Passion. Excitement. Confusion.
That’s what Racers right off the field usually feel as they kiss American soil. Coming home from a trip of 11 countries in 11 months usually creates a passion to continue to shake the world that cannot be ignored. The excitement to take the next step is shaking in alumni Racers bones… But, the next step is often blurry and uncertain.
Through a new program called the Center for Global Action (CGA), passionate Racers transition from the field into an environment that dreams are encouraged, community is continued and passions are solidified.
Pat Stiller, one of our very own CGA students, has given us a firsthand testimony of the program.
Pat’s an alumnus from the January 2012 E Squad. Getting off the field, he knew that his journey wasn’t over yet and packed up the remainder of his belongings and moved to Gainesville to start the spring semester of CGA.
In CGA, Pat has lived in close community, attended relevant classes, and worked hard in the Adventures for Life department. Working hard to connect alumni Racers with their dreams, he too has developed his own dream. Pat has been given the opportunity to pursue his new found dream as he leaves this week to lead another group of world changers, X-Squad. Here is what he has to say…
- Why did you come to CGA?
I didn’t have deep community at home, and CGA offered that. I knew it was the next step in what the Lord had started in me on the Race.
- What is your calling/dream?
My calling is unity in the church and in the body of Christ by encouraging the church to listen to God and do what He says. I want to lead this generation into even more freedom in Him.
- What is your favorite memory from CGA?
One of my favorite memories was diving into Romans with one of our teachers Clint Bokelman. Also, hiking with other CGAers on the Appalachian Trail. Also, doing other things like camping, hanging out and grilling… That's been awesome.
- What is your favorite aspect about CGA?
Living in community. It’s a continuation of the community and it solidifies everything we learned on the Race. From meals together, to feedback to doing things constantly alongside others… it’s good for the soul.
- What have you learned during your apprenticeship?
I have learned the in’s and out’s of Adventures. In the office I’ve learned how to take initiative and how to think outside the box. I have learned how much is poured into even a simple mission trip. It’s been eye-opening.
- What is it like working for Adventures?
It’s been awesome. Adventures is a chill environment but knows the importance of getting work done but in a fun way. It's a place where there’s a ton of opportunity to chase after a dream and whatever God wants you do to.
- How has CGA challenged you?
It’s given me an the opportunity to go forward with my passion and challenged me spiritually too. The classes pushed me to hear God’s voice and apply that to every moment, every thought.
- What would you say to Racers thinking about coming to CGA
I would say you should definitely come! CGA is a great place to come and to debrief your Race experience and at the same time continue live in community and be challenged to go forward with your passion and dream.
Apart from classes, apprenticeship, and community… there are many other opportunities at CGA. There’s always something going on. From camping trips to road tripping to simple dance parties and coffee dates, it’s a great place to be post-Race. You are invited to come along on the adventure. If you’re not positive what to do next, it is a good place to be to solidify the call God has on your life. Come to CGA, you won’t be sorry.
Is this the next step you’ve been looking for?
Check out CGA here.
