The work honeymoon is over for most of my friends. Four years out of university, nine-to-five is more monotony than novelty, the pay cheque is never quite enough, and 'travelling' is limited to two-week vacations. Reality has hit. And they live for the weekend.
So last month I was surprised to find myself surrounded by a large group of bright, (mostly) young things, all of whom seemed passionate about their work. I heard the phrases, 'I love my job' and 'this is the best job in the world' uttered on more than a few occasions. I knew the prospect of fast-track career progression or large bonuses was not their motivation (their employer provides neither), but rather a burden to see students become disciples of Jesus Christ. I was at the UCCF staff conference.
Regional teams
This academic year, UCCF has 61 staff working with Christian Unions in England, Scotland and Wales. All are graduates who are giving at least three years of their life to be missionaries in this country, serving the CUs and are delighted to do so. Esther Jervis, CU staff worker with Art students, reflected: 'It feels less like a job that I have to do, with tasks and aims, and more like a desire in me to see the students grow as Christians, because I know that's the best thing for them.'
