Biola UniversitySeeking to celebrate the multiethnic nature of the church, Biola University hosted the 14th annual Student Congress on Racial Reconciliation (SCORR) at Biola University, Feb. 26-27, 2010. Inspired by Ephesians 2:15, the conference - themed One New Humanity - conveyed the importance for church unity among all nations, tribes, and tongues.
“We are trying to steer people into a conversation about kingdom diversity. The practical implication of this is that we have to relate to one another,” said Director of Student Congress on Racial Reconciliation, Glen Kinoshita.
Kinoshita believes the church should display a reconciled people made up of different backgrounds.
“The gospel of Jesus Christ reconciles and unites people across ethnicity, cultures, socioeconomic, gender, and generational differences,” Kinoshita said.
Approximately 300 to 400 students and faculty from different colleges were given the opportunity to experience other cultures through workshops wrestling with the meaning of reconciliation, the event Worship Mosaic featuring the Point Loma Nazarene’s Gospel Choir, and a live drama titled New Faces of America. The drama told stories of individuals living with different backgrounds in America through incorporating video presentations with a live performer.
Ten workshops were offered during the two-day event taught by Biola staff, students, local ministers, and community organizers. Workshops focused on biblical foundations for understanding racial reconciliation, student’s voices in reconciliation, and the basics of reconciliation. The conference ended with the popular Taiko Fest on Saturday night.
Alumna Liana Sims (09’) and senior Tabitha Verdick led a workshop giving their perspective on a student’s place in institutional growth. Sims and Verdick shared several ways they have made their voices heard and encouraged students to help their institution move forward in growth and change.
Among the schools represented were George Fox University in Ore., Seattle Pacific University in Wash., Moody Bible Institute in Ill., and Calif. schools Fresno Pacific University, Point Loma Nazarene, and Azusa Pacific University.
“We saw a greater variety of schools represented and within that variety, more students from each school attended this year,” said Elizabeth Choi of Biola’s Multi-Ethnic Programs.
SCORR conference is a sought-out event for the Biola community that promotes open dialogue, unity in the body of Christ and celebrates diversity.
“Ultimately, all of this is a celebration,” Kinoshita added. “This brings life and happiness to what the Lord has created.”
Watch clips from “Cross Colors” on The Chimes Online.
Written by George Garcia, Media Relations Intern. Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator, can be reached at 562.777.4061 or through email at jenna dot l dot bartlo at biola dot edu.