by Laura Guichelaar, ‘14
Hey everyone, welcome (back) to CTS! Life around here can be hectic, but there are some things that bring out the best in CTS life. Looking back over my past two years, I wanted to share some of the things that have made my life at CTS more enjoyable!
1) Donut Day!!! In case no one has mentioned it, Wednesdays there are donuts after chapel! Taking a break while enjoying a donut is not only good for your sanity, but also provides a great time to get to know your fellow students, as well as the faculty and staff! Somehow donuts make the week go by a little bit easier and really, donuts are just awesome. Those who take donuts prior to the arrival of the chapel crowd will be subject to a 10-page theological reflection on the 8th Commandment. (Just kidding!)
2) Friendly Staff. When you first arrive you may not have specific reasons to go visit the various staff members, but once you do, you quickly discover there are many awesome people around who are helping to make our lives at CTS happen. They are also very helpful as they usually manage to make things as smooth as possible. One especially helpful staff member to know is Karlene Werner, as she is the one who holds onto your paper if you forget to put your mailbox number on it! You can find her office at the lower end of the faculty hallway near the classrooms.
3) Student Senate Fellowship Committee Events. Every year Student Senate arranges a number of Seminary-wide events that help build and bolster the CTS community. From Christmas Around the World to The Medenblik Stick, Dies Natalis and the Ping Pong Tournament, these events provide times for fun, food and fellowship! If you’re interested in being on the Fellowship Committee, consider running for Student Senate, otherwise keep an eye on your mailbox and inbox for information about upcoming events!
4) Chapel. Twice a week, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10am, the CTS community meets for a time of worship, prayer and reflection. As well as providing a time to take a step away from our classes and books, chapel is an opportunity to learn and grow with one another as we reflect on what God has done, what he is doing in our lives today and what he will continue to do.
5) Clubs. Every year students gather together around mutual interests. From the Seminary Justice club to Γραμματικός (Grammatikos) to Toastmasters or the Scripture Memory Club there are a wide range of clubs that provide the opportunity to explore various interests, learn about new subjects or gain new skills. A list of all of the clubs will be sent to you in a few weeks along with the contacts for each group; if you find a group that catches your interest or piques your curiosity, contact the club organizer for further information!
Anyways, I hope that this will help you give shape to your time at CTS and that you find your own list of things that make life at CTS enjoyable!