Katie Shannon/ TRUMPET

Katie Shannon/ TRUMPET

Their hope for Vision was to create a group that meets with the intent of providing a less structured alternative to Eucharist or midweek chapels. Vision meets twice a month in the choir room but will meet the next two weeks in a row.

The name Vision started when the students had a "vision" for an event that would draw students together in an informal place for those students who are intimidated by the formal church setting.

"We had a vision of seeing something like this happen, and the name just stuck," said VanCleave.

The first Vision was held for first year students in the Lair before all of the returning students moved in.

"It was packed," said Neve.

The group is rooted in the words of 1 Corinthians 13:12, which reads, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known."

"God knows us better than anybody else and, he loves us more than anyone else, said VanCleave, "and that is what we wanted to get across to others."

Vision is led by the Vision leadership team, which is made up of 10-12 students, who in turn are responsible for a particular aspect of Vision.

The music team is led by seniors Neve, Heather Kuennen, and Aaron Strumpel, as well as juniors Matt Thede and Derek Pine, and sophomore Ryan Houts. The skit team is led by seniors Jennifer Noyes and Shane Potratz, and the prayer team is led by sophomore Sonia Hodges and senior Michael Jorgensen. Junior Wendy Cox and Sophomore Tim Thomson are responsible for bring in the speakers for each Vision. Junior Jonie Burrier works on PR for Vision and VanCleave and senior Graham Schardt led the relational team.

"We want people to come and see what it's about and experience it for themselves," said Burrier.

On off-weeks of Vision, the team meets and plans for the upcoming gathering. They come up with a theme based on what is going on in students' lives and build upon that.

The theme of this week's Vision is "Plug In." According to Neve, the songs and skits will be based on the idea that we must plug in to Jesus and see all the power that is available to us through Him.

Also, at this time in the year, when everyone is feeling overwhelmed with school and everything else, Neve said we have to know that it's God who will get us through it all.

Neve said Vision is not a numbers game. Rather, they want to provide an open and comfortable place for people to praise and worship.

Since Eucharist, midweek chapels, and Sunday morning worship are already provided for students, VanCleave felt this was something totally different for students, since it doesn't involve all the traditional elements of a service, such as Communion.

"Vision is just a chance for students to meet each other, and we encourage people to come," said VanCleave.

"It's definitely an uplifting service, and it's a great time to get filled up with energy. It's also a great time for fellowship, great songs, and singing," said senior Britta Monson, who is one of many students who attend Vision.

"A few weeks ago, we were so loud that people in SIs in Becker Hall could hear us singing. That's how much energy there is at Vision," said Monson.

Members of the Vision leadership team said they were excited to hear about the outreach Vision was accomplishing on campus, since they want to draw people in and do their best to reach out. Also, while music is a part of the service, there is "no talent required," as one member pointed out.

When asked why a student should go to Vision, group members, "If you are curious about God or Christianity, this is the place for you. If you have questions, or if you need a study break, it is a great place to bond with other people."

"Even if you just need a good laugh, we can help you. There are no strings attached, no obligations. We look forward to meeting you," said leadership team members.

"Vision is a time where we can recharge with other people, and have a wild service. We focus on issues that really matter in our everyday lives," said Jake Hesse, a frequent Vision participant.