You might have noticed that Covenant has hosted three large-scale events this semester alone: the Southeast Regional Conference On Christianity and Literature (we all remember the lovely “hobbit” Malcolm Guite), the Worship Leader Summit, and the National Homeschool Soccer Championship Kickoff. But why has Covenant suddenly become so busy this semester? And why do we have to keep moving our cars into the far darkness of Shadowlands on regular weekdays?
These events are opportunities for Covenant to make itself known and exercise our hospitality towards others. We are a small college, and getting our name out there is vital for the continued success and growth of the school. This is also an opportunity to show how we follow through on our school motto and make “Christ Preeminent” in everything we do, even in hosting.
The National Homeschool Championships Kickoff was an amazing event to have here on campus because of the different dynamics of the group and the number of high school students that were on campus, 1100 students! The Championships have been held in Chattanooga for several years, and when Covenant offered the campus as a venue for the kickoff, they accepted. At the kickoff, the admissions office had the opportunity to inform high school students and their families of the community here at Covenant and get the word out about our soccer teams. This was an amazing opportunity to bring in soccer players as well as remind current students that there are people and a world outside of our bubble on the mountain.
Bryonie Moon, assistant director of Admissions, states that these events are opportunities that admissions strive to make happen. They are a chance to show Covenant off and to make connections with people from all over and from all different backgrounds. She said that “having Covenant be present in that space is a big opportunity for us because a lot of these families don't know what the PCA is; they've never heard of it.” In allowing visitors into our space, we provide a picture of the hospitable, Christ-like community that makes Covenant College different from other schools (plus the fact we are on top of a mountain).
Mainly, these events are an opportunity for hospitality and continuing the legacy of Covenant. Alli Tye ’26, a student ambassador, wanted to remind students that “Covenant is a legacy beyond ourselves.” It may be a hassle to move your car on a random Thursday afternoon to the back corners of Shadowlands. But, it is an opportunity to show our hospitality, community and merit as a school to others outside our circle and to bring others into our Covenant experience.