---
title: Episode 018 - Navigating College Ministry w/ Cooper Ray
description: Navigating college ministry with Cooper Ray. Discuss the challenges of faith in college, parental support, and building resilient campus communities.
---

[The Church Podcast ](https://blog.marathonyouthministry.com/churchpodcast)

# [Episode 018 - Navigating College Ministry w/ Cooper Ray](https://blog.marathonyouthministry.com/churchpodcast/episode-017-relational-ministry-with-the-next-generation-w/-deacon-bob-rice-0)

 Written by [Christopher Wesley](https://blog.marathonyouthministry.com/churchpodcast/author/christopher-wesley) | Mar 25, 2025 12:20:06 PM

In this episode, Christopher Wesley speaks with Cooper Ray, the director of strategic partnerships for Newman Ministry. They discuss the challenges young adults face when transitioning from high school to college, the importance of parental support in maintaining faith, and the mission of Newman Ministry to connect students with Catholic campus communities. Cooper shares insights on best practices for campus ministers, advice for new ministry leaders, and his hopes for the future of the church, emphasizing resilience and the need for a strong faith foundation.

**Takeaways**

- Young adults struggle with faith ownership in college.
- Parental involvement is crucial for maintaining faith.
- Newman Ministry connects students to Catholic campus communities.
- Campus ministers should create welcoming environments.
- Building community is essential for young adult ministry.
- Ministry leaders should give their roles three years.
- Faith should be a family culture from an early age.
- Resilience is key for the church's future.
- Leaders should not feel pressured to have all the answers.
- Personal invitations can significantly impact faith journeys.

**SOUND BITES** - "Resilience is key for the church."

**CONNECT WITH COOPER**

**Main Website - **[https://deaconbobrice.com/](https://deaconbobrice.com/)

**Newman Ministry - [https://www.cooperray.com/](https://www.cooperray.com/)**

**Cooper Recommends - **[Show Us the Father: 7 Secrets to Be a Father on Earth Like the Father in Heaven](https://amzn.to/4iybCGL) by Devin Schadt

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