Huge Parade of World Flags Opens CIU’s 100th Anniversary, Global Mission Conference

Flags representing 160 nations were on parade at the entrance to the Columbia International University campus for the ceremonial opening of CIU’s Future of Global Mission Conference, Nov. 2-4. CIU has 24,000 alumni serving in the 160 nations.

To the sound of bagpipes, the CIU students, alumni, faculty and staff marched the flags down International Boulevard, the entrance to CIU, and into Shortess Chapel where they were met by the singing of CIU’s Ambassador Choir. The flags represent the nations where CIU alumni minister and work around the world.   

One of CIU’s core values is World Evangelization and reflected in CIU’s mission: “Columbia International University educates people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ.”

The Future of Global Mission Conference is a part of CIU’s yearlong 100th anniversary celebration that continues through November of 2023. CIU’s student body is attending the three-day conference along with CIU alumni and community members. The conference culminates with a concert performed by Grammy and Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter Laura Story, a 2003 CIU alumna.

Featured speakers at the conference include:

•           Anthropologist Dr. Bob Priest

•           Ethnomusicologist Dr. Robin Harris

•           The President of the Mission Agency “Pioneers,” Mr. Steve Richardson

•           Vice President of Global Church Movements at Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ), Dr. Bekele Shanko

•           President of CIU, Dr. Mark A. Smith

As the flags were paraded behind him at the entrance to Shortess Chapel, Smith said he was humbled to be a part of the festivities. Speaking of CIU alumni, he said, "There are so many giants who have gone before me." 

"I just want to lay my crowns at the feet of Jesus, and say, 'Jesus give them all the credit,'" Smith continued. "I just want to worship with them." 

More information on CIU's 100h anniversary is at www.ciu.edu/100. 

CIU is celebrating 100 years of "educating people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ." The university consistently ranks among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a Best Value Regional University in the South. Apply now or request information on enrollment by contacting Admissions at (803) 807-5024 or admissions@ciu.edu.