It’s the most wonderful time of the year — almost. There is no doubt that finals week makes students stressed, but finding ways to counteract that, can be difficult. Approximately 30 Grand View students found one solution at Winter Worship Night Thursday, December 8, from 7-8 p.m. in the Speed Lyceum.

Senior Theology student, Bailey Simpson, an intern for Grand View Student Ministries, was the mind behind Winter Worship Night as a way to help students de-stress before finals.

The work behind the event started in October. Simpson had worked closely with Student Ministries Director Alex Krumm to brainstorm what the event should look like.

“The one thing I would like to see happen is that students be able to come and take a night away from all of the stress of finals and just take a breath,” says Simpson.

Krumm and Simpson settled on worship music, a variety of people reading scripture, prayers, and a few Christmas-themed snacks.

Karina Johnson (left) and Brenda Phongphachone (right) were available throughout the event for students wanting prayers.

"Tonight was a beautiful time to pull me away from the distractions and stress of this world and remind me what is truly important: God." -Lauren Bailey

"It makes me relax and think about something else." -Darnell Largen

"Tonight was a great way to release built up stress and to relax before the end of a busy semester." -Ryan Scott

"It glorifies God to see the campus minitstries come together and worship him." -Eric Semjenow

Lauren Bailey and Ryan Scott lead worship through music.

"I think that there's a whole lot of wisdom in the idea that sometimes it's important to add things to your life when you're stressed to help to center you, to help to bring you some peace, in the midst of the craziness." -Alex Krumm

Pastor Russ Lackey ended the event with scripture and a prayer.