One of the primary contributors to our newest resource, Ministry to College Students, is Benson Hines. Below he responds to some college ministry fears that he's encountered.

Why should we use greater means for college ministry when students will be with us for only a few years? And does it make sense to spend time developing strategy when the students we're targeting will soon be replaced by others?

First, the concern over only having a few years with students places undue focus on the length of the time period rather than the intensity of those college years. During those four or five years, students often see spiritual, academic, emotional, and social growth to a far greater degree than in the several years prior to or following college. Those who have been impacted by strong college ministries (like myself) can point to drastic growth in even one year's time–let alone four or five years.

This is also a hinge moment in a person's life, in which actions and decisions carry particular import ...