Orange Week has come to a close, as has the Waynesburg University Campus Ministry’s Bible fundraiser. Throughout the week, a donation page was accepting donations to purchase new Bibles for certain Biblical Ministry Studies classes.

According to University Chaplin Josh Sumpter, these Bibles, which are the NIV Foundation Study Bibles,  will be gifted to students taking the BMS 105 and 106 classes, which are Introduction to the New Testament and Introduction to the Old Testament, respectively.

Sumpter, who teaches the BMS 105 class, explained the version they are purchasing is called the NIV Foundation Study Bible. He said, “We have found that these Bibles are really helpful and provide good content, obviously the Scriptures, but also study notes to help those students.”

 Sumpter said that these Bibles have notes about Biblical passages and study guides to go with them, which will make studying the Scriptures easier.

This is not the first time the Campus Ministry has hosted this fundraiser. Sumpter said that last year, the Ministry held the same donation and was able to purchase and give out 58 Bibles to students in the two classes. 

Sumpter explained that Orange Week provides an opportunity to give in a meaningful way that meets the needs of the students taking those classes. With these funds, Sumpter said the Ministry is intent on “…using the money to bless other students by getting the Scriptures into their hands.”

He explained that in addition to the students and faculty who gave for Orange Week, many alumni and local pastors contributed as well.

One of these contributors was Maura Fenske, the University’s coordinator of development and alumni relations. Fenske wrote in an email, “Personally, I feel it’s important to give back the programs which have not only positively impacted my life but have improved the lives of our students and campus community. Giving back financially, even in small increments, makes a big difference to our departments and teams.”

 Regarding the importance of the Campus Ministry, Fenske wrote, “I love Chaplain Sumpter’s dedication to the mission of the University and shepherding the campus community, specifically students, to live lives of purpose for the glory of God. I believe his program is a critical one on our campus and, more broadly, in today’s world.”

According to the Givebutter donation page posted by the Campus Ministry, they received $665 out of their $800 goal. Despite the fundraiser having closed, the page is still active and accepting donations.

Sumpter said any students who are looking for a Bible should stop by the Office for Campus Ministry on the first floor of the Stover Campus Center. This is the location of both Sumpter’s office and the Bibles which will be passed out.