Environmental Literature I

This week, we had Drew and Nancy Ward with us for Environmental Literature I. The students explored what makes a piece of writing "environmental literature" while reading and discussing short stories and poems by authors like Wendell Berry, Aldo Leopold, and Mary Oliver.

We celebrated Briana's (Westmont) birthday on Monday.

On Monday night, we had a special belated birthday "art gallery opening" party. Everyone was assigned a student or staff member to represent in a piece of art of their choosing. The results covered the board from paintings to poetry. Regan's (Dordt) chicken poo sculpture of Emma (Messiah) engaged not only the sense of sight, but the sense of smell. Katie (Dordt) actually became Brian (staff) herself, facial hair and all. The art was accompanied by some fancy cheeses and sparkling grape juice. Everyone dressed in formal attire made it a classy evening. Happy birthday Bri!

Just some of the highlights from Briana's (Westmont) birthday party.

On Wednesday, a group of students prepared a musical performance for the patients at the hospital and rest home. They sang hymns, Edelweiss, and even One Direction's "That What Makes You Beautiful" while Regan (Dordt) accompanied on guitar and Rachel (Bethel) on the violin. The audience was great and really appreciated us coming to play for them.

Katie (Dordt), Megan (Gordon), Regan (Dordt), Kelsey (Messiah), Becca (Gordon),
and Rachel (Bethel) performing for the patients at the hospital.

Friday evening, instead of lecture, we had a special worship service organized by the students. The service focused in on the theme of awakening. They chose beautiful songs and scripture to share pertaining to the theme. Megan (Gordon) recited a poem beside the fire, and we were invited to pray while transferring soil from one pot to another that we'll be planting a seed in. It was a nice way to end the week of Environmental Literature.

Top: Rachel (Bethel), Joy (Hope), and Richelle (Messiah) led us in worship during the student-led worship service.
Bottom: Megan (Gordon) recited a poem she memorized as part of the service.