Grace Bedenbaugh says her calling to student ministry began as a high school junior during her first year at Summit, SCBaptist’s leadership experience for students.

“Since then, I’ve continually wrestled with the weight of that calling, realizing it’s something greater than myself and often out of my comfort zone.”

A native of Gilbert, SC, Bedenbaugh served as an intern in the student ministry at Lake Murray Baptist Church. For her, middle and high school were very formative years because of the church. “I was discipled and mentored in a way that forever changed the trajectory of my life,” she said. “Now I feel called to pour that same Christ-centered love and guidance into the lives of other students.”

Her church internship at Lake Murray has provided hands-on experience in leadership and discipleship. “I’ve been stretched and continually reminded that ministry cannot be done in my own strength, but only through dependence on the Lord,” she said. “I believe that serving the local church is essential to growing as a follower of Christ.”

Ministry in Practice

Now entering her sophomore year at Anderson University, Bedenbaugh’s involvement in Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) has helped confirm her calling further. “Through my involvement in BCM, one of my leaders invited me to serve at a DNOW weekend at her home church,” Grace shared. “That experience was a powerful reminder and confirmation from the Lord that student ministry is where my heart truly belongs.”

She emphasized that SCBaptist has played a large role in shaping her faith. “Through experiences like Summit, CONVERGE, and SummerSalt, I’ve been challenged to live on mission and encouraged to pursue a life fully surrendered to the Lord.”

For Bedenbaugh, the heart of ministry is found in the people. “There’s something so special about doing life and ministry alongside others who are passionate about the Gospel,” she said. “The friendships, mentorships, and shared experiences have reminded me that ministry is deeply relational.”