First Chapel “Catches Up” on Community and Liberal Arts

The first chapel of the year reminded students of the value of a liberal arts education and, in the spirit of that, provided a taste of philosophy, religion, and history.

As part of the history lesson, Dr. Steve Timmermans shared 12 snapshots of the development of liberal arts and the contributions from philosophers, theologians, researchers and others over the centuries. Timmermans framed the message, “Catching Up on Community and the Liberal Arts,” with verses from Galatians 6, explaining that the liberal arts allow people “to be best faithful to God’s call on [their] lives.”

Based on the verses, Timmermans expounded on four points from scripture that apply to the study of liberal arts:

1. Reach out, especially to the oppressed.

2. Carefully explore who you are.

3. Enter into community life with those who have trained you.

4. Be set free from stifling patterns.

Worship time was led by students; the scripture reading was given by a staff member; and the blessing was given by Chaplain Bill Van Groningen.