“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that [a] they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:13- 16.
Dormitory life is a tactical and dynamic place reflecting the heavenly kingdom here on earth. Serving as an Assistant Dean for Women’s Hostel for almost two years at Spicer Adventist University was a thrilling and unforgettable experience. I had been a student living in the same dorm, but life had radically changed since then. My students were from different parts of the world and from different denominations.
It was clear to everyone, however, that we were an Adventist dorm. Morning and evening worships were mandatory irrespective of religion, caste, or creed and everyone had to be present. There was a Bible study group as well as prayer groups.
There were struggles and conflicts dealing with diverse religious groups, but God was there to help solve the problems and His presence was very much felt. Prayers were offered and held in various student rooms, and the seeds of truth were planted in many hearts. Many were touched by the prayers and counsels that were given and some testified that God was good.
For me, it was less of a job than a relationship shared between the students and me and God. During the two years of service there were frustrations and struggles, but the Lord was good and working within me to build His kingdom in the dorm.
Dorm ministry is about nurturing and mentoring and helping students develop skills in life, leadership, and healthy relationships. It is preparing each student’s life for the heavenly citizenship. These young souls need our love, sympathy and the fruits of the spirit that would project God’s love to them. All dorm decisions are laid in God’s hand and guidance.
Dormitory ministry is about discipleship and friendship. It is about reflecting Christ’s image on the students and living an exemplary life for His glory and honor. It is bridging the gap between the students and the Dean. The gap is closed by just loving them the way they are and being patient. Jesus has modeled the way of ministry by being with the simple and ordinary people here on earth. He was criticized and mocked for being with the sinners and ordinary people, but he never abandoned them. Similarly, as dorm workers we strive to share God’s love to our students. We need to connect with our students and speak the truth with love, compassion, patience and with boldness.
Note: Article written and posted in English
Author
Carol Kingston
Carol Linda Kingston served as an instructor at the English Center of the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies in the Philippines (AIIAS) for five years. She is currently a PhD student in Educational Administration with TESOL as the emphasis and served as the Asst. Dean of the Women’s Hostel and English teacher for elementary through junior college level at Spicer for ten years.