Columbia International University students celebrated the school’s core value of Evangelical Unity with three days of music and messages.

Evangelical unity means accepting other Christians of evangelical conviction, regardless of denominational or theological affinity, for purposes of fellowship, encouragement, edification and ministry. 

Tuesday opened with a few familiar praise songs from the chapel team, followed by a Chinese hymn sung by keyboardist Joshua Zhang. While most of the students were unfamiliar with the language, an English translation was posted on an overhead screen. Many students were impacted by its simple yet profound lyrics about the unfailing love that Christ offers. After the music, Dr. Andre Melvin, director of CIU’s Prison Initiative, discussed unity in the midst of diversity among believers. His message was just as lighthearted as it was inspiring, as he reflected on the importance of appreciating each other’s differences.

“You might prefer worshipping with acoustic guitar, while I might prefer doing so with the B3 Hammond organ,” Dr. Melvin said with a smile. “But both of them can be music to God’s ears because what matters more is singing praises to Him.”

Wednesday was a day of unity and worship through music.

On Thursday, Professor Emeritus Dr. Bryan Beyer, who also serves on the CIU Board of Trustees, reflected on the fact that while there are several biblical truths that we must cling to regardless of denomination, there will always be “grey” areas in Scripture that we may not understand how to address accurately. However, he said, this does not mean that we should force our opinions upon others, because our knowledge is not the final authority — God is.

Worship team singer, AnnaJaye Walters, a junior and Bible Teaching major, called the week, “a fresh wind from the Holy Spirit for me and for many others.”

Higher learning. Deeper faith. A Christ-centered community on campus and online. Apply now or request information on enrollment at CIU by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.