Big discipleship opportunities opening on our little campus
Andrew Davidson, Staff Writer
For the past few years, female upperclassmen at North Greenville University have had an opportunity to disciple underclassmen through a program called Big and Little. Starting this year, men will have the same opportunity with the start of men’s Big and Little.
Big and Little is a way of connecting upperclassmen with underclassmen to build community and strengthen students’ faith in the Lord.
There is no reason why a men’s program was not created with the women’s program. Nonetheless, there are many students on campus excited for this new opportunity.
Andrew Layne, a junior interdisciplinary major at NGU, is leading the program and is excited for what it will do for the men on campus.
“We currently have over 20 applicants and we are overjoyed. I would love to see every guy at NGU join simply because of how big an impact discipleship and having a mentor has had on my life. Yet, even if only one pair was created, it would be totally worth it,” Layne said.
Men’s Big and Little will function the same as the women’s program. Upperclassmen and underclassmen are paired up based off their applications–generally those who have similar interests and goals.
There are no scheduling restraints for students with busy schedules, as they get to pick their own times with their partner for where and when to meet.
“We will do a reveal where littles will meet their bigs. After that, it is up to the pair as to when they meet. However, we suggest that it be weekly,” said Layne.
All students are encouraged to join regardless of class status, major, or schedules as it is beneficial for every man on campus.
“To upperclassmen guys, if Christ has saved you, you have something to share. Do not let fear be the reason you choose not to serve a younger brother in the faith. To underclassmen guys, what have you got to lose? Being poured into by an older brother in Christ will challenge you, but also call you into greater holiness. Despite the uncertainty, it is so worth it,” Layne said.
For NGU men who are interested in this discipleship opportunity, applications can be found on the screens during chapel announcements and in the bio of the NGU campus life Instagram page. The deadline to apply is Dec. 1, 2023.
Graphic by Cecelia Sundell.
