers License
• 2nd form of ID (Social Security Card | Passport | Birth Certificate)

Students that attend Bethel University or Northwestern College will meet at Bethlehem Baptist Church – North Campus (map below).

View Bethlehem Baptist Church, North Campus in a larger map

Both parties start at 6PM
Dinner will be provided
Bring your parental authorization form, support procedures form, any support money you have received (filled out with proper forms), and a laptop.

Contact a staff member if you have any questions.

You can apply for the opportunity to take part in a Summer Project or Summer Resource Center Intership

We have the following internships available in the following areas:

• Communications / Marketing
• Social Media
• Photography
• Video
• Graphic Design
• Financial / Accounting / Business

Nick Stromwall leads the internship and will mentor you throughout the duration of the internship

Most of the internships are unpaid, however, many schools offer you the ability to earn college credit by completing an internship.

Please fill out this webform: to apply and select your interested.

Please fill this out by April 10th, 2011

Nick will be in contact with you around then for more details.

A copy of the form is attached below.
SupportOverageRequestForms_gas

“Long for Jesus and you will grow up.”

Have a plan.

Larry Martini encourages us to be intentional in our relationships and how we go about building our community and evangelizing to others in this coming school year.

“But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed.Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:14-15).

Steve Discher attempts formulate a framework for suffering and how it points to Christ.

Matt Messerly talks about the theology of family, how Jesus values family but also how we can let family become an idol if we are not careful.

Steve Discher shares on how we are made to be in community and encourages us to live in the light, to be accountable to each other in our successes and our failures seeing what Christ has done in us.

Jens Paulson shares on the three P’s of the NAture of Biblical Change: Planted, Produce, and Process.

There is actually less than a week left! Everyone’s last day at work was on Saturday and Wal-mart people were working early so the AiT soccer was moved to the evening (a lot more pleasant because it wasn’t as hot). On Sunday, Ken Currie led Life Training – Why People Quit Campus Outreach (theological dissonance, no time in the schedule, the pain of a broken relationship or hidden sin). Campus Time was moved to the evening, so there was free time, church and then our last Sunday to go in the pool or the beach. For Campus Time (from around 6pm-9pm) each campus met up and shared their vision and experiences from the summer – some of them played sports beforehand. Curfew was at midnight, as it will be for the rest of Project as no one works on Monday.

Walking back to Project from Life Training

9am found us at Bible Study Training and after some rapping from Sahr and Greg we dove into the topic “How do I study the Bible without Bible Study Training Each Week?” lead by Jens Paulson. Basically, we can do it by dependence (IOUS), discipline (have a plan) and community (getting someone else involved).

Here is the link to the Bible reading plan for Shirkers and Slackers
http://www.ransomfellowship.org/publications/notes_biblereadingprogram.pdf

Everyone headed off to work and in the afternoon staff started to arrive back, it was great to see them again as well as the Curries!

AiT's official picture taken after BST

After work all the groups were preparing and practicing their skits

Tables were set out and the co-workers started arriving

Time to talk, eat and show them Project

As the sun went down we headed to the chapel

MCs Aaron and Elizabeth introduced the many shows

Hardees guy’s poem and songs

The co-workers loved it

Levi Peterson shared the gospel using Ephesians 2:1-8

Pray for the students as they have only two more days of work with their co-workers and the conversations that will happen after last night’s social. It was very encouraging to see so many co-workers come and know that they have heard the gospel.

Steve Discher talks on the significance of discipleship in the pursuit of Christ, both for disciples and for leaders.

Matt Messerly makes a five-step outline of how we can redeem the time that has been wasted in our sinfulness by actively pursuing the redeeming wisdom of Christ.
1. We waste time.
2. We are foolish.
3. Jesus redeems our time.
4.We are made to be wise.
5. We actively redeem our time.

.

Everyone headed off to work bearing posters and invitations for the Job Social on Thursday; we are hoping lots of co-workers will come! The groups of people at different jobs are each preparing a skit, a dance, a rap or another show for their co-workers. After work and Ait everyone gathered together for the last team time together and then D-group. Pray for gospel conversations at work and AiT in the little time we have left!

Sunset

There was soccer on Saturday as well as a full day of work for most people; it was the Wal-Mart’s worker’s last Saturday! On Sunday Matt Messerly shared about “Family”, how we are to love our family but love Jesus so much more. We have a spiritual family in Christ (born again into it, and adopted by God) and that we can easily fall into idolizing our family or neglecting them. There was Campus Time and then everyone went to their churches (second last week of Church, so sad!). There was much appreciated free time in the afternoon (beach, group dates, meeting up with co-workers) and then at 8.20pm everyone headed off to the Brazilian Steakhouse RIOZ for a half price all you can eat meal with our co-workers. Not all of the co-workers invited came but there were a good number, keep praying that many would come to the evangelistic Job Social this coming Thursday and for the conversations that went on last night as well as them seeing us in community.

Students with Bi-Lo co-workers

“If not you, who? If not now, when?”

(split up into “part 2a” and “part 2b”)

Matt Reagan borrows imagery from the film Alice in Wonderland (2010), comparing our self to the Red Queen in rebellion against the White Queen, Christ. In doing so he reminds us to whom our life belongs and the battle against our flesh.

Charlie Brooks takes our fear of submission and shares on the benefits of becoming committed to the church.

Team Leader Nikki Seviola, shares her life.

Getting in the word before work...

Second last week of work, time is suddenly flying by way too fast. It was a very hot and humid day with a breeze (a sure sign of rain) and sure enough, it came as we were having our Project meal – Kyoto! That evening Forever Young and the Pit Crew joined together – they are organizing this week. After Jack told everyone that we were in trouble for littering we were not expecting a sudden climax as a group came out to do a dance for us! (It was all lies to make an anticlimax!)
Then we saw a bit of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” in preparation for Thursday’s social. Steve Discher shared on “The Cost of Vulnerability” – we need to be vulnerable in community and we can be because of the gospel. We were encouraged to share “our dirt” with people, we are free to do so and should because sin is so deceitful and progressive (starts small, grows quickly).

Leah Elbert, Sophomore at the University of Minnesota.

Credits:

Artist: Cory Asbury

Album: Selah (Instrumental) [feat. Nathan Prior],

Faithful to the End, Let Me See Your Eyes.

p 2009 Forerunner Music

“I’ve been working at Bi-Lo grocery store in the deli this summer. A co-worker that the Lord has laid on my heart is a guy named TJ. We had a really slow night the other day and I started asking him some questions about what he believed. I was able to share the Gospel story with him. He didn’t seem to be impacted at all, saying that the Bible was too radical to believe, but I am praying for more opportunities to talk with him and that God will soften his heart and open his eyes.” Katie

Back to work and Ait (although the gym was closed because of the holiday so all the training was outside in the heat, the AC will now be appreciated again). There was no Project meal and for theme night, after watching some bad American Idol auditions (in preparation for good ones at Thursday’s social), Steve Discher talked about “The Cost of Discipleship” and went over discipleship’s meaning, what muzzles it (or prevents it, he wanted 3 Ms) and our motivation for discipleship. He encouraged us to take advantage of discipleship this summer and then to use our time in college wisely, as well as to learn from someone else and look for someone to pour into, because of the grace and love poured out on us.

One of the teams praying with Mike

On Sunday 4^th July, Matt Messerly spoke on Time Management (our time and our life has been redeemed, it doesn’t belong to us anymore so we are to manage, budget, spent, invest and give it away). There was Campus Time after Life Training for the different campuses on Project to get together again and then everyone went to church.

Finding out CO/Project stories by speed dating - U of M Campus Time

In the afternoon in celebration of the 4^th there were volleyball games going on as well as a pool “spoons” game. Project meal was moved to Sunday (instead of Monday) and Larry made the burgers for our cookout! That night everyone went to the beach to watch the fireworks (or went to Surfside to see the display). A lucky few were able to enjoy a boat ride from the manager at Bi-Lo and then go to a Brazilian restaurant in celebration of the 4^th – the people at Bi-Lo have established relationships with us over the years of STP and are happy to bless us with these things.  A number of co-workers have been coming to Project to find out what it is all about, pray for our relationships with them and gospel conversations.

After work and Ait there was the great awaited photo-scavenger hunt social: “Where in the world is the CCP team?” We had to photograph different people in the groups (a guys room and a girls room were teamed up) doing crazy things at Broadway on the Beach Boulevard (5, 10 and 20 points for different activities) and if anyone found a dressed up member of the CCP team it was 100 points. We gathered back at Project after 2 hours of hunting, waited for the results (saw and learnt some Scottish dancing in the meantime) and saw the pictures – Erin and Nina’s team won!

Walk like an Egyptian infront of the pyramid and make a pyramid out of cups

Larry and his moustache

We broke up into pairs to talk about what our motives are to pray over them and then each different group headed off either to Surfside beach or to the beach opposite our hotel. Everyone goes in pairs or in threes, usually with a room leader, team leader or this week a member of the CCP and walk up to people on the beach to share our faith.

Leah, Eb and Raquel

Chris and Joe

Jon and Reid

At about 3.45pm everyone gets back to Project and debriefs with their team – sharing stories, names and praying for the people that we talked to. Yesterday there was ice-cream for us all after debriefing and it was great!

Praying after a debrief

Sunrise prayer

5.30am found lots of the students waiting around the poolside to go to the beach for sunrise prayer. Groups of about 10 people split up with a CCP member to pray for their trip as well as other parts of the world. Everyone headed off to work after that and there was AiT in the afternoon. Some of the guys from Crabtree Memorial are coming to some talks and Lenny has been talking to Corie, a guy that trains at the gym, pray that those are AiT could have gospel conversations. There was team time and then D-groups. A CCP team member went to each of the D-groups to share exactly what they would be doing in India and answer any questions so the students could get a picture of what the India team are really going to go through.

This is a recap of what Relationship’s week was all about (last week). Special Guest, Stephan Dischaer

Christopher Hull, from Sioux Fall, SD tells us how the gospel has impacted and changed his life.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
2 Corinthians 5:17

“One Sunday at Barnes and NobleI met a 21 year-old named Ashley who started talking to me and the conversation got to STP. I explained that it was a growth experience for believers in Jesus Christ.  She told me she was a Christian and when I asked her what that meant to her, she said that she tried to live a pretty good life and believed in God.  She further explained that her mother and brother are atheists – her father is a Muslim.  She said that she became a Christian through a friend.  I asked Ashley if she would be interested in coming to one of our STP meetings, possibly on Monday night, and she seemed very interested.  We exchanged numbers and I will be calling her closer to Monday.  Please pray that Ashley would come on Monday night and that the Lord would speak to her and that she would believe in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior.”

Linda Sandager

The D-groups were at night after a morning off for most people, the Evangelism Training (Obstacles to Evangelism: Unbelief) and beach evangelism. At 10.15pm there was the staff send-off (they are leaving Project to travel and use the summer time to raise support before coming back for the last week) where some students said a few words (open mike) and then gathered in campuses to pray for their own staff.

Saddle up! The hats Matt and Lisa Reagan found before the last part of the talk

After another long day of work and AiT everyone rushed back in time to be ready for team time at 6pm. It is sweet to be part of a team and spend time getting to know not only each other but what everyone else has been learning up till now. At 7.30pm everyone headed to the chapel for Relationships Part II. There was a focus on the gospel as the most important thing, biblical principles, advice as well as Matt and Lisa’s story. We then went to Garden City Baptist to finish the meeting and had guy/girl breakouts for Q&A sessions. Curfew was extended until midnight.

Half-time at the AiT soccer game

Leeland at Walmart

The parents had a great weekend, on Saturday there was breakfast as well as a talk from Matt and Paul about what happens here and the students had a chance to share their experiences with the parents. Other than that there was AiT and work for the rest of the students. In Life Training on Sunday Charlie Brooks shared about God’s will (ultimately, our sanctification – the important thing is the person that we are becoming, not our circumstances). Everyone went to church at 11am and had a day of rest. There was Praise & Worship led by Elliot Stokes and then Theology time with Matt Reagan and Jon Saunders.

Kate and Sneha in Dunkin Donuts

Parent’s weekend has started and they have a chance to see their kids, see Project and get a feel for what we are doing here – as well as enjoy the beach! In Bible Study Training Reid Jirek talked about “What if I don’t want to study the Bible?” I don’t have time, I don’t feel like it, I don’t need it are some of the excuses we give but the root comes from unbelief – we don’t see how much our whole Christian life is one massive need because of our sin and don’t believe how good the gospel really is. There was a very useful informal Q&A session on Philippians and then everyone headed off to their different jobs.

Evangelism Training

Sam Poteat giving the girls talk

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After a quiet morning for the disciples and leadership training, Elliot Stokes talked about how our fear is an obstacle to evangelism because the excessive desire for the approval of others keeps us from obeying God. When we fear, we seek approval from others but if we don’t fear we can love instead of needing people. We are to focus on Jesus and set our eyes on him, not on ourselves so remember how big our God is. The different teams headed to the beach or the pier and shared the gospel, this time equipped with not only the bridge diagram but the possibility to share their testimony with what God is doing in their lives now by the gospel. There was free time and then the guys and the girls split up  – the guys played ultimate Frisbee and then had a talk and the girls had the equivalent of a sleepover (for 3 hours) and heard a testimony, a talk and had a Q&A session. Learning and gaining wisdom from the staff was very encouraging, humbling and useful.

Campus Outreach Minneapolis Summer Training Project 2010 – Week 2 Highlights

Walmart workers waiting to get to work

Thank the Lord that most people are now starting work (except a group of Wal-mart people that start on Thursday), Project is definitely quieter. The Athletes in Training had a sprint work-out, lifted and then had a time of praying and sharing what they were all going through. This week’s team “Forever Young” (I wanna be…) are in charge of the events so everyone had pizza, ants on a hill and watermelon quickly and then everyone headed down to the pier for the group photo to be taken (that picture will appear here at some point). It took a while, but it was a beautiful sunny day and a great time. At 8pm we had the Theme Night meeting and after a game of the staff pretending to be someone else (and getting students to guess who they were) we had a talk on “The Cost of Freedom” where the gospel was explained again and many were overwhelmed by the fact that the cost of us getting to God has been paid for in Jesus’ blood. Christianity is about us resting and celebrating what God has done for us. The costs he asks us to give up for should be no cost at all, but something given up joyfully.

Mat 13:44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field”

Smiling up at the official photographer on the pier

On Friday mornings no one is working, and there was a Bible Study Training session lead by Paul Poteat on “What is the Bible?” That day many people headed to either Dunkin Donuts before or after the meeting to celebrate national donut day (buy a drink, get a free donut) and then in the afternoon and evening a lot of people were working. Those that don’t start until next week spent time in the word, on the beach or at the Laundromat.

Brook working in Anthropology

Not quite a day of rest, most people work either in the morning and afternoon or from afternoon until nighttime. The Athletes in Training went to the gym at 8.30am and played a game of soccer followed by some lifting. There are still a number of people that have jobs but haven’t been able to start working yet and are waiting for when they can start up.

People have been settling down into their jobs, others start officially next Monday but everyone is starting to get the feel of how Project will be running.

Having a meal at Project and getting to know each other

Campus Outreach Minneapolis Summer Training Project 2010 – Week 1 Highlights

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