Christian Outreach M.A. Program Puts Student on Path to Success

Campus ministry associate Andrew Jones is running down the road of success. Jones (’06) has his undergraduate degree in Theology, works as Concordia’s campus ministry associate and is studying in the Master of Arts in Christian Outreach (MACO) program offered through Concordia by the Oswald Hoffmann School of Christian Outreach (OHSCO).

The MACO program launched in 2002 and equips church leaders with a deepened understanding of the theology of God’s mission. It also provides practical tools to engage in church outreach ministries. Upon accepting the position as the campus ministry associate, Jones enrolled in the MACO program. He says there is a lot of flexibility with career paths postgraduation. Jones plans to use the MACO program as a stepping stone for his Ph.D. and becoming a professor and missionary.

His career path suits his personality well. “Americans are time-centered,” Jones said. “The American concept of time is not one that I adhere to well. The mission field is one that makes the most sense for someone who is person-centered.”

Rev. Dr. James Gimbel, assistant professor of Organizational Management, is filling a pastoral vacancy at Concordia Lutheran Church in South St. Paul where Jones has been assisting with teaching confirmation, prayers, singing, and other duties. Jones gives credit to Gimbel for being a helpful mentor. “He’s really encouraged me to use my gifts—aside from my frustrations,” said Jones. “He’s encouraged me to keep sharpening my tools.”

Jones is grateful for his experiences at Concordia Lutheran Church and at Concordia University, knowing they provide helpful insights and experience in themission field. “It gives me the opportunity to share my story of faith with those who need to be comforted,” Jones said. Getting to know students comes naturally for him. “I like doing that—it’s second nature.”

Jones enjoys the dynamic he has with students and says his age is an automatic advantage. “It helps me bring creativity to them, showing them you can connect everyday life to a spiritual life,” he said.

Jones’ creativity was particularly apparent when he acted out a scene from “The Glasses” episode of the hit TV sit-com “Seinfeld” in a chapel service. Jones figured there was no better way to communicate the scripture’s message than to put it into a format students would enjoy. “Seinfeld” character George had lost his glasses and was sometimes able to see and sometimes not. Jones said that Christ’s vision is always clear. “God is constant,” he said. “We are fickle.”

Jones knows that wherever God calls him, his MACO degree will be put to good use. “The great thing about MACO is that even if you don’t follow all of your life’s ambitions, the program offers knowledge you can use in everyday life,” he said.

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