Two living-learning communities, Bella Amore and Global Village, hosted a Taco Talk on “The Will Of God In Life & Love” on Tues. Oct. 29 with spoken word poet and musical artist Micah Bournes.

Bournes shared his life experiences with love, relationships and God through spoken word poetry at the event. He had a Christian perspective that appealed to students through relatability. Senior Reagyn Shoop is a Resident Assistant for the LLC Bella Amore and helped host and plan the event. Shoop mentioned how important this Taco Talk was for the community. While the event is catered towards LLC residents, it was open for any students to attend.

“It brought the art of poetry and specific discussion concerning the pursuit of love, hope and justice to residents' doorsteps. The LLCs are designed to hold a community that wants to take a deeper dive,” Shoop said. “Bournes offered this through his eagerness to share his experiences within a blend of spoken word and personal storytelling founded on the faithfulness of God.”

Alongside Shoop, Resident Assistant Tessa Ermeling from the LLC Global Village helped prepare the event. Two faculty members residing in the LLCs also contributed to the event. Associate Dean of Student Life Amanda Norris in LLC Global Village and Dr. Kristen Koenig in LLC Bella Amore worked to prepare the Taco Talk.

“We were excited to see the gifts and wisdom that Micah would bring to the LLCs, where the Concordia Community had the opportunity to come together. This is why we do what we do! The LLCs are designed to bring everyone from everywhere for community and enriching discussion,” Shoop said.

Shoop had a big takeaway from the event that impacted her as a Christian. “Bournes’s plea regarding the Lord’s faithfulness in loving us was comforting. I believe that most college

students come to a point in time when they are scared about what is to come next. What job will they have? Where will they live? Who will they be? These are all questions that we wrestle with...questions that cause anxiety. Bournes reminded us of God’s Faithfulness, in that He follows us no matter where we go, where His love and peace will never cease.”

"I enjoyed the intermingling of Bella and Global Village residents,” said Amanda Norris, Associate Dean for Student Life. “I also really enjoyed Micah's spoken word poetry. He shared poems and short stories that were very relatable. My biggest takeaway was prioritizing loving your neighbor well. Although it can be challenging sometimes, it is ultimately what God wants us to do."

Bournes’ testimony inspired residents to remain faithful to God despite uncertainty and turmoil. The Taco Talk allowed students to engage in an open discussion in fellowship with one another while focusing on spirituality at the core.

“I admired the participation of the residents as an effect of Micha Bournes’s work! I witnessed residents who had been inspired to continue the conversation past the event, heavily engaging with the themes of love, hope and justice, specifically as we strive to follow after Jesus.” Shoop said.

For more information on how to apply to live in an LLC, visit https://www.cui.edu/studentlife/living-learning-communities/how-to-apply 

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