Pastor Andy discussed with the class what his role as Morningside’s campus chaplain entails and how it has impacted his life.

Pastor Andy started by defining his position as campus chaplain. His priority is students but he also is available for faculty. His main goal is to “connect you with something bigger than you”. Andy mentions the first amendement specifically how it allows us to have “freedom of speech and freedom of religion”Regardless of what beliefs a student has, Andy is there to listen and direct students to resources if needed.

Andy does a couple of other things other than talking to Morningside students. He gives speeches to prospective students going on tours, is a part of bible study, advises student groups, and has his open-door policy.

Students are able to stop by his office or make an appointment via email with Pastor Andy. He is a confidential resource, so students can trust that their information will not be shared.

Pastor Andy’s journey to becoming Morningside’s chaplain began at a young age attending church. He was involved in his hometown church and had been told that it is something he should consider. Once Andy got to college he decided that he wanted to be a pastor but in his junior year he didn’t think it was an option.

After his junior year, Andy decided that he wanted to be a campus chaplain due to all his experiences in Luther College in Decorah, Minnesota. He originally planned to take a gap year to find new experiences between college and seminary. A new experience “to disengage from student life”, but he ultimately went straight to seminary. That is something he would go back and change if he could.

Pastor Andy enjoys working as a campus chaplain because “as a chaplain, you are able to ask questions and not just go with what you’re told”. He is open to conversations about other people’s faith and assisting them to enhance that connection.

Sometimes Andy feels that the “good and influence you provide is nebulant”. His engagement with students doesn’t always show results right away or at all. It is hard for him to feel like he is making an impact when he can’t visibly see it.

Although Pastor Andy struggles with seeing his impact the little difference he is able to see is what keeps him going. He explained that it takes time to see results but once in awhile he’ll notice that he has made an impact in someone’s life.

Faith is the most important thing in Pastor Andy’s life. His job involves his faith but it goes deeper than just his practices. Faith has shaped how Andy views life and death and that influences how he lives his life. This has influenced his understanding of who he is and how the relationships around him flow.