October Monthly Reflection

October 15, 2010

Homecoming would not be complete without the ‘Shen Bloc.’ As the brave men of Shenawana paraded into the soccer stands last Saturday with their outlandish costumes and self-styled noise makers, they turned all heads, including my own. Whatever happens at the game, the Shen Bloc cheering section ensures that everyone will have a good time. After a particularly exuberant cheer, a nearby spectator looked at me and asked how I felt about the Shen Bloc. I think she was surprised at my answer.

"I think they are great," I responded without hesitation. "I'd rather have them doing this than a thousand other things they might be doing this afternoon." That is true. In fact, as I reflected further, I think I might have been even more pronounced in my affirmation of this deeply embedded, though relatively new, Houghton tradition.

The Shen Bloc embodies several of the features of Houghton's educational environment in powerful ways, features that help to account for the transforming impact of this learning community. Let me be specific.

First, Shen Bloc's commitment to supply school spirit at the soccer games is a student-initiated endeavor. Students at Houghton are invited to assume responsibility in shaping their own environment and culture, whether it is through input on campus facilities projects, sitting on major committees, or forming special interest groups. (Over 40 student clubs pursue everything from Global Christian outreach, to philosophical discussion, to liturgical dance. This does not even include the many Bible studies and prayer groups or intercollegiate athletics where students are also able to develop their leadership potential.)

Second, Shen Bloc is open to all residents of Shenawana. It speaks of the egalitarian, non-elitist and hospitable nature of student culture. Come as you are – and see what you might become.

Third, it manifests the exuberance, energy, and earnestness with which Houghton students approach all that they do – their worship, their study, their relationships and their service.

Fourth, Shen Bloc illustrates the seamless whole and is complementary of the Houghton learning environment. The same spirit of residential community that draws these men to the soccer field also draws them into Bible studies and accountability groups. Furthermore, some of the leaders of Shen Bloc are also leaders of student government and participants in academic honors programs.

Fifth, Shen Bloc exhibits the creativity of our students that shows itself not only in the boldness of their costumes at the games, but also in the boldness of their commitment to Biblical justice, and in the boldness of their efforts to solve the issue of renewable energy in their Science Honors classes.

Finally, Shen Bloc gloriously illustrates the balance of individuality and unity that creates and is continually re-created in a healthy community – whether it is the Houghton community or the Body of Christ. Rather than squelch individuality, the healthy community enhances and empowers the contribution of each person for the greater effectiveness and liveliness of the whole.

Thank you, brave men of Shenawana, for boldly showing us the gift and power of this place.