lktivifies enwurage closer lJJalk lJJifh God In its quest to educate for eternity, Harding overflows each day with opportunities for students to hear and become involved in spreading the gospel or simply to gain encouragement for a closer walk with God. Activities for spiritual growth are both extracurricular and curricular in nature. With more than 20 social clubs and more than 10 service organizations, students are given the chance to experience the meaning of servanthood and fellowship. "When you decide to join a club or any other organization, you must first look at and consider the values that are promoted by them. The different thing is that, at Harding, Jesus is the center and the standard for living, and all organizations will enhance you spiritually and personally," Hank Bingham, a member of TNT, said. The spiritual life committee of the Student Association strives to connect students with an organization or opportunity to meet and challenge their spiritual needs. Andrew Baker, director of the committee, said, "We are here to let students know that we have many ministries in which they can participate. Not only will their participation encourage and help others, but it will be an encouragement to them as well." In fact, it seems that every aspect of Harding is designed to aid students in deepening their relationships with fellow Christians , even in the classes. Senior Julie Hall said, "It is good to know that you and your teachers share the same belief as to what truth is; I cannot tell you how many times a classroom prayer has changed my day." Harding has something for everyone: a time-out devotional in front of the Benson, a home Bible study or a mission campaign. Senior Scott Thibodeaux said, "Those Thursday night devos are a lifesaver. Sometimes I'll go just to escape homework or my roommates , but whatever the reason I go, I always leave blessed and with better insight." Brandon Smith went on a missionary internship to Jinja, Uganda. "I would venture to say that going to Africa is the highlight of my college experience so far. I saw, first hand, how real the spirit world was. I would tell anyone who has not been on a missions campaign to go because God will change your life." Harding provides many options from which students may choose to gain spiritual growth, but one daily routine has been built into the schedule and required ofall students since the university's inception in 1924. Chapel brings the entire student body together each day for a brieftime ofworship and announcements of interest to all. "Chapel is a great way to prepare for the day. Sitting in a room with more than 2000 other students and hearing them lift up the name of Jesus in song is just incredible. It will be one of my favorite memories of Harding," senior Wendy Frye said. - Rebecca West Robert Logsdon takes advantage of a few extra minutes to study for his Bible class. Bible classes were one of many facets of spiritual life for every full-time student. Photo by Aaron Gillihan. Spiritual Life 33
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