Inviting God into the Classroom
KEENE, TEX. – Imagine a classroom of young adults, quietly acknowledging a shared purpose, collectively stepping into a space of focus and trust. As the classroom settles into a hush, pens click, chairs shift, students glance around. Then comes the pause. A professor bows their head, inviting God into the space. What follows is more than a prayer; it’s a moment that shapes the day, the learning and the hearts of those present.
“Prayer at the start of classes at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) provides an opportunity to set the tone for the class in keeping with our belief that true education proceeds from a proper understanding of God and our relationship with Him,” said Daryl Thomas, chair of computer science. “I hope that beginning class with prayer impacts students’ mindsets by strengthening our sense of community and uniting us in working toward our divinely appointed goals.”
Across campus, Kerrie Kimbrow, AdventHealth endowed chair of nursing, echoed this sentiment. “Prayer changes everything,” she said. “I believe faculty and students are drawn to the source of all wisdom through prayer. ‘If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God,’ (James 1:5). Students observing a teacher’s genuine connection with God may recognize there is something they want to experience for themselves, just like the disciples did. Praying with and for my students is the most important part of my work. It’s what gives me the greatest joy.”
Students, too, feel the difference. Andrea Richards, a senior nursing student, reflects, “Prayer time really feels like a moment to focus on what is truly important in order to prepare to learn. I’ve seen an improvement in my grades, as I came from a college where prayer was not implemented. But more than that, it’s helped me develop a habit of prayer in my daily life. It shows how much professors care about us, not just our education, but our well-being. I can’t imagine starting a class any other way.”
Even amidst challenging coursework or exams, the practice anchors the classroom. William Smith, vice president for academics, shares, “I’m reminded of Daniel, who prayed even when it meant facing the lions’ den. A classroom isn’t the lions’ den, but students face real challenges every day. Beginning class with prayer invites God into that space, reminding students that education isn’t just about gaining knowledge but about transformation, and that they never face their challenges alone.”
These brief, intentional moments of prayer woven into daily learning remind students that education is not only intellectual but spiritual. In these pauses, resilience grows, community forms and hearts are centered. At SWAU, prayer starts everything.
By Coby Federowski
Digital Marketing Manager
