This week, chapel was a little different than normal. Instead of having a speaker, Rev. Dr. Royce Evans had a Service Fair for students to get involved with area ministries.

As a tangible expression of this semester’s theme of “An Appropriate Presence,” Dr. Evans invited six different organizations to set up displays and connect with our students about ways they are being present in our world. They provided opportunities for students to serve in their ministries even while enrolled at GRTS.

Here are the ministries that attended the Service Fair. We are excited about various ways these organizations are being the hands and feet of Jesus:

ALPHA WOMEN’S CENTER

“To share the hope of Christ to women facing unplanned pregnancies by affirming and promoting the sanctity of human life and strengthening the family through Biblical principles.”

“THE GATHERING” AT BEREAN BAPTIST CHURCH

Berean Baptist Church is committed to developing meaningful relationships with people in their immediate community. “The Gathering” is a ministry that seeks to bring children and teens together to celebrate each other and develop these relationships. Children as young as 3 years old play games, hear Bible stories, eat snacks and participate in praise and worship. These relationships between children in the community and children from the church are strengthened within small groups. For teens through High School, “The Well” is a place to come and just be. It’s a time to rest, do homework, get a 25 cent cappuccino, eat nachos with old friends and develop new friendships. Leaders and fellow students are available to encourage and walk through life together.

BRIDGE STREET HOUSE OF PRAYER

“Building a bridge between the streets and the church.”

FIRST LOVE INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES

“First Love is an interdenominational mission agency founded for the purpose of bringing the life-giving message of salvation through Jesus Christ to un-reached people residing in impoverished regions of the world.”

GRAND RAPIDS HOME FOR VETERANS

“Grand Rapids Home for Veterans provides long-term care and domiciliary living for qualified Veterans. Our mission is to maintain, restore and enhance their quality of life, dignity and health. The home provides outstanding care to veterans who need assistance with daily living activities as well as therapeutic services.”

MEL TROTTER

“Mel Trotter Ministries exists to demonstrate the compassion of Jesus Christ toward the hungry, homeless and hurting of the greater Grand Rapids area.”