Students
Students sometimes find it hard to sort out what’s what with the Christian groups on campus. This FAQ list is our attempt to help you understand the greater community and how we fit in:
What is SOul ZOne Ministries?
SOul ZOne is an independent, interdenominational campus ministry established in 2001 at Carleton College. It is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, supported by churches and individuals. It is not supported by the college in any way. Team members include Pastor Gary and Deb Hvass (full-time ministers) and Will and Cully Craig (lay ministers).
What is SZ’s role on campus?
SOul ZOne exists to advise and encourage the Christian community on campus. Team members advise and co-lead Bible studies and prayer groups, meet with students to foster spiritual growth, and host events for students.
What is SZ’s philosophy of ministry?
Briefly, we come alongside student leaders and help them lead rather than trying to build groups under the name of SOul ZOne.
What is FC?
Fellowship in Christ (FC) is a consortium of Christians and Christian groups who serve Jesus together on campus. Leaders in this spiritual association meet a few times each term for fellowship, communication and prayer. The Panel, which informally oversees the FC, is a group of three students whose purpose is to pray for, help coordinate and advise the community. The Panel was established to coordinate the activities of proliferating groups, and to bring together their leaders to share schedules and prayer needs.
What is the FC community like?
There is no one way to explain what the community is like. We have a photo gallery which caputres events, groups and candid moments. We welcome you to read Keeping the Faith at Carleton, a 'zine of stories told by alums about Christian community on campus. Groups and events are always happening on campus, so we welcome you to check them out.
We encouarge prospective students to connect with the community on their campus visit - whether it's a conversation over lunch or attending a group. Contact us and we'll help you set something up.
How does SOul ZOne fit into the FC network?
Most of what SZ does is with Carleton students and groups who are a part of the FC. SOul Zone’s leaders attend most of the FC leadership meetings and act as advisers to the Panel.
How does SZ interface with the chaplain and dean of students?
While SOul ZOne is separate from the college, we seek to maintain good relations with the administration on campus. Pastor Gary meets with the chaplain to discuss campus ministry and keep her informed of what we are doing. Gary and Deb meet with the Dean of Students for the same reason. We desire to work harmoniously with them to promote the spiritual health of the students with whom we minister.