Embracing a Polyhedral Vision: Insights for Campus Ministers Through the Lens of Mark 5:41

By Rosie Chinea Shawver

Executive Director of the Catholic Campus Ministry Association

In November 2023, I had the privilege of attending a gathering in the Vatican where Pope Francis addressed university chaplains and pastoral workers. His call to embrace a “polyhedral vision” in our ministry is profoundly intertwined with the scriptural passage Mark 5:41: "Talitha, koum"—"Little girl, I say to you, get up!" Here are my reflections:

A Polyhedral Vision: Appreciating Differences

The polyhedron, with its many facets and angles, serves as a powerful metaphor for the diversity and complexity of the human experience. Unlike the smooth and uniform sphere, the polyhedron’s edges and varying surfaces reflect light in a multitude of ways, creating a multifaceted and dynamic whole. This vision encourages us to appreciate and celebrate the rich variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and challenges presented by our students and colleagues.

Mark 5:41 illuminates this idea of potential and transformation. In this passage, Jesus’ command to the young girl to rise is not merely a physical act but a profound call to awaken to new life. This reflects our understanding of grace - a divine gift that calls forth and actualizes the inherent potential within each person. Just as the polyhedron’s facets come together to form a complete structure, each individual's unique experiences and qualities contribute to their growth and fulfillment in Christ.

Our role in ministry is to recognize and nurture these differences, helping each person to realize their God-given potential. By appreciating the multifaceted nature of our community, we mirror the Divine Artist’s work in creating humanity with all its diversity and beauty.

Accompanying with Care: The Gentle Call to Rise

The story of the young girl in Mark 5:41 also highlights the importance of compassionate accompaniment. Jesus’ gentle command to "get up" is an act of divine love that extends beyond physical healing to a call for spiritual and personal renewal. This echoes our belief in the transformative power of Christ’s love, which invites us to see and nurture the potential in every person.

Accompanying with care means engaging with each individual's journey in a deeply empathetic and respectful manner. It involves being present through their struggles and triumphs, mirroring the pastoral care that Jesus exemplified. Just as Jesus reached out to the girl with tender encouragement, we are called to support our students with a love that is both nurturing and empowering. This is akin to the Church’s mission to provide pastoral care - offering guidance, support, and a loving presence that facilitates spiritual and personal growth.

Acting Courageously: The Boldness to Inspire Transformation

Courage is a central theme in both the Pope's address and the scripture. In Mark 5:41, Jesus demonstrates courage by directly addressing the girl’s condition, defying societal norms and expectations. This boldness is essential in our ministry as well. Courage enables us to challenge the status quo, take innovative risks, and support our students in ways that push boundaries and inspire change.

Courage is one of the cardinal virtues, crucial for living a life of faith and integrity. It empowers us to act decisively and with conviction, even in the face of adversity. Our ministry requires a similar courage - to embrace new ideas, advocate for necessary changes, and help students dream and aspire beyond their current circumstances. Like Jesus’ call to the young girl, our courageous actions can catalyze profound transformations, fostering an environment where students can overcome obstacles and realize their full potential in Christ.

Integrating Insights into Our Ministry

Incorporating these theological and scriptural insights into our ministry, we embrace a polyhedral vision that celebrates diversity, offers compassionate accompaniment, and acts with courage. By doing so, we reflect the richness of God’s creation and the transformative power of His love.

As we continue our vital work, let us be inspired by the example of Christ and the teachings of the Church. May we foster vibrant and supportive campus communities that empower students to rise to their fullest potential, just as Jesus empowered the young girl to rise from her affliction.

Thank you for your dedication and the profound impact you make in the lives of your students.  May we remain guided by these principles, embracing the call to be agents of transformation and grace.