Kentucky Campus

WELCOME TO THE ASBURY EXPERIENCE

We are working to shape a TRANSFORMATION LEARNING COMMUNITY where

sound learning and vital piety are conjoined in holy union,
the pursuit of knowledge and the practice of spiritual formation live in thoughtful integration, Christian disciples participate in intentional community, a sharing a lifestyle of worship and prayer and a shaping life patterns of health and wholeness . . . in preparation to the end of being sent forth as a well-trained, sanctified, spirit-filled, evangelistic ministry to spread Scriptural holiness throughout the World.

Since its inception in 1923, Asbury has exhibited a distinctive identity and unique spirit. Our rich Wesleyan heritage, evangelical commitments and strong academic pursuit all make for a solid seminary foundation. There is a powerful intangible dynamic at work here as well. It has come to be known as the Asbury Experience. And what is the Asbury Experience? We are glad you asked. In short, it is a way of learning, worshipping, praying and sharing life together in community.

Community is a word you'll hear often at Asbury. We believe that a group of people living together, sharing, and holding each other accountable is the best place for growth to occur. This place is the seedbed for the growth that will nurture you throughout a ministry career, and life with other believers fertilizes and nurtures that growth.

The Office of Community Life works to catalyze and steward the learning experience of students-in short, we exist to help water our "seeds" and take good care of them while they grow. We encourage students and families, shaping the context for a transformational learning experience through providing connections, encouragement and resources.

A COMMUNITY OF WORSHIP, PRAYER AND SPIRITUAL FORMATION

What life have you if you have not life together? There is no life that is not in community, and no community not lived in praise of God. - T.S. Elliot
We believe that a worshipping community makes theological reflection and spiritual formation happen. Therefore, chapel is a hallmark of our life together at Asbury.

THE CHAPEL

Chapel meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 am in Estes Chapel. Preachers, teachers and church leaders from across the world add to the richness of these experiences. It is customary for the entire Seminary community to meet together at these times. In addition, midweek Eucharist meets each Wednesday from 11:30 am to Noon in The Fletcher Prayer Chapel.

GETTING INVOLVED

The most significant counsel we can offer as it relates to community life is also the most simple: participate in chapel. It is central to the covenant-making way for our life together before God. In order to recognize chapel's importance, the various public facilities such as Cafeteria, Office of Community Life, Business Office and Library are closed during chapel hours.

There are a variety of opportunities for students to be meaningfully engaged in the chapel worship at the seminary. Please fill out a response card from the Chapel Office indicating your interest in helping serve the worship of the community. Our seminary choir, "The Singing Seminarians," is another great opportunity to serve. Also, a team of students serves each year as Spiritual Life Assistants the seminary community.

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY LIFE: STUDENT SERVICES

New Student Orientation

New students are assimilated into the Seminary experience through a comprehensive orientation before each semester. Students are placed into Transition and Guidance (TAG) groups where new relationships can begin to form and information is disseminated in a variety of ways. Spouses are strongly encouraged to attend.

Publications

The Office of Community Life regularly publishes a Campus Calendar (This Week @ Asbury).

Counseling, Support & Care Resources

Counseling is available. Students meet with the Student and Family Chaplain, the Vice President of Community Life, or the VP's assistant to discuss referral options and financial arrangements. Referrals include Asbury Seminary Counseling faculty and local professional counselors.
Renewal Groups are small group opportunities designed to assist students in their recovery from life-destructive patterns. To protect the integrity of the group process, confidentiality and anonymity are a requirement of participation. Groups are formed on an on-going basis as needs arise.
Stephen Ministry is also available for prayer and to provide a listening ear while maintaining strict confidentiality. Stephen Ministers are compassionate members of the Asbury Seminary community who are trained to provide one-on-one care for individuals experiencing life's stresses and difficulties.

See the Student and Family Chaplain for information concerning referral and support options.

Philippian Fund

Students who experience unusual or unexpected financial hardship may request assistance from the Office of Community Life. Information concerning needs should be expressed by personal interview with the Student and Family Chaplain

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY LIFE: INTERNATIONAL

The Office of International Ministry was established in 1997 to address the needs of international students. The office, now called Office of Community Life-International is located in the Sherman Thomas Student Center and exists to provide hospitality, care and support for the specialized needs of international students and to foster the growth of intercultural community on campus.

The office has four major ministry programs established to meet this mission:

The International Hospitality Ministry, along with a team of volunteers, sets up international homes with furniture, appliances, dishes, and linens. Most international students arrive in the United States with very few personal belongings and items needed to set up their homes. When an international family arrives they walk into a furnished home that has already-made beds, a kitchen supplied with items needed to cook a meal, and a dining table at which to sit.
International Community Care gives care to international students during times of special need and/or crisis.
The Intercultural Ministries strives to encourage ALL students and their families to foster relationships with someone from another culture. This is done in three ways: Priscilla Aquila program, Small World events and international fellowships.
The Koinonia House, located on the intersection of N. Maple and Spring Street, is a home of hospitality and welcome to hundreds of students, their friends, and guests. The house serves Asbury Seminary's community as a center for prayer, Bible study, meals, fellowship, spiritual development activities, vision casting, planning, and as guest quarters for international visitors and arriving international students and families.

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY LIFE: SPOUSE AND FAMILY MINISTRIES

Spouse and Family Ministries serves seminary spouses and families. Our priority is the total integration of spouses into the Asbury community, and the provision of formational learning and healing opportunities.

Monday night is "Spouse Night" at Asbury. On three Mondays a month we offer classes and small group opportunities. Child care is offered for all spouse events as well as Tuesday and Thursday chapel services. We hope parents will take advantage of this service and engage in formational experiences.

Besides classes, this ministry also offers retreats, celebrations, and family events. All spouses are encouraged to participate as they are able. For more information contact the Spouse and Family office at 859.858.2315 or 859.858.2033.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM-Kentucky Campus

The Asbury Theological Seminary Student Leadership Team (SLT) exists to serve the student body in Kentucky and on the Virtual Campus. Our mission is: to serve as representatives of the student body through being advocates: providing social, service and recreational opportunities; and fostering spiritual growth in order to make a lasting impact on the ATS community and the world.

All students and families are encouraged to participate in SLT events, programs, and ministries. The funding of these projects and programs are provided through student activity fees. The SLT also represents the interest and concerns of students by participating on various committees of the Administration, the Office of Community Life, the Faculty and the Board of Trustees.

For more information on Community Life visit the ATS website and view the Student Guidebook.

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