A program that began as an experiment under the leadership of the director of religious activities on the campus of Columbia Union College in Washington, D.C., emerged as one of the successful campus programs. It received unusual acceptance from both faculty and students. The program entitled "Dimension" was a regular Friday evening feature following the Missionary Volunteer meeting. For one hour students gathered in the recreation hall of the women's dormitory where, with their "dates," they could share the remaining portion of the evening in an informal, relaxed atmosphere.
The program began with the singing of evangelistic songs and hymns of experience. It was totally unrehearsed. Students volunteered to bring their musical instruments. Some sang their favorite hymns as they felt impressed. There was an atmosphere of informality that appealed to all.
Following the song period those in attendance discussed in open forum or round table some subject of mutual interest to the student family. The topic may have arisen because of some problem that came up on campus or from a discussion that developed in a classroom. It may have revolved around some national or international development as understood in the light of Seventh-day Adventist theology or prophetic understanding. The standards of the church also were explored, with a free exchange of ideas regarding their practical application in the light of modern times.
The keen interest of the students in this type of program was indicated by a steadily growing attendance. Some evenings the attendance was too large to really do effective discussion. This type of informal gathering on a purely voluntary basis opened the way not only for informative but also inspirational discussions, which proved to be a blessing to those in attendance.
The scope of the questions, the type of themes chosen by the students, was a most encouraging indication of the depth of spiritual thought and concern among the student family. Other colleges have similar programs patterned after the same general format.
Some churches in the area have promoted similar programs for the general membership of the church and have met with the same success. We believe this is an indication that our people welcome the opportunity to dig deep into the things of God. Sharing together the open Bible in the study and restudy of great themes of our faith is an Adventist tradition worthy of perpetuation.
