Written by Jiana Manglicmot//Photo by Abigail Callicoat
This semester, chapel has introduced a new series focusing on the seven “I Am” statements found in the Gospel of John. Guest speakers such as Dr. Monte Cox, Dr. Carl Williams, and Professor Grant Fitzhugh have each expanded on these statements which highlight the identity of Jesus Christ.
Jesus describes himself with these seven statements throughout the book of John, each revealing a unique aspect of his nature. Throughout John, Jesus refers to himself as “the bread of life,” “the light of the world,” “the door of the sheep,” “the good shepherd,” “the resurrection and the life,” “the way, the truth, and the life,” and “the true vine.”
Freshman Samuel Haviland has appreciated the structure and message of the series.
“I think that the “I Am” series has been productive and I’ve enjoyed it,” said Haviland. “I would like more series like it, or even a series going through a specific book of the Bible like 1 John, Acts, or Romans.”
Haviland has also noted the series’ relevance to students already engaged in the daily chapel program.
“I think it’s in the chapel coordinators’ best interest to appeal to those who are already interested,” said Haviland. “I think the ‘I Am’ series does a good job of giving to the people who are trying to receive from it.”
Freshman Carmen Campbell shared her thoughts on the series’ theme and impact.
“I think the overall concept of the ‘I Am’ statements traces back to the idea of abiding and how that looks in different circumstances,” said Campbell. “I like this series because you get to walk out of chapel with a morning devo and it is refreshing to your soul. I think another series like this would be a great addition to the weekly chapel rotation in the future.”
Freshman Ava Bernard said she particularly enjoyed the consistency of the series.
“I really like the ‘I Am’ Series because it’s cohesive and it’s simple,” said Bernard. “I want to be able to go to chapel and read the Bible and hear someone preach. I think it’s a good time to hear more about the Word and learn.”
Bernard also appreciated how the series has reinforced what she has studied in her daily Bible classes.
“It’s nice being a freshman who just learned about all the Gospels and seeing that content represented in chapel,” said Bernard.
As the semester progresses, the “I Am” series will continue to cover the remainder of the seven statements found in the book of John.
