Spiritual Renewal Week Offers Sacred Space

Beth Guckenberger, Co-Executive Director of Back2Back Ministries, led Taylor University’s fall Spiritual Renewal this past week. 

Tying in with the overall chapel theme for the semester, “Wait on the Lord” based on Psalm 27:14, Guckenberger unpacked Psalm 27 over four sessions throughout the week, including chapel on Monday and Wednesday and two evening services. She wanted Spiritual Renewal to be a time where students realize and strengthen their faith.

“Faith isn't really something we feel,” Guckenberger said. “Sometimes we feel it, but we can't rely on feelings. Faith is something we trust for, we can't see, and we hope on. I'm hoping that faith becomes real to people beyond just their feelings. I want them to have this faith that they can stand on. And we're strengthening that foundation this week.”

Spiritual Renewal is intentionally timed to take place early in the semester, offering students a chance to listen and trust in the Lord’s plan as they settle into new routines. Chapel attendance is expected rather than mandatory, but Rediger Chapel/Auditorium is routinely full to capacity. 

“When you walk in the door, you know that everyone around you is there because they want to be,” said Guckenberger. “There's something really powerful about the community that gets built and helps you not feel alone.”

Guckenberger and her husband, Todd, live with their family in Cincinnati, Ohio, where they serve as Co-Executive Directors of Back2Back Ministries. They spent 15 years as missionaries in Monterrey, Mexico. Between biological, foster, and adopted children, they have raised 11 children, including a current Taylor student. She is the author of nine books including adult and children’s titles. She travels and speaks regularly at conferences, youth gatherings and church services.

Campus Ministries has a limited number of Guckenberger’s books available for purchase while supplies last.

"Wait On You," an original song by music professor Dr. Todd Syswerda, was inspired by the fall chapel theme.