Prayer & Spiritual Formation

Young people in the 21st Century are growing up in a world full of distractions. The onslaught of a constantly developing technological age means that students have access to entertainment, communications and information 24/7. Our culture is one of severe defecit of community, intimacy and security.

In this age, many family units are crumbling. In that context, youth often are left to seek out their needs through virtual means – sadly online intimacy is an industry of rapid growth as psychological, sexual, relational and spiritual fulfillment is a click away.

In the real world, global news reports heighten our insecurity. Available to all is the exhaustive coverage of terrorist acts, effects of global warming, immorality of leaders and heroes, financial distress, natural disaster, distant wars and local disturbances. Advocating for death over life and hurt over healing is the savvy marketer’s recipe for ratings increase.

The cultural staples of music, art and tattoos speak of cynicism and hopelessness. School violence, addictions and growing suicide rates are the anthem of a generation. Despite great material wealth, deep emptiness thrives within – masked by an abundance of resource. A culture built to strip away confidence, self-assurance and real community is the scourge facing the youth of the day.

Into this culture of affluence and despair, God lives! He is ready and longing to offer life, love and purpose through his person and an invitation to partner with Him.

Inter-Varsity staff are deeply motivated to walk with young people at Inter-Varsity Pioneer Camps and through Campus Ministries for undergraduates, graduates and international students. They face the same distractions and temptations of our culture.

The role of Inter-Varsity’s Prayer & Spiritual Formation ministry is to resource staff to help build their own spiritual health as well as that of those they minister to. Through silent retreats, resources and an active network of prayer, staff and students are able to be refreshed in the presence of God, and challenged by His word.