Lolita Harper Students from Vanguard University took...

Lolita Harper

Students from Vanguard University took their devotion to the

streets Thursday as they participated in a walk of prayer, designed

to thank God for the university and to request his strength as it

grows.

About 200 students made their way down Fair Drive, up Newport

Boulevard and around the edge of campus while holding hands, praising

God and praying for the school and community.

The walk was part of Vanguard’s community day of prayer created to

kick off the spring semester. University officials said they

dedicated 24 hours to unite as a body and worship God’s wisdom.

The day began with chapel at 9:30 a.m. and students, staff and

faculty proceeded with the walk of prayer around the parameter of the

school. The walkers gathered after in the gym for a brief concluding

worship session, during which they sang and again thanked the Lord

for all his blessings.

University Provost and Vice President Max Rossi hosted the

occasion and offered his colleagues and students encouragement as

they continued in their academic and spiritual endeavors.

“God listens to us when we pray,” Rossi said. “ ... And we thank

him for his presence and wisdom ... Lord, we seek your faith on

behalf of our university.”

Audience members nodded their heads in agreement and some lifted

their hands toward the sky. Others held hands or sat in a secluded

space of the gym for an intimate devotion.

Senior Jeremy Jones said the inaugural event impressed him, saying

it demonstrated the unparalleled benevolence found on campus.

“This is the first time I have seen something like this,” Jones

said. “It is good to see and strikes awareness of how much staff and

everyone cares about the university. I am excited about the desire to

see it grow and seek God.”

Worship services were scheduled throughout the day and night, and

Needham Chapel was open the entire 24 hours. Students were encouraged

to sign up for prayer times in 5-, 10-, 15- and 30-minute increments

to create a solid day of prayer. A special session outside the chapel

was set to conclude the day of prayer this morning with communion.

Freshman Chanel Dunn said she looks forward to more days to gather

with her fellow students in praise. Her friend Christina Anguiano

said she would like to see the university pray for the nation and the

community, as well as its own campus. Both girls agreed the event

should continue and suggested it span an entire week.

“I think this is truly a blessing,” Dunn said. “People just don’t

know how big prayer is in our lives.”

* LOLITA HARPER covers Costa Mesa. She may be reached at (949)

574-4275 or by e-mail at lolita.harper@latimes.com.