Summer break is anything but quiet at Walla Walla University. Just because the school year is over doesn’t mean everyone leaves. Many students stay on campus to work and study in the intervening months between spring and fall quarters. The university offers many spiritual opportunities during the summer for these students.

The popular Friday night vespers program is carried over to the summer. Between 25 and 60 students attend the 8 p.m worship service in Conard Courtyard. Songs are sung and a short message is presented. For an extra summer perk, free snacks are provided each week as well. Students see vespers as a great opportunity to gather and connect with peers after a busy week of working and studying. “It’s always fun to see the students who show up, and people remember that there are more people here for the summer then they thought,” says assistant chaplain Katie Palumbo.

Students are always welcome to attend the University Church and accompanying Sabbath School programs. During the summer, church services are simplified from a first and second service to a single 10:45 a.m. service.

The Chaplain's Office is open and staffed throughout the summer. Chaplains continue to be available for prayer, Bible study, and discussion as well. If any student wants to spearhead a new worship experience they are welcome to visit the chaplains office to discuss their ideas. “Worshiping together and being available to students is equally important during the school year as it is in the summer,” says Palumbo. “The spiritual focus and Christ-centered atmosphere are essential parts to what Walla Walla University is and believes in.”

Posted August 19, 2016