OSU student sings praise for Wesley Foundation life --100 years of Methodist campus ministry

By Lindsey Chancellor

When I came to college in Stillwater I was saddened that I would not be a part of my church youth group on a regular basis. It took me some time to realize God still had a plan for my faith journey.

The Wesley Foundation at Oklahoma State University has provided me with many avenues to pursue my faith. The most meaningful program is International Choir.

It gives me a glimpse of the wonderful world of people who are created in God’s image. It is an informal atmosphere, in which relationships are more important than the music we make.

I never thought I would get to make a joyful noise to the Lord in Hindi, Arabic, Spanish, Creole, Hakka, or Korean. International choir has helped me fully understand the beauty of diversity.

As someone who grew up with many years of formal music training, the choir was quite a culture shock.

People talked over each other in different languages, but were somehow still able to join together in a common song. I was given a leadership role.

I have come to look forward to my Thursday nights with this unpredictable group of students. It is just one of the ways the Wesley Foundation at OSU has facilitated my exploration of my relationship with Christ.

In the three years I have been at OSU, I have done many programs at the Wesley that allowed me to step outside of my own perspective and have new experiences. Discussion groups, prayer groups, health classes, and international groups each have provided me with different perspectives for my faith journey.

The most important change I have noticed in myself is how strong I am. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." I have grown up hearing this verse repeated exhaustively, but it wasn’t until I was on my own that I was able to understand it.

As I have grown deeper in my relationship with Christ, I have come to realize how strong I can be through him.

The Wesley Foundation at OSU is my home. I may not live there, but it is the place I go to seek comfort, guidance, and to feel at peace. I have realized how special this place is. It would not have been possible for me to cultivate these relationships and leadership opportunities without this space.

Every day I use things at the Wesley without thinking about it, from furniture to forks. Faithful people support us through gifts and prayers. I have the deepest gratitude.

Capital campaign at $7 million

The Wesley Foundation at OSU has received commitments totaling $7 million toward its $15 million capital campaign goal. The "Imagine Campaign" challenges the Wesley and supporters to continue growing toward the future, as the ministry transforms lives and plans a new facility. For information: campus minister Michael Bartley, 405-880-7194, osupastor@gmail.com.