ASCUI celebrated Theme Verse Week with the rest of the student body at the beginning of the month. Isaiah 43:18-19: 

“Do not remember the former things and do not dwell on times past.

Look! I am about to do something new!

It is springing up even now; don't you recognize it?

I will even make a way in the wilderness, rivers in the desert.”

To highlight our theme “Something New,” ASCUI focused on nature and the idea of bringing something new into our own lives.

Monday of Theme Verse Week featured students displaying “Something New” they have experienced this year by writing on autumn leaves outside the cafeteria. On Tuesday, students “dug” for prizes such as candy, compasses, chapsticks, and a pair of nature-themed socks.

Wednesday featured a build-your-own trail mix bar as well as a chance to spin the wheel for more small prizes. On Thursday, students were able to take home a mystery potted plant that sprouted a surprise flower. Friday, ASCUI continued to give out prizes through a “cup shuffle” for students to engage in.

ASCUI President Ryan Jones said, “One cool way we saw students interacting with the verse was when they were planting succulents at lunch. It was a great reminder of God’s love, springing up through our lives.”

Throughout the week, ASCUI was selling “Something New” crewneck sweatshirts that featured this year’s theme verse and logo on the back. In addition to the smaller prizes, students filled out raffle tickets for a chance to win big prizes such as an engraved Hydro Flask with the theme verse logo, a new hammock, and gift cards to both REI and Dick's Sporting Goods. Winners of the raffle included Greta Jones, Jarrett Donhan, Kristen Hormon and Yanil Meneces.

On Wednesday night, leadership held a Coffeehouse Night in Sigma General where students participated in a wood-burning craft-- and CUI President Michael Thomas made a surprise appearance with cookies!

ASCUI Secretary Alexis Wood said, “My favorite moment [of Theme Verse Week] was coffeehouse night when Dr. Thomas surprised everyone by bringing homemade chocolate chip cookies!”

Student Sam Barnett led the group in a few worship songs before Jason St. Pierre shared a devotion focusing on our theme verse in Isaiah. St. Pierre asked students “if they are hearing, listening, and understanding what God has told them to do.” We have a unique opportunity to share God’s love even on our own college campus.

ASCUI Club Commissioner Anna Heirendt said, “Coffeehouse night created an opportunity to have faith-based conversations with students I would not have normally interacted with. Jason’s devotion sparked conversations about where and how God is calling us in this new season.”

Sneak peak to Concordia Christmas! Concordia will be ringing in the Christmas spirit after Thanksgiving Break, so mark the night of Dec. 2 on your calendar. Concordia Christmas will be a Carnival, lighting up the BMC patio with dozens of Christmas lights hung up by University Services.'

Calling all student leaders! This Sunday afternoon, Nov. 28, show your Christmas Spirit and help your fellow classmates set up Christmas lights around campus. 

Tags: Alexander Carr, Theme Verse, community, event

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