A 16-page Living Grace Virtual Luncheon booklet brought the look and feel of the biannual event to nearly 1,000 women when they received it in the mail earlier this month.
Co-authored by Director for Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Tamara Ferry and Senior Director of Advancement Services Michele Buss, the booklet encouraged women to reach out to their friends and included a campus update on the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center that is home to the Batterman School of Business, as well as the teacher of the visually impaired program that began in January, the only one of its kind at a Wisconsin college or university. The ways that professors across a majority of Concordia’s six schools have stepped up to provide needed medical supplies and provide their expertise during this pandemic were also among the campus updates.
“While we cannot gather physically, we can still be together in our hearts,” said Ferry, who emcees the luncheons. “This pandemic can’t keep us down, and while nothing can take the place of our luncheons, we are thinking about you, praying for you and cannot wait to see you again.” She also highlighted a Return Plan for Students, Faculty and Staff in August, a Recovery Plan, and a Re-Imagination Plan for Academic and Administrative Operations in her Welcome.
Recipes for a Simply Elegant Lunch that would have been served – an avocado Greek yogurt chicken salad, a spritzer with edible petals, salad skewers, and a creamy dessert duet – were provided for individuals to make when they believe it is safe to have friends over to their home. Women were also able to offer prayer petitions, provide a financial gift, and enter a drawing for complimentary tickets to the next luncheon on campus.
President Dr. Patrick T. Ferry noted in his written message that in the midst of these uncertain times that have many people struggling, “at Concordia University, we stand on the simple motto: Christ in all things. We love people. We cherish life. We value dignity. We embrace differences. The divine Love that claims us in Christ compels us to act justly, love mercy, walk humbly, and, more than ever, to love our neighbors.”
Buss’ inspiring featured message, Finding Peace in Turbulent Times, reminded everyone how easily earthly security can give way, but that God is our refuge and our strength. “On our own, we are vulnerable and helpless. But in Christ, we have a way through the troubles and trials of this life.”
Living Grace was founded 25 years ago at Concordia University Wisconsin to provide Christian growth and fellowship opportunities for women and support them in their spiritual walk. Events are held on Concordia’s 200-acre campus each fall and summer.
—
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.