New Students at VU in Richmond
This past weekend, I had the privilege of joing the Samuel Dewitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University for their new student opening service and orientation.  We had real church there, with a stirring message from Dean Kinney, praising God in prayer and song, and brief introductions from the faculty.   Graciously, STVU offered me a chance to address challenges in Ecumenical learning today, and to introduce the Consortium.

I met and spoke with a number of  students and faculty through a followup “table fair” with other organizations.   Students were very interested in the use of other libraries, Consortium courses in special areas, certificate programs and the chance to take courses closer to home (as many commute). Above all, they sought to learn and grow professionally and spiritually wherever God lead them–in part echoing Dr. Kinney’s message of following “invitation,” “preparation” and “destination” in being called to a new place.

STVU students are spirited, smart, and very real in their devotion to the Lord’s calling.   I found myself renewed and challenged in my own sense of vocation and walk with Jesus.