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New SDA Chaplain at Gallaudet University
Gallaudet University has a new chaplain who represents the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Adventist Deaf Ministries, giving counsel on spiritual and personal matters to Deaf students. Her name is Mrs. Francisca Trexler who began her work February, 2009.Since Francisca began her work at Gallaudet, her presence has had an impact on some students. Right now, six SDA young adults are meeting Friday nights to study Steps to Christ. Francisca is planning social events to draw non-Adventist students.
Francisca states, "My experience as a chaplain at Gallaudet University under the Office of Campus Ministries is challenging and exciting. One lady expressed to me that it would be wonderful to have a female chaplain because it would be comfortable to discuss personal matters among young women. A few ladies see me in the office for Bible study and spiritual counseling. I enjoy working for the Lord on campus. Pray for the young people to be drawn to Christ."
Francisca has a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and has counseled many people, even some hearing, all over the nation, through e-mail, online chat, video phone and in person. This experience allows Francisca to offer her counseling skills to Gallaudet students. Not only can Francisca offer counseling on personal relationships, but she also has many years of experience in giving Bible studies and spiritual counseling.
Her love for young people has been made evident through the years. She has been the director for the children and youth programs at camp meetings and also has been involved with pathfinders among other activities. She strongly desires that youth be prepared for the second coming of Jesus and take seriously the Great Commission and share the Good News with others.
Many years ago, Francisca was herself a student at Gallaudet. In fact, it was on this campus that Francisca learned Biblical truth and was led to teh Adventist church. Many years have passed and Francisca is back on campus working to bring the light of truth to Gallaudet.
140-year-old Gallaudet University has served as a "Mecca" for the Deaf community. There are 1,600 students enrolled; 7% of them are international students. What an opportunity to reach Deaf young adults!
This chaplain position was made possible by a grant given to ADM by the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist church. The grant is a one-time privilege to provide a temporary part-time Chaplain worker to help Deaf students at Gallaudet know Jesus Christ and prepare them for His second coming.
Francisca faces a great challenge as the students at Gallaudet are especially secular-minded. Please support Francisca through your prayers as she plans activities and studies with these precious souls.