Music department takes tour to Kansas

Wichita Adventist Christian Academy (WACA) and Liberal Seventh-day Adventist Church welcomed Campion Academy’s Koinonia, Orchestra and Jazz Band to perform at the school and participate in the church service this last Friday, April 26th, and Sabbath, April 27th. 

The students left on Friday driving almost 10 hours to Kansas. Unfortunately, the air conditioning system on the bus stopped working and it was a hot day, so they were relieved when they finally arrived at church and could rest and cool off. Mabel Cabandon, a member of Koinonia, shared, “We traveled for so long; it was hot, and we were all so sweaty. Everyone was so relieved and grateful to hear the church had showers! They were extremely welcoming and kind, even though we smelled really bad.”

In the afternoon, at WACA, Campion’s groups had some musical performances. Several Campion Academy students are from Kansas, so the experience was nostalgic. 

Janey Padilla-Reyes, member of Koinonia and Orchestra, expressed, “I am originally from Kansas, so going back to my hometown to sing in front of my parents for the first time in years made me really happy. Also the kids from WACA were so nice to us which really made me enjoy this trip.”

Before performing for the church service at Liberal SDA Church, Cecilia Simmons, music director led out in a Sabbath School discussion with the group to set their mindset for worship.  “Our music tour group had a lot of fun discussing the matter of pride at Sabbath School,” commented Lillian Resz, sophomore Koinonia member, “Being able to hear others' opinions on the difference between being confident and prideful made such a big impact on me, and I'm very grateful for Ms. Simmons’ reflection on this topic. This thought also came to my mind while singing and I really was able to reflect on the meaning of humility.”

Even with transportation difficulties, the group could see God’s leading. Simmons proclaimed, “‘This bus is on fire!’ Ok, it wasn’t actually on fire, it just felt like it at times. From a very warm bus to running out of gas, this year’s music tour was filled with unexpected moments.

On the way back the weather in Liberal was sunny and bright but the closer we got to Loveland the more the clouds rolled in and the temperatures dropped. Don’t worry though, it was a blessing in disguise. We ran out of gas but the Lord blessed us again. We stopped mere yards away from a gas station and were able to push the van to the pump in a matter of minutes. All in all we could see God’s hands over the entire trip, making everybody understand that God knows the best for all of us," Simmons concluded.

Julia Santiago, Student News Team

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