Near the end of the 18th century, John Wesley organized his traveling preachers into a legal corporation that he called “The Conference.” But the preachers began to use another term to describe their relationship: “Connexion.” They wanted to emphasize that it was not primarily a religious institution, but a body, a group of Christians bound by a common mission and purpose.
“Connexions” reflects Olivet Nazarene University’s tradition and conviction that the most important values we hold are the relationships we develop with God and with each other. The School of Graduate and Continuing Studies aims not only to give men and women the tools they need to succeed in their individual careers, but also the spiritual encouragement and challenge they need to make an impact in their world for Christ.
With that in mind, the School of Graduate and Continuing Studies established the Connexions ministry program in 2004 to provide a spiritual support network for students. Today, Rev. Joan Dean gives leadership to the program as the School’s chaplain.
Rev. Dean has served as a pastor, minister of education, youth pastor and children’s pastor in congregations in England, Kentucky, Alabama, North Carolina and Illinois.
Rev. Dean is a gifted listener and counselor, and regularly meets with School of Graduate and Continuing Studies students in the classroom setting and on an individual basis. She also provides weekly devotional thoughts to students, faculty and staff.