September 2: New Beginnings on Campus

            God created us in God’s image, and we in turn can consider ourselves as creators. We stand before a new academic year considering how we will shape and mold our lives. At this time we thank God for all the opportunities that lie before us and recognize God’s presence in all events in the past and in the future. We ask for God’s blessing of new dorm rooms, new classes, new classmates, and new friendships. May God heal us of the pain and regrets of the past so that we may transform this new beginning on campus into a period of great discovery and inquiry.

Image by Ellen Kneeskern '18

Discovery: September 2 through October 20

Introduction

We recognize that God has created a world of infinite complexities. Each of God’s people houses a rich inner life and a wealth of potential. At the beginning of this school year, we commit ourselves to the discovery of these wondrous creations.

            We ask for God’s guidance as we uncover new relationships, new interests, and new purposes in our lives here on campus. We thank God for providing us with many teachers, from Jesus Christ and Disciples to the people who emulate Jesus’s teachings on Earth today. We take this time to recognize what is often forgotten, mainly the gifts of God found in ourselves and in others.
             As with all beginnings, we feel a sense of opportunity at the start of this new academic year. Let us thank God for all that lies before us. May we use our pursuit of discovery to glorify God’s name and to help God’s creation.