“Launch Out into the Deep” – Semester Theme
Christian Service University College as a centre for Higher learning aims at ‘promoting knowledge for the training of men and women in Christian values and principles, academic and professional excellence for the transformation of society’. In this vein, the institution, since its establishment has sandwiched its training with the teachings of Christ in its day to day endeavours under the office of the Chaplaincy. Such activities and programmes include organizing weekly staff fellowship and church service, and most importantly, introducing semester-based bible themes that aid both students and staff to embark on their daily mandates. In accordance with that, the theme for the second semester of the 2020/2021 academic year is based on Jesus’ calling of the first disciples to follow him, titled, Launch Out into the Deep (Luke5:1-5).
The Foundational Sermon
‘Peter had had a very disappointing day having caught nothing despite an all-night session of fishing. As he mended his net, the last thing he wanted to hear was a stranger asking to use his boat. Not only that, the stranger (Jesus) further asked that Peter put out a little while from the shore. In spite of this, Peter allowed Jesus to use his boat. After using the boat Jesus asked Peter again “Put out into the deep and let down the nets for a catch.” Despite the seeming uselessness of such a command, Peter paddled further into deep waters and let down the net. The result was the miraculous catch of fish. Later, Jesus asked Peter and his companions to follow Him.’
The Exhortation
The Chaplain for the University College, Reverend Anthony Boateng-Agyenim enlightens us to note that ‘we cannot catch big fish if we just stay in shallow waters. In the same way, we cannot experience God’s greater blessings unless we launch deep in obedience to His words.’ He further encourages the entire University community to faithfully avail themselves to God, trust his words, make sacrifices in service to God and mankind and ultimately, experience the supernatural powers of God. The Chaplaincy Unit continues to address the spiritual needs of its patrons at large, and more so, thrive on maintaining an environment that promotes their spiritual growth and Christian values.
