Prayer Chapel dedicated
October 21, 2009
Last year’s student-led initiative for a Prayer Chapel on campus culminated this fall with a dedication service for the completed structure. About 500 students, employees, and honored volunteer workers came together, first in the Psalm Performing Arts Center for praise and worship, and then on site for prayers of blessing.
Campus Pastor Kent Kersey said the Chapel began as a few students’ vision to demonstrate what Corban, as a Christian college, values. “I believe [the building of the Chapel] was God-orchestrated. … It is a place where you can intentionally go and be with God.”
“It’s not that God is any more present in the Prayer Chapel than He is in the Dining Hall or some other place on campus,” Kersey continued. “But it is another chance for us to recognize that, ultimately, this life is about Him, and He has given us the honor and blessing of participating with Him in His work through the gift of prayer.”
Vice President for Marketing Steve Hunt recognized alumnus Tim Dixon (’92), Salem-area contractor, who donated many volunteer hours and most of the materials toward creating the building. Dixon also guided three seniors—Josh Warner, Cameron Elliott, and Anthony Darling—as they volunteered regularly and diligently during the final stages of construction this fall. Dixon and his extended family members were on hand to celebrate what was a crowning moment for the Dixons and the Corban community.
The Chapel, with its cross steeple, is picturesque under the towering firs of the upper campus. “It really dresses up this hillside,” Dixon said.
Kersey also noted the small building’s aesthetic appeal, tucked away in the trees near Balyo Hall. Inside the Chapel, he said, several donated furnishings add to the ambiance such as reupholstered mini-pews and a stained glass cross in the north window. A large map of the world, donated by the Minstries Department, hangs on the east wall. It reminds those who come to pray, said Kersey: “We are not alone.”
The Chapel is intended for both individual and small-group times of prayer. Several groups of faculty and staff have met to pray for student needs for years, said Daren Milionis, Director of Student Support. A small group that he helps lead will continue to pray weekly. They look forward to meeting in the Chapel each Monday at the lunch hour, and he invited employees and students alike to come and go at that time.
Closing dedication prayers, with the campus community gathered around, were offered by President Reno Hoff and ASB President Josh Warner. Afterward, all were invited to go inside and view the Chapel.
By Jenny Hirschfelder, Staff Writer, Office of Marketing & Communications
503-375-7005 | jhirschfelder@corban.edu
