As is often the case, God takes disruption and disappointment and transforms it into a work of beauty. Such was the case with this year’s Bible Conference.
Larry Hunt mentioned in an article several weeks ago that because of COVID-19 protocols, there were not enough seats in BJU’s Amphitorium to distance both the University students and the Academy’s high school students. Not believing that livestreaming the services would be a good solution, he and others worked to create a special Bible Conference for our high school students.
It took a tremendous amount of planning and preparation, but it was worth it.
BJA’s secondary music coordinator, Nancy Tipton, coordinated special music from the high school band, strings, choir, and various small groups. Song leaders, accompanists, and ushers were also secured. Several University accompanists and musical groups jumped in to help, too. And Matt and Christy Taylor drove down from The Wilds to take part.
BJU’s Bible Conference speakers eagerly took the opportunity to preach to our high school students. They included outside speakers Will Galkin, Sam Horn, and Rand Hummel, as well as BJU’s own Steve Pettit and Alan Benson.
It was such a blessing for the entire high school and faculty to be together in the comfortable surroundings of Stratton Hall, which had been offered by BJU for the services. This stood in welcome contrast to the stark Academy gym and wooden bleachers used for chapel this year. Alone as the high school family, many of the distractions in the regular Bible Conference services in BJU’s large Amphitorium were eliminated. Speakers were able to focus directly on the needs of our students.
It was evident that God did a tremendous work. Good decisions were made. Students interacted with each other, with the speakers, and with teachers about what God was doing in their hearts. Praise the Lord!
The middle school benefitted from the disruption as well as Sam Horn and Rand Hummel spoke in their chapels.
So, next year—COVID or not—it is very likely the Academy will continue in what may become a new Bible Conference tradition.
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