Every Thursday evening, a sacred space unfolds at SNU–a space where students step forward in vulnerability and faith, sharing the raw and redemptive ways God is moving in their lives. Kerygma and Kingdom Come, student-led services, have become more than just another gathering–they are moments of deep reflection, surrender, and communal faith.
Kerygma provides pastoral ministry students with the opportunity to preach, while Kingdom Come opens the floor for any student to share their testimony. According to Allie Miller, Student Lead Chaplain, these services are designed to cultivate a campus community centered on worship and vulnerability. “We hope students take away whatever they need,” Miller shares. “A lot of times, we walk into services ready to consume and receive. While that is good, sometimes we need to surrender something to God. Through testimonies, we often feel seen, convicted, and called. My hope is that Thursday nights become a space that unites us, drawing us deeper into our relationships with God and each other.”
For many students, these nights have been defining moments in their faith journey. Senior Alayna Bryson embodied the spirit of openness and surrender when she stood before her peers to share her testimony. “I shared my struggles, addictions, and hurts–how God has redeemed me and made me a new creation,” Bryson reflects. “I wanted to be as authentic as possible, even though it was scary. My story is His; I am only a vessel of His kingdom.
Her message resonated deeply. Students, some she had never spoken to before, approached her afterward in tears, thanking Bryson for honesty in sharing. Others expressed how they had similar struggles and found encouragement in knowing they were not alone.
Despite the moving response, Bryson admitted to wrestling with doubt beforehand. She prayed over the chapel space, over empty chairs, wondering if her words would be enough. However, in that moment, God met her and those listening, proving once more that He works through our willingness to step forward in faith.
Bryson’s hope remains simple yet profound: “I want others to know that our woundedness is never too big for the grace of God. He is not surprised by our struggles. When we bring our fear and shame to Him, they lose their power over us. There is freedom in surrender.”
These are the moments that define Kerygma and Kingdom Come. They are not just services or stories–they are encounters with our living God. As students continue to step forward, lifting voices in honesty and faith, the message remains clear: God is still speaking. He is still moving, and He is not done with us yet.
Photo By: José Ramos