By Easton DeMilia / Staff Writer

The Bridge, a Collegiate Ministry at Missouri Valley College, hosted a sermon followed by a pickleball game. 

The weekly services on Thursday nights draw a decent crowd, during which testimonies, sermons, projects and mission trips are presented to the students. 

The Bridge was established six years ago at Valley’s campus and continues to grow every year. This allows students to draw near to God and grow their walk with Christ.

Leadership plays a key role in ensuring each week’s message connects with students.

“Whenever we have a message, we talk over the message and pray over the message,” Hugo Lorenzo, a group leader, said. 

Lorenzo has been involved with the Bridge for two years and said he values the connection within the group.

“We have a great team that is always willing to help one another,” Lorenzo said. “I love the fact that we are all believers and we all understand each other. It is not just a team but also a family.” 

Campus Chaplain Paul List has been giving messages for the Bridge for six years on campus and enjoys working with the student body. 

“College students are sponges,” List said. “It is such a blessing to be a part of people that are looking for a community of faith by helping and disciplining and to become leaders of bible studies.”

His messages have been minimized over the years and have allowed the students to take control. 

“We encourage, equip and train students to bring the messages,” List said. “We have group leaders that do the preaching, and it is a blessing.” 

The Bridge hosts special events for students on a monthly basis. In the past, they have hosted sand volleyball, dodgeball, kickball and ultimate frisbee. 

“It is a way to have fun and connect deeper with the students,” List said.

The experience of college can be a complicated time for many students, and Marita Avilez, a Campus Missionary, embraces her role in the students’ lives. 

“When I was in college, it was a big time growing and learning in my life spiritually,” Avilez said.  “I want to give back to other students because I know they are asking a lot of the same questions.”  

Avilez has worked with the Bridge for six years and continues to support students throughout their college experience.

“Knowing about God and the Bible answers a lot of those questions and gives us purpose and hope,” Avilez said. “I have a passion for college kids and want to help them in that time of life, leaning on faith will bring students hope and confidence in their lives.” 

After a discussion of Psalm 34 led by freshman Aydan Ranzie, students moved to the courts for pickleball.

While many students are competitive, the game provided a fun way to end the night.

Robert Albert, a junior at Missouri Valley, attended his first Bridge event.

“I had a great time playing pickleball and doing it with people that share the same beliefs and same goals in life as me,” Albert said. 

A combination of the message and enjoyable times has Albert looking forward to next Thursday. 

“It was a great experience, and I look forward to the future of going to the Bridge and growing my faith,” Albert said.