The missions program is not directed specifically toward the few who wish to commit long-term to that type of work.
Instead it’s designed to equip every student with the knowledge of God’s Word and purpose, along with self-awareness that will lead them to identy the plan God has for their lives, according to Paul Stevens.
“It’s not geared toward a small number of students, such as those studying Bible and wanting to move across the world to become long-term missionaries,” said Stevens, the missions coordinator for special projects and events.
Eventually, he said, every Lipscomb student will participate in a mission trip during their studies at the university.
He says one of the main goals of the department is to teach students that, regardless of their vocation or major at Lipscomb, whatever they do can become
their personal mission field.
“God is everywhere and is working throughout the entire world, and so we have the ability for missional living wherever we are,” he said.
He said one of his goals is to expose students to the opportunities available in Nashville and Tennessee.
Stevens said he anticipates growth this year in the amount of trips Lipscomb offers. He has helped coordinate new all-male and all-female trips, which allow for different types of ministry work that are difficult to accomplish with mixed-gender groups. He has also been working with several of the athletic teams to create outreach trips specific to their sports.
Stevens said he is excited for the upcoming opportunities for the program, which will open the door to more trips in the future for LU students and groups.