Andrews University students left the classroom and experienced the first-hand joy of ministry.
The Department of Religion and Biblical Languages of Andrews University held its 2019 Field School of Evangelism, a three-week joint initiative with the Wisconsin Conference, in Milwaukee, Wis., May 13‒June 2. The first week of Field School began with students attending classes taught by Dr. Rodney Palmer, professor and praxis director for the Religion Department.
Fifteen Theology majors conducted their own meetings for the remaining weeks of Field School, rather than joining an experienced evangelist who was leading a series. Placed in teams, students alternated sermons in the 10-part series captioned, “Pathways of Hope.” Sabbath and nightly meetings were held in nine locations. The two weeks of preaching climaxed with six baptisms, one profession of faith and twelve additional decisions for baptism at a later date. As part of the post-campaign activities, two students remained in Milwaukee for ten additional weeks to assist with follow-up work.
According to Rodney Palmer, Field School director, “The 2019 Field School of Evangelism greatly aided our students in their ability to preach the gospel, work with congregations and, through the Holy Spirit’s leading, bring people into a saving relationship with Jesus. Above all, it demonstrated the passion and dedication of our Theology majors in fulfilling the gospel commission of Jesus Christ.”
One student summed it up best when he stated, “The Field School opened my eyes to more of what evangelism and ministry are like. ... God stretched me, but also confirmed His call to me. I hope to be a better evangelistically minded pastor, a better preacher and a more holistic pastor, focusing not just on the reaping but the preparation and the nurturing as well, because of this experience.”
