We’ve been asked by staff and students here, staff on other campuses, supporters, pastors—and honestly, sometimes even by ourselves—about our new role at Sam Houston State. I had a lot of conversations with Kathy and with trusted friends, asking, “What does it really mean to provide pastoral care and staff development?”
As I prayed over those conversations, the Lord reminded me that my calling here really comes down to a few simple things. These five things pretty well capture our role as part of Chi Alpha at Sam Houston State:
Prayer
Prayer is where it all begins for us. It’s not just part of our role—it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. When we pray, we’re reminded that God is the One who moves hearts and changes lives, not us. Our role is to stand in the gap, to lift up staff and students, situations, and needs before Him, and to believe He is at work even when we can’t see it.
Listening
We’ve come to realize that one of the greatest gifts we can give is our attention. When we slow down to really listen—to someone’s story, their struggles, their questions—we make space for God’s Spirit to move. Often people don’t need an answer as much as they need to know they’ve been heard and loved.
Guiding
We don’t see ourselves as the ones with all the answers, but as people who get to point others back to Jesus. It’s not about fixing problems; it’s about reminding everyone where true life and holiness are found—in Him. Our prayer is always that our words and actions gently guide people closer to the heart of God.
Caring for Souls
So much of ministry happens in the unseen, and we’ve learned to embrace that. The hidden prayers, the quiet conversations, the unnoticed acts of love—all of it matters. This “soul work” may not draw attention, but it creates an environment where people can encounter God’s love and discover His purpose for their lives.
Teaching and Preaching
Finally, we count it a privilege to open God’s Word with both staff and students. Whether in a large group setting (often me, though Kathy is an excellent teacher), over coffee or hot chocolate, or in a small Bible study, we love those moments when Scripture comes alive and someone sees God more clearly. Teaching and preaching aren’t just responsibilities—they’re opportunities to watch the Holy Spirit open eyes and hearts.
At the end of the day, our role here is simple: to be faithful in prayer, to be present, and to point people to Jesus. In doing that, we live out both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Everything else flows from there.
