A Core Memory
When Jules joined Jacksonville Campus Ministry in their second semester of freshman year, they didn't anticipate the profound impact it would have on their college experience and personal growth. Especially since Jules is Jewish.
“I didn't really know anybody before I joined the Interfaith Center for some events,” Jules recalls. “Pastor Sarah came to a conversation on anti-semitism, and then I came to Food For Thought. I remember other people telling me about it, but I think my main draw to actually go and be involved in that work was how inclusive she was and how attentive she was to attending events that weren’t about her own religion.”
Growing up, Jules faced significant challenges that shaped their spiritual identity. “My mom converted to Christianity when she married my dad, who is Jewish. They tried to raise me with both religions. I went to Jewish preschool and church.” Middle school was especially tough for Jules. “After coming out, I faced cyberbullying at youth group. The guys called me disgusting and the church itself didn’t feel affirming. I felt like I was faking it, singing songs I didn't believe in. Christianity didn’t resonate with me, and the type of Christianity presented to me wasn’t right.”
These negative experiences left Jules wary of Christianity. “Going into college, I didn't want to hear about Christianity. I was scared to be friends with people who were actively Christian. But meeting Pastor Sarah broke down those walls. Being exposed to good Christians who believe in welcoming everyone no matter who you are was life-changing.”
Through the inclusive and supportive environment of Jacksonville Campus Ministry, Jules began to find their footing. As a social work student, Jules found a significant crossover between their classes and the discussions within campus ministry. “I had classes on diversity, where I felt like I had more of a foundation for talking about those issues. We were already discussing pluralism and community in campus ministry and the Interfaith Center.”
It wasn’t until the spring break trip to Germany that Jules felt fully integrated into the community, though. “The Germany trip made my college experience. It is a core memory I will keep for the rest of my life. It was the first time I traveled outside of the country. We were learning about history more organically than taking a class– by going to museums and sites. I got to meet really cool people on that trip. Both of my roommates were people I didn’t know well before.”
More than anything else, Jules believes that the campus ministry allowed them to understand themself better. “I know how to find community now. I know the types of people I want to surround myself with. I feel confident in making friends. Before college, I was bullied in elementary and middle school. I always sat alone at lunch. My mom always told me that I would find my true friends in college, but I never believed her. I had spent so long alone that it was hard to imagine it would be different. But it was. I was so shocked, in the best way, finding people who wanted to get to know me.”
Now, Jules finds a balance in their spirituality. “Christianity isn’t for me, but being around Christianity is. My spirituality is Jewish, but part of it is being in a community with people of all differences, including Christianity.”
Jules’ story is a testament to the power of inclusive communities and the profound impact of interfaith dialogue and support. Through Jacksonville Campus Ministry, Jules found not just a community, but a place to grow, advocate, and form lasting connections. Thank you for your generous support of our community and students like Jules.