51������

Life is always full of challenges, but 2020 felt different. Things felt altered.

In a season of virtual workplaces, endless Zoom calls, and social distancing, the COVID-19 pandemic has put the word “community” into sharp focus. It's caused us here at 51������ to consider: what does it really mean to be part of authentic, life-giving Christian fellowship with those around us? 

In this issue, we’ve invited voices from across the 51������ family to explore this theme. We reflect on the value of community in a year marked by isolation, and we tell the stories of those working to show Christ’s love in the pandemic’s dark places. Through it all, we’re proclaiming this biblical message: We are not alone.   

In Matthew 28, Jesus gives His followers this promise: “Surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” We held onto that promise through 2020, and we’re holding onto it for tomorrow, too. We hope that our 51������ family of alumni and friends will be strengthened and encouraged by this issue.

No matter what, you are not alone!

“For me, spiritual community means hope,
and I appreciate the presence and support of others now more than ever.” 

Brianna Hudson
Class of 2022

“My community with 51������, my church, and my family is here, around me now, and I need to take advantage of every opportunity to engage it. I hope that whatever value we take from this last year will continue on. I don’t want things to go back to normal; I want life to change for the better.”   

Natalie Church
Campus Care Coordinator

“Before the pandemic, I may have said that community was being around people with shared values, ideas, or goals. Now, I believe community can come in the simplest of forms.”

Sunshine Hattingh
Director of Student Academic Services

“When the love of Christ drives me, I have
the strength of ‘I will.’ I will love my neighbor.
I will be in community with others. I will care for those who are disenfranchised. I will prioritize ministry. I will… I will… I will…” 

Kyle White
VP for Student Development

“For me, 2020 was a season of increasing my faith and trust in the Lord. I leaned on Psalm 56:3: ‘When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.’ The Bible reminds us the Lord will not leave us, a comfort when we feel alone.  This pandemic season is memorable and offered opportunities for growth if one was brave enough to seize it.”

Jana Russell
Academic Advising Coordinator