Click here to see a photo gallery from the Taking the Next Step celebration.

On October 2, in the shadow of the George K. Brushaber Commons--still under construction--nearly 170 people who have contributed significantly to Bethel's growth gathered to celebrate. President Jay Barnes and Bethel trustees hosted donors to honor the conclusion of the successful Taking the Next Step campaign. They saw, some for the first time, the fruition of their generous support as the sun set and spotlights lit up the new commons.

"We are here to celebrate our mission and you who have served Bethel with great distinction," Barnes told donors. "You have led the people in this campaign in a way that gives honor to the Lord."

New Vice President of Student Life Edee Schulze thanked donors for what their gifts will provide students--a place to hang out, to study, and develop relationships, but also increased endowment, program initiatives and expansion of the seminary campus in San Diego. For the audience, Schulze interviewed junior biology major Andrew Evelsizer and senior elementary education major Nikki Abramson, asking their thoughts on the new buildings scheduled to open in March 2009.

"They are going to give us a place to do life together--students and professors," said Abramson. "It will provide better opportunities to be mentored and to support each other." And speaking directly to the donors in front of her, she said: "On behalf of all Bethel students, we are just so thankful for all your time, money and support."

Campaign Chair David Monson recognized the steering committee, staff, volunteers, donors and most importantly the Holy Spirit. Referencing the campaign's verse, Galations 5:25: "If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit," Monson said the campaign's success was solely dependent on the leadership of the Holy Spirit and His working in donors' hearts. Throughout the campaign 233 donors made commitments of $50,000 or more--32 in excess of $1 million. Recently retired President Emeritus George Brushaber thanked, in particular, David and Mary Jo Monson and David and Mary Ann Price for their generosity and decades of commitment, noting that thousands of others followed their lead in making commitments to the campaign.

As the evening concluded, Board of Trustee Member Dan Lindh announced that Bethel trustees had named perhaps the most significant part of Brushaber Commons: The David and Mary Jo Monson Dining Center.

"We are selective about what names get attached to significant facilities. We want to honor leadership, stewardship, and faithfulness," said Lindh. "We believe David and Mary Jo beautifully represent these things. Now, future generations of students will have a reminder of those upon whose shoulders they stand."