Aspiring high school Christian leaders encouraged to apply to Open Call

(Hastings, Nebraska) – Hastings College is now accepting applications for Open Call, a residential experience for current high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors exploring a call to Christian ministry. The week-long program will be held from Saturday, May 31 to Saturday, June 7, 2025, and is free of charge for the first 25 students who apply before May 15.

Interested students can find the application and additional details at hastings.edu/opencall.

 "Open Call is an incredible opportunity for young people who are passionate about exploring their faith and its impact on the world," said Rev. Doodle Harris, Hastings College chaplain and director of ASPIRE (Academy of Student Preachers Inspiring Religious Engagement). "Throughout the week, students will connect with like-minded peers and learn innovative ways to engage through digital media, storytelling and relevant cultural insights. By the end of the program, they’ll have crafted their own sermons for our Digital Sermon Library, empowering them to share their unique voices in ministry." 

The program features:

Hands-on learning sessions with instructors in Christian ministry, communications and digital media
Focus on connecting Biblical text with current culture
Training in using digital media for multi-sensory presentations
Guidance on sharing faith messages that resonate with youth and young adults
Supervised stay in Hastings College residence halls
Group activities, recreational events and field trips to foster friendships
Open Call is part of ASPIRE, an intergenerational program aimed at cultivating preaching for diverse audiences, particularly young adults, by communicating Biblical teachings in timely, relevant ways that incorporate contemporary culture and digital platforms.