2006 Miracle Yearbook

When September is well-worn and the days of summer truly a memory, a crisp edge breaks into the wind, bringing not only the arrival of fall, but the first slump of the school year. Serving as a break from the average and the everyday, the annual Day of Prayer, held September 21, was, as freshman Elizabeth Martin found, "an excellent time to refocus our thoughts and turn our attention back to prayer." Light chatter fell away as the Day of Prayer began with a special call to worship by guest singer/songwriter Josh Bales. His unique way of combining traditional hymns and ancient Christian texts with contemporary music helped set the stage for the prayer and sermon to come. Megan Waters, a sophomore, reminded me that it is so helpful to remember that we are a part of a bigger story: the historic, Christian narrative." G After then praying for the needs of our university family, country, and world, Dr. Ted Traylor, Pastor of Olive Baptist Church in Pensacola, Florida, encouraged us to learn to pray using the lessons found within the Lord's Prayer. The Day of Prayer was anything but ordinary. As sophomore Debbie Strutton said, "It was a perfect introduction to a day centered around communication with God." "I found that Josh Bales's emphasis on singing time-worn hymns and reciting communal Christian creeds helped me to see my faith more holistically, as one part of the larger picture of Christianity," stated sophomore Megan Waters. ,r With a refreshing break in tradition of an all-prayer service, Dr. Ted Traylor speaks to the student body about prayer. •A• Many students take this time to give to God those struggles they are facing. Arielle Dorsey and Mugabe Thomas take the time for some solitary prayer. A. Enjoying the time of corporate prayer,freshman Kyle Smith stated, "I am now challenged to focus more on my prayer life, knowing that it will further my relationship with God." ...Junior Melissa Borton worships her God and praises Him for the privilage it is "to have a day set aside to go before our Heavenly Father as a student body and dedicate our semester to Him for His honor and glory." Fall 27