In the early days of February, snow continued to pack Interstate 90’s Snoqualmie Pass, Wash., as several cars with Walla Walla University (WWU) students journeyed from College Place, Wash., to Seattle to experience the One Project 2014 — a meeting of more than 700 believers to discuss together the supremacy of Jesus in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Hosted in the Grand Ballroom of the 40-story Westin Hotel in downtown Seattle, WWU students joined other Adventist students, teachers, pastors, chaplains and church members to focus on this year’s theme, “Present Truth,” established to keep Jesus Christ as constant focus and foundation in personal lives and especially in the church. The second theme of the One Project centered on the concept of “My Dream for the Church.”
Originally founded as an independent ministry by a small group of pastors, the event is now an official ministry of Walla Walla and Andrews universities.
Brooke Spickelmier, a WWU theology student, feels blessed to have attended the One Project. “[It] was an astounding time for me and helped further me in understanding the Lord’s calling in my life to serve Him and others in chaplaincy,” she says. “Best of all, Jesus was glorified, and my heart rejoices when I reflect on the determination of Christ’s body being truly involved in hastening the Second Coming of Christ.”
The One Project is a 48-hour gathering, this year featuring 14 different authors, pastors and speakers who presented short messages called Reflections. Nearly 80 tables seating nine people each filled the Grand Ballroom. A 20-minute discussion period followed each Reflection. This was called Recalibration, beginning with a discussion question presented to the groups, sparking conversations at each table led by each table’s group facilitator. Another opportunity for sharing thoughts was the Response time, during which anyone could speak in front to share their dream for the church.
Faith Hoyt, a WWU student studying communication, appreciated the chance to connect with fellow believers. “The One Project was an inspiration to me,” she says. “The time I spent there was not only beneficial to my spiritual life, but it was also an excellent way to stay connected with my church.”
The gathering was also an empowering experience for theology student Stephen Farr, who says it will have a positive effect on his ministry. “It is important to attend events like this and take the time to listen to each other about our hurts, our hopes and our dreams,” he says.
Paddy McCoy, WWU chaplain, prays with a group from WWU.
Brooke Spickelmier, WWU theology student, speaks during the One Project in Seattle.
Timothy Oliver participates in the discussion during the One Project.
