La Sierra’s president calls on students to find their grand adventure

La Sierra University President Randal Wisbey, in a convocation address on Sept. 30 titled “The Grand Adventure,” drew upon the transformative life model of Francis of Assisi, the son of a wealthy 13^th century textile merchant and a soldier. He described to the students who packed into the La Sierra University Church the dramatic changes that occurred in Francis’ life when through a series of events, Francis gave up his wealth and possessions to aid those in need and to proclaim the teachings of Christ in barefoot travels around the Italian countryside.

“His was an adventure that has had a remarkable and global impact as he challenged the church of the day—and each person who has come face to face with his powerful testimony since that time—to live simply and in faith, trusting God,” said Wisbey. “So many who have left a transformative imprint upon the world have integrated Francis’ commitment to non-violence, his assurance in Christ’s call, his compassion for the poorest of the poor, his passionate dream for his church." 

Wisbey’s message centered around the notion of vocation as a grand adventure and its implications in one’s life. “Vocation is deeper than a mere job or a task we routinely perform, and is something beyond those definitions. It comes from the Latin vocare, to call, and it means the work a person is called to by God,” he said. “One of my favorite authors, Frederick Buechner, defines vocation as “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.”

“Sometimes we do not know what to do when confronted with the world’s many needs—we do not know what to do with the world’s deep hunger. We feel helpless to know how to respond.  As I reflect upon Francis’ life, I have come to the conclusion that he could only do these things because of his singular desire to love as Jesus loves,” Wisbey said.

He advised the students, in their quest for their God-given calling, to take advantage of the many privileges afforded by a small campus and to seek out mentors from among La Sierra’s professors, as well as “the rich resources for inner transformation” available through chaplains and pastors, the university’s counseling center, soon-opening Career Center, Center for Student Academic Success and other services.

“College is a time to ask questions, to remove our blinders that we have so comfortably worn,” Wisbey said. “Just as Francis confronted his old self and was no longer satisfied, so too, today, we are given the privilege to imagine a new future for ourselves beyond what we are today.”

“So, this morning, a simple question at the beginning of this new academic year -- how will you live your grand adventure?” asked Wisbey. “How will your life reveal, this year, your commitment to truly make a difference on this campus?  How will you prepare yourself for a life of service that, in 25 years, does not feel like drudgery but, rather, like joy?”

The convocation service included welcomes by Student Association of La Sierra University President Jason Allen Siu, La Sierra University Church Senior Pastor Chris Oberg and university Provost Steve Pawluk, scriptural readings by faculty, and performances by the university Chamber Singers and soloist Javier Gonzalez.

Several students commented on their hopes and plans for the coming year as they pursue their own adventures.

Pre-engineering major Ernesto Montes, a sophomore transfer student from Cerritos Community College, said he is looking forward to completing his studies and entering a career in aerospace. His friend and fellow college student Matthew Vaca of South El Monte, also a pre-engineering major, is aiming to work in mechanical engineering where he will have a variety of career options to pursue, he said.

Junior exercise science major Kristen Brummett and her friend, Afolake Akringba, a senior exercise science major are both looking forward to finishing their studies. Commented Brummett, “My career goal is to become a physical education teacher. I would also like to coach sports.”

Joe Richard, a freshman criminal justice major from Perris, said he is looking forward this year to “getting to know people, making friends, meeting teachers and playing sports.” He selected La Sierra because he liked its peaceful and friendly environment, he said.

Freshman human resources major and Lake Elsinore resident Steven Alfaro said he decided to enroll at La Sierra after visiting the school. “I came to campus and I really liked it,” he said. This year he looks forward to the university worships, taking classes, meeting new people, and “being able to reconnect with God.” 

To view a convocation photo album, visit https://www.facebook.com/LaSierraU.