Why Not Go? Embracing Global Missions and Campus Ministry (w/ Eric Asp)
Eric Asp’s journey into campus ministry spans nearly 30 years, marked by a willingness to follow God’s call wherever it led—from the classrooms of Bowling Green State University to the vibrant streets of Amsterdam. Along the way, he’s learned the value of humility, cross-cultural adaptation, and the profound impact of living as a servant leader. His story is one of resilience, curiosity, and an unshakable commitment to seeing God’s kingdom flourish on college campuses and beyond.
In this episode of the Collegiate Church Network Podcast, host Jay Bennet sits down with Eric to reflect on his journey, from planting churches internationally to pastoring college students at Kent State University. Together, they explore the challenges and rewards of ministry, offering wisdom and encouragement for anyone looking to faithfully serve where God has placed them.
A Journey of Obedience
Eric’s story begins in the mid-90s at Bowling Green State University, where his faith came alive through a vibrant campus church. “I didn’t fully realize how big God’s kingdom was until I started working with our sending agency,” Eric recalls. Traveling to places like Italy, Ukraine, and Honduras for video production work opened his eyes to the global church and planted seeds for future mission work.
Eventually, those seeds led Eric to Amsterdam, where he and his wife moved with their young son as part of a 40-person church planting team. The vision? To establish a young, vibrant, and culturally relevant church in a city known for its diversity and spiritual need.
The Reality of Church Planting
Despite the team’s high hopes and careful planning, their efforts to create a large, production-oriented church faced significant challenges. “We went in with great potential but also a lot of pride,” Eric admits. Within six months, the lead pastor who had cast the vision for the church stepped down due to personal struggles.
What followed was a humbling yet transformative process. “We had to go back to the drawing board, listen to the culture, and lean into what God was already doing in Amsterdam,” Eric shares. Small groups became the heartbeat of the ministry, and the team shifted its focus from large-scale events to relational discipleship.
“It was messy, but God used it to teach us the importance of being learners, not saviors,” Eric says. “We had to embrace our role as cultural toddlers and let the church grow organically.”
The Long Game of Cross-Cultural Ministry
Eric stayed in Amsterdam for several years, slowly building relationships and learning to navigate the cultural complexities of ministry in a post-Christian context. Over time, he and his wife felt a growing call to return to the U.S.
“We loved our time in Amsterdam, but we realized it was meant to be catalytic, not permanent,” Eric explains. After handing off leadership to local Dutch leaders, the family moved to Kent, Ohio, to join the team at H2O Church at Kent State University.
Lessons from Global Missions
Eric’s experiences in Amsterdam shaped his understanding of both global and local ministry. For those considering missions, Eric emphasizes the importance of curiosity, humility, and a willingness to ask, “Why not go?”
“You don’t need a supernatural sign to step into missions,” Eric says. “If there’s a need and you’re available, that’s reason enough to go. But don’t go in thinking you have all the answers—go in ready to listen and learn.”
Eric also highlights the unique opportunity that short-term missions provide for both personal growth and ministry impact. Programs like EuroLink, which connects students to sister churches in Europe for six weeks, are an excellent way to explore international ministry.
Faithfulness in the Everyday
Back in the U.S., Eric has embraced a long-term view of ministry. “There’s something powerful about being a faithful presence in one place for years or even decades,” he says. This mindset has helped him navigate the challenges of growing older in campus ministry while remaining deeply connected to students.
Eric also points to the importance of creating space for rest and reflection. A recent two-night personal retreat allowed him to process grief, reconnect with God, and recalibrate for the season ahead. “It was exactly what my soul needed,” he shares.
What’s Anchoring Eric Right Now
Eric continues to find strength and inspiration through:
Personal Retreats: Intentional time away has become a key practice for staying grounded in ministry.
Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot: This classic book about missionaries in Ecuador is one of Eric’s top recommendations.
Joshua 1: The reminder to “be strong and courageous” has been a consistent source of encouragement throughout Eric’s life.
Wisdom for Ministry and Life
For those just starting in campus ministry, Eric offers this advice:
Evangelism and Discipleship are Core: “These are the most essential parts of what we do. Everything else is secondary.”
Embrace the Learning Process: “You don’t need to know everything. In fact, it’s better if you don’t. Stay curious and humble.”
Trust God: “He’s faithful, even when you feel insecure or unsure. Lean into His presence and guidance.”
A Final Word
“Cheer up,” Eric says with a smile. “You’re actually way worse than you think—but God’s grace is far greater than you could ever imagine.”
Eric’s story is a beautiful testament to the power of humility, perseverance, and God’s ability to work through our weaknesses. Whether you’re considering missions, navigating leadership challenges, or simply trying to be faithful where you are, his journey reminds us that God’s goodness is always bigger than our doubts.
