Reach Out on Campus at OU: September Update

Let me begin this update with an expression of gratefulness for the many churches and individuals who supported ROC’s cookie outreach. Because of your generosity we were able to give out more than 1,400 bags of cookies during OU’s move-in weekend. That is incredible! It’s also the most cookies we’ve given away since I’ve been with ROC. This gave us the opportunity to have some great conversations, to make meaningful connections with new students, and to glorify Jesus by sharing a simple expression of love.

I’ve shared before that I’m always amazed at how many of our students’ ROC stories begin with “I first heard of ROC when someone handed me a bag of cookies.” It’s such a simple, yet powerful, way to let people know that they are loved; and it’s one that I hope we continue for many years to come. In this month’s Student Update you will get to hear from Blayne. Blayne’s ROC story begins with a bag of cookies as well. I hope that you are encouraged in hearing how God is blessing this outreach!

As excited as I am about how well the cookie outreach went, I am even more excited to be a part of a community where outreach isn’t just something we do, but a part of who we are. It’s amazing to me to see students reaching out to other students and inviting them into community and encouraging them to grow in their walk with Christ.

Speaking of outreach, one of the reasons I truly love fall semester is because of the many opportunities we have to invite our supporters to help us reach out to the community of Ohio University. Baking cookies is just the beginning! This year we have scheduled our second annual Halloween Block Party Outreach. Last year, because of your faithfulness and prayers, we were able to give away over 1,000 hotdogs during this event. We were blessed by so many who gave financially as well as numerous others who joined us that evening to serve on the front lines.

With this in mind, we want to ask you for a couple things as we prepare for this year’s outreach. First, please join us in praying that God would bless this event. We know that a huge reason for the success of the cookie outreach centered on the many people, including supporters like you, who prayed over this outreach. Second, please consider joining us either in person to serve or sending a monetary gift to purchase hotdogs and supplies. In October we will be providing more details for those interested in joining us that evening. In the meantime should you have any questions about this outreach, please do not hesitate to contact us at (740) 592-1086 or reachohio@gmail.com.

One final thing we would love for you to join us in praying over and possibly helping us promote is ROC’s Student Ministry Day on campus. Last year we invited youth groups from our supporting churches and surrounding areas to join us for an afternoon of worship, teaching, small groups, and fun. This year the event is scheduled for Saturday December 2^nd. We will be releasing more details about this event as the time draws closer. Encourage your church’s youth to join us!

Thank you for the integral role you play in the ministry of ROC. Our community is both blessed and strengthened by the support that you continue to show us.