NW Valley Times

A student and her father on Tuesday tied a colored ribbon on the Prayer Fence at the south end of Prescott Field, marking a significant moment during Grand Canyon University's Welcome Week.

“If you are looking to go deeper in your faith, this is 100% the place you’ll find it,” Worship Manager Jared Ulrich said to a room full of students at the Faith in Your First Year session.

The event, held in GCU’s Prayer Chapel, was organized by Spiritual Life to inform new students about ministry opportunities available on campus. Every seat was filled as Ulrich welcomed students, encouraging them to fill any available floor space. “You will quickly learn this is normal at GCU; at all our events students just sit wherever there is room.”

Ulrich introduced four key initiatives offered weekly during the academic year:

- Chapel at 11 a.m. on Mondays.

- Spiritual Formation workshops at 3:30 p.m. on Mondays.

- The Gathering at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.

- The Sanctuary at 6:30 p.m. on Thursdays.

These programs aim to foster spiritual growth through worship and teachings.

Junior Spiritual Formation leader Meredyth McClue shared her personal journey with faith: “I grew up in a Christian school, so I’ve heard a lot about Jesus, but I didn’t know Him in my heart,” she said. “When I came to GCU, I learned how to know God as my father, friend and everything He is in His character.”

McClue was joined by sophomore Sara Schelonka and senior Brooklyn Cox for a panel discussion where they shared their experiences as student leaders.

Freshman Gianna Albright expressed her eagerness to engage with GCU's spiritual offerings: “I am trying to get a grasp of what GCU offers because I want to get involved with the spiritual aspect of GCU.”

Ulrich concluded by highlighting various student leadership positions within Spiritual Life that are open each spring semester, including roles in Global and Local Outreach, Spiritual Formation workshops, worship, and production.

Spiritual Life Director Erik Nelsen emphasized the importance of faith: “We want to encourage students to make their faith the rock and foundation on which they stand.” He also mentioned an ongoing initiative involving the GCU Prayer Fence where ribbons symbolize prayers and hopes for the academic year.

The upcoming Ignite event on Sept. 3 will offer new students further insight into campus spirituality through worship led by University Pastor Dr.Tim Griffin and music from the Worship team.

Freshman Bailey Cass commented on her transition to college life: “Moving for college can be very stressful,” she said.“Knowing I have a team of people that really support me and pray over me helps.”

GCU staff writer Izabela Fogarasi can be reached at [email protected].

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