By: Kate Nordhaus/
On Wednesday, August 21, Howard Payne University kicked off its first week of
school with its ceremonial Convocation chapel.
Each semester, Wednesdays at 10 a.m. are set aside for HPU students, faculty, and staff to gather together in Mims Auditorium to worship and listen to a speaker.
The theme for this school year is “Stand Firm.” HPU President Cory Hines said that he chose this year’s verse because each spring he prays for the Lord to draw him to a theme and/or verse.
“I begin to prayerfully weed through the options I have before me until I am at peace and settled on a theme and verse,” he said.
The theme is derived from 1 Corinthians 15:58, where the Apostle Paul says, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Hines believes it is important to stand firm in the faith by mentioning that these verses are used to encourage the students at HPU, that when the student body gathers at chapel, they should feel inspired to stand firm in truth and to remain steadfast in a world that tries to sway believers in Christ.
“I pray the Holy Spirit will prompt our students to go all in and fully give themselves to the work that God has for them – for themselves and for others,” Hines said.
By embracing this calling, students have the potential to grow not only in their own faith journey but also impact those around them.
Throughout the year, HPU brings in a diverse amount of speakers to talk to the students each week.
Hines said he is especially excited to hear the speaker on Oct. 16, Dr. Casey Merrifield.
“I admire and respect her tremendously. Her company is all about leadership development, and I look forward to having her here with us,” he said.
Students often enjoy hearing from the various speakers speaking on different topics that relate to their faith.
Sarah Krusing, sophomore allied health and honors academy major from Van Alstyne, said that she loves having a dedicated time each week to worship with her classmates.
“I love hearing the Lord speak through so many different sermons,” she added.
This year’s line-up of chapel speakers should be an inspiring group for the school year.
By staff writer Kate Nordhaus.