Written by Stefan Hanson
Working in a fast-paced corporate setting can be challenging for anyone, but especially for Christians who are serious in their faith. In today’s culture, where personal beliefs and professional expectations can conflict, keeping a Christ-centered attitude requires intentional effort and grace from God. For Sara Rodriguez-Gaines, a Northwestern Alumna who works at the Minnesota Star Tribune as an event and communications coordinator, working in a secular business has taught her to stay firm in her faith while also staying kind.
After almost a year in her role in events and communications, Rodriguez-Gaines has learned what it means to represent Christ through her actions more than her words. She describes her workplace as “high-paced and fast,” adding that “plans don’t always live up to reality” because of the nature of the job. For many Christians in today’s corporate world, a demanding pace and environment can make it hard to stay centered on faith every day.
“For me” Rodriguez-Gaines says, “being a Christian means showing up with a smile and being a positive influence in weighty situations.” While she attempts to be a Christian light, she acknowledges that it has not always been easy. She has noticed that coworkers and superiors possibly treat her differently or at least recognize differences in her lifestyle. “For example, I don’t swear,” she said also mentioning that she tries to keep all her conversations respectful.
Although there may be tension, she aims to remain respectful and remember who she is ultimately serving. To stay grounded, she says that “prayer is huge,” as well as consistently returning to the Bible to be firmly rooted. Another thing that has helped Rodriguez-Gaines is a Christian community. She says that being able to fellowship with other believers on a regular basis is key to staying strong in her faith.
When asked about what advice she would give other Christians in similar environments, her response was simple: “be unwavering,” she said, highlighting Northwestern’s’ slogan UNWavering. “There will always be challenges, but it’s important to view the workplace as a ministry” she says.
For Rodriguez-Gaines, her short but impactful time at the Star Tribune has taught her the importance of choosing integrity, compassion, and strength to fight compromise. Secular jobs are not going to disappear; it is important to recognize that Christians should use them as an opportunity to be a light, even if it means risking position or reputation.
