September 29, 2016
Around 100 students from East Texas Baptist University joined in prayer for one another, their families, their community, the nation, and the world this morning from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. as a part of a worldwide initiative-See You at the Pole.
"We prayed for unity on campus, racially, and between athletes and non-athletes," ETBU Senior Brett Forbus of Kilgore said. "We prayed for the community of Marshall, and that students bring their faith outside of their bubble and share it in their community by being more involved."
As a Christ-centered institution, ETBU supports the vision that See You at the Pole represents-the idea of a community of believers coming together for a common goal.
"What is powerful about See You at the Pole is knowing that you are a part of something that is much bigger than just your campus community," ETBU Vice President for Spiritual Development Scott Bryant said. "I am always impressed at our student's sense of concern for one another. Sometimes college students are thought of as being selfish or egocentric, but our students regularly demonstrate a concern and care for their fellow students and the world, which is very refreshing."
The University began participating in See You at the Pole over ten years ago and plans to continue. ETBU's morning program this year included breakfast, worship, and prayer.
"My favorite part was worship, because I committed time to focus my mind on God prior to praying," ETBU Senior Major Madison Pratt of Grand Prairie said. "Hearing the people in my group pray for the future president was inspiring. To live in a country where we are able to do that is amazing."
This event began over 25 years ago with ten students praying for their school in Burleson, Texas. It then spread to public schools across the nation. Now, millions across the world pray on school and college campuses on the fourth Wednesday of September each year.
"It is a great way to join with the rest of the Christian community for an intentional time of praying together," ETBU Baptist Student Ministry Director Mark Yates said. "Luckily, we have the freedom to do that."