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Posted by tom | May 14, 2009If you've followed this blog for any amount of time, you'll know that God the Father has gifted me with a passion which closely aligns to the calling/mission of the Emerging Scholars Network, i.e., to identify, encourage, and equip the next generation of Christian scholars who seek to be a redeeming influence within higher education. I don't go to activities (book discussions, conferencing, films, large groups, outreaches, small groups) for the sake of activities to entertain myself, feel like I'm accomplishing something, fill up time, mix with people, or to gather material to post on a blog. BUT instead because God has blessed me with an unshakable yearning to know and love Him (1st), His creatures (including myself), and His creation. As one called by God to the campus mission, I would be about ESN, even if it didn't exist!
None-the-less, many of you are probably curious as to who listens when I scatter the seeds of thought which are stimulated when these activities and relationships interact with the Word, Spirit, and the Body of Christ. As I have conversation in aa number of places, this is tough to track. But here's some material contributed by Micheal Hickerson, ESN Associate Director:
* Blogging and writing: Over the past year, Tom has written 58 blog posts for ESN, many of which were among the most read and most commented posts on the blog. Tom has also be key in bringing new readers to the blog through his connections on Facebook and campuses in PA and MD. ... Most recently on the blog, Tom has been recruiting regular commenters to contribute to the conversation and build a stronger community on the blog. Due in strong part to Tom's efforts, readership of the blog has doubled, from 25 views per day in 2008 to 50 views per day in 2009 (and 58 per day in April). Blog subscribers, who receive the blog by RSS, have risen from 30 in October 2008 to 70 in May 2009. Total readership (web views plus subscribers) has risen from 55 per day in October 2008 to 120 per day in May 2009, an increase of 118%. [Note added by Tom, but data compiled by Micheal: 267 visits to Randy’s Last Lecture, 201 visits for Preparing for the Lenten Journey; 13 comments on Why Does the Resurrection Matter, 9 comments on Elevating Science, Elevating Democracy]
* Networking and influence: Tom has been very important in connecting campus ministries, both within and outside of InterVarsity, with ESN. Tom's relationships in Maryland and Pennsylvania have been key in raising awareness of ESN in those states. Tom has also been able to listen to local InterVarsity staff to learn their perspective on ESN. This feedback has been very important in my planning for future ESN projects.
* Campus projects: In April, Tom organized the launch of the Central Pennsylvania Christian Scholars Network, with over 70 faculty, students, and community members in attendance. I hope that this launch and new regional ministry will serve as a model for other ESN-related networks around the country.
In the coming year, I hope that Tom is able to continue his writing for the ESN blog. Additionally, I hope to be able to use the study guide on vocation that Tom developed in 2007-2008 this coming year on campuses in the Midwest and Southeast, which may require additional work from Tom in revising the guide. I would also like Tom to continue his pioneering work in central PA and key metro areas in PA and MD, as an example and possible model for other ESN projects at key campuses around the country. One of my goals for the coming year is to seen ESN pilot projects on campuses in the Midwest and Southeast, and I would like Tom to be available for conversations with IV staff on those campuses (either online or by phone).
Thank-you for your prayers and support of this strategic kingdom work!
