New changes were put in place with Summit, a long-standing tradition that includes three days of spiritual emphasis at Indiana Wesleyan University.
For as long as Campus Pastor Andrea Summers can remember, Summit has consisted of one speaker who speaks at multiple sessions during the week they are at IWU.
However, this year features three speakers who divide up the various sessions.
These speakers include David Thomas, Patty Bray and Rob Lim. They come from a variety of backgrounds, which is one of the aspects Summers said as a key point of excitement in the changes.
Over the course of three days, students had the opportunity to attend morning and evening sessions with these speakers. Speakers covered topics such as prayer, spiritual awakening, and how to take one’s faith into the marketplace.
Summers said that this change is the result of conversations with both leaders in the Spiritual Formation Office and students.
Summers said that with individuals such as Rob Lim, who comes from a background in the business world, the SFO is excited about more student connections with the speakers.
With any change, there is the potential for pushback, but Summers said, “So far, I haven’t felt or heard any pushback at all.”
CJ Kelley, the Student Body Chaplain of prayer, said the SFO’s mission for the year, which is “the heart of Christ in every student.” He also said that Summit is designed to be an inviting space for students.
“Prayer is supposed to be accessible for all Christians.” Kelley said. One way the chapel staff supported this goal was by opening the chapel for prayer before the evening service.
MJ Brown, a senior at Indiana Wesleyan, said that he appreciated the chance to participate in the pre-service prayer.
“I thought it was a great opportunity,” Brown said.
Having experienced both the old format of Summit and the new, Brown said he liked the change of pace.
“It brings different perspectives with having multiple speakers,” Brown said. “I think more students are engaged because they connect with at least one.”
