The CIU House Summit brings campus unity, reflection

The CIU House Summit brings campus unity, reflection

Abby Martin and Hannah Bergland ready the bonfire at The Pointe (Photos by Caleb Pringle, student photographer)

By Naomi Balk

CIU Student Writer

Columbia International University students gathered for the House Summit on an April weekend to focus on the theme of rest and to celebrate life together over the school year. They engaged in deeper levels of community through worship, reflection, and to hear who won the House Cup. The trophy is bestowed on the House that has accumulated the most points throughout the year through various competitions and achievements called the House Collective.  

Friday evening began in the Moore Fitness Center for time of fellowship over cinnamon rolls and to discuss the topic of rest.

“To be honest, I wasn’t sure that coming to an event about rest would be restful, but it definitely has been the most spiritually restful time of my week,” Jon Reynolds said.

“There is something sweet about remembering,” added Kailee Reedy who led worship. “Part of resting is remembering what God has done.”

Students took part in the ultimate symbol of remembering — communion. It was led by CIU Professor Dr. Kevin McWilliams. He shared a Scripture-centered message and called to mind Jesus’s words in the gospel of John, “Do this in remembrance of me.”

Small group discussions about rest ushered in a soul-refreshing sense of community.

“I enjoyed the event and was thankful to hear from Dr. McWilliams,” said Abby Martin. “It was good to hear about remembering, and to talk about rest with friends. It was really fun!”

A time of games on The Quad Saturday afternoon was followed by the final House Collective event of the year. That evening at The Pointe, students laughed around a bonfire, worshipped in the beauty of a sunset and listened to student testimonies.

Then the mood changed. “Tell us who won already!” someone in the crowd shouted.

Residence Life Director Ethan Young announced the women of the House of Fidelities, also known as Petty Residence Hall, took first place giving them the honor of having the tradition of Golden Laurels placed on their building.

“We came in saying ‘This is our year,’” said Petty RA Laura Camplejohn. “I’m really excited!”

As the evening wound down, by the glow of the bonfire, the atmosphere was one of contemplation.

“This year has definitely come with its challenges,” Young said reflecting on his first year as residence life director. “I have enjoyed getting to know the students through the events. The Lord has taught me humility.”  

Columbia International University ranks #1 among colleges and universities in South Carolina by BestColleges.com. Excitement is growing on campus with the new $20 million William H. Jones Global Business & IT Center and CIU’s first baseball program. Request information on enrollment at CIU and Columbia Biblical Seminary or call (800) 777-2227, ext. 5024.