We encounter God in an intimate relationship through daily prayer, the sacraments and the Scriptures.
Hey! My name is Ben Hepworth. Thank you for checking out my giving page!
After graduating from the University of West Florida (December 2023), studying Business Management, I responded to God’s invitation to invest in college students and walk with them as they grow in their faith and come to know Jesus in a personal way. I was sent to Texas State University, and I am excited to spend this year in San Marcos, Texas!
Life lived with Jesus has been the most radical adventure of my life and has led me to places I would have never imagined. The Lord continues to transform my life and I’m excited for what he has in store as I step into being a focus missionary!
Heading into college, I knew that I wanted faith to be part of my life but I wasn’t quite sure what that would look like. My faith for way too long was just another box to check. I didn’t understand the importance of living in total reliance on God and having a true relationship with Him. My identity in high school was more wrapped up in the sports I played rather than as a son of God. I always thought my faith was something I would take seriously later in my life. Throughout my time in college, I slowly began to realize the longing I had for an intimate relationship with Christ. It was when I finally decided to give one simple “yes” after another that my life was transformed. My sister (olivia), who was a focus missionary, had a huge impact on this. She challenged me to give more of my life to Christ and to not just keep my faith to myself. It is something that has to be shared with others. My time spent in bible studies and investing in my faith has been some of the times that have given me the most joy in life. My family, along with faithful friends that continued walking with me throughout my years in college, taught me the art of living a life joyfully rooted in Christ, showed me the beauty of the Church, and walked with me as I began to fall in love with our Lord.
College is a time that young people undergo so many transitions. They often have the choice for the first time in their lives whether or not they will go to mass. Additionally they will make big decisions that affect the rest of their lives – what career they will have, who they want to become, and whether or not they will live a life of faith. Our college campuses are in need of more individuals who are excited to step into the lives of students and lead them to a relationship with Jesus.”I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). That is why I am a FOCUS missionary. To lead others into a life lived abundantly with Christ.
When I answered the call to join FOCUS, I made the decision to rely on the spiritual and financial support of mission partners to make serving students full-time possible. It has been a delight to invite people to come on mission with me in various ways. Please contact me if you are interested in learning more about how you can join me on this mission to lead students to a life with Christ! I’d be honored to share this mission with you.
We encounter God in an intimate relationship through daily prayer, the sacraments and the Scriptures.
By building genuine friendships, we meet students on a deeper level.
We teach students how to share the gospel, who in turn teach other students how to pass it on.