On Sat. April 11, student coordinators from abbey west, faculty, alumni and the student body joined together for a night of food, fellowship and outreach. Night of Hope has become an annual tradition for Concordia and combines musical and visual arts with ministry and encouragement. In previous years, the event was held in the Nelson Amphitheater and the CU Center and featured guest worship bands. However, this year, Night of Hope took on a new design with attendees gathering in the Student Union. 

The Student Union Cafeteria was transformed into a lively event that featured visual art from students, student and alumni musical performances, service opportunities, crafts, tacos and a churro stand. This year, senior Katie Crowder, Witness Coordinator for abbey west took on a leadership role in planning this event. “I went to Night of Hope last year, and it was a fun concert atmosphere in the gym. I was really excited to be a part of it this year,” said Crowder.

While many events on campus encourage fellowship, Night of Hope remains a beloved Concordia tradition for the efforts that are raised towards local missions. As attendees enjoyed their food, students involved in abbey west were present at booths to lead people through assembling various crafts and items to give to those in need. 

“We pivoted the event because we wanted there to be a place where people could gather for a long time. Having community over dinner is a great way to encourage fellowship. We were able to collaborate with the Alumni Relations team so we could secure the food and the churro truck,” said Crowder. The adjustments to Night of Hope were successful, as the cafeteria was filled with attendees, music and hearts ready to serve. 

One specific takeaway from this event is the simplicity and effectiveness of small gestures. Crowder emphasized the significance of adding meaningful crafts for this event that have greater spiritual meaning. “I was in charge of figuring out what crafts would be beneficial and easy. I am brainstorming with others to figure out how to get connected with local charities. We wanted the crafts to point people to prayer and point people to Jesus,” said Crowder.

Looking over the making of origami hearts was sophomore Kaelyn Cheney. “The paper hearts are reminders to give to people in your life that they are loved by God,” said Cheney. She added, “Student coordinators planned all of the crafts. We have blankets for people who are experiencing homelessness and cards to encourage people.”

Hannah Springer, student coordinator of Sunday Source, was overseeing the tying of felt blankets and the event. She stated, “We are tying these blankets for people in need and their dogs. It could go to Charity on Wheels, or local homeless shelters.” 

By attaching a student event to a wider cause, there is a greater meaning and significance that goes into attending these events. As the name of the event suggests, Night of Hope is designed not only to lift the spirits of students and faculty in fellowship but also to provide comfort to those in need. For more information on future Night of Hope events and other outreach and service opportunities, visit the abbey west instagram at @abbeywest_cui. 

Tags: abbeywest, faith, alumnus

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About Rebekah Michel

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