A Quiet Act of Purpose
Just two days before MidAmerica Nazarene University dedicated its new Copeland Athletic Complex, members of MNU’s Association of Student-Athletes (ASA) gathered for a unique project. Beneath the visitors’ bleachers at the new football stadium, they wrote Bible verses—messages of love, perseverance, and purpose—to bless those who would one day fill the stands.
The idea came from Lakin Essex, a junior business psychology major and MNU track and field athlete. Essex, whose parents Matt (’02) and Mindy (Urie ’03) Essex are both MNU alumni, serves as president of the ASA and as MNU’s representative to the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
Student-athletes writing Bible verses on bleachers. Photo courtesy of MNU student Kennedy Krotzinger
“I wanted to prepare the stadium for everything to come,” Lakin said. “I hoped our student-athletes could see their physical impact on campus, even in small ways. My prayer was that God would use us and the verses to spread the good news, change hearts, and further His kingdom.”
Faith in Action
On the evening of October 1, 2025, about 40 student-athletes and coaches gathered at the stadium. The group had spent the day helping move the new bleachers into place with assistance from the baseball team. As the sun set, worship music drifted through the newly installed speakers—the first time they were used.
“It was a really serene, peaceful time,” said Bridget Barney, associate director of athletics and ASA advisor. “You could feel God’s presence there. Everyone brought their Bibles, found their favorite verses, and wrote them underneath or behind the seats. Then we circled up and prayed over the complex.”
Photo courtesy of MNU alumnus Steve Elstrom (’94, MBA ’00)
Some of the verses now hidden beneath the bleachers include John 13:34, “Love one another,” and Colossians 3:23, “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.”
A Culture That Honors the Lord
Barney said the ASA—a group of two representatives from each athletic team—wanted to make spiritual impact their focus this year. “This group has a heart for developing a culture that honors the Lord,” she said. “They didn’t want just to plan events; they wanted to minister to our MNU community.”
Before school started, the group helped prepare the sand volleyball courts for Welcome Week, spending hours raking and cleaning the area so incoming students could enjoy the event. The bleacher project, however, marked their first collective act of campus ministry this semester.
More Than Words
When the writing was done, Lakin led students in a prayer time over the complex. Several students prayed for the use of the facility and the people who would be impacted by it. “It was a good, unique experience,” Lakin said. “I hope that someday someone reads a verse off the bleachers and God uses that moment to encourage or convict that person for their good.”
Students in prayer. Photo courtesy of MNU student Kennedy Krotzinger
Though most stadium visitors may never see the hidden verses, Barney believes their presence will have a lasting impact.
“They’re literally written into the foundation of that place,” she said. “It’s a beautiful symbol of what our student-athletes stand for—faith, service, and purpose.”
Leadership Beyond the Field
In addition to serving as president of MNU’s Association of Student-Athletes, Lakin Essex represents the university and the Heart of America Athletic Conference on the NAIA’s National Association of Student-Athletes.
It’s a first for MNU—no student-athlete from the university has ever held this position. Lakin attends national meetings, collaborates with student-athletes from across the country, and provides feedback to the NAIA on issues affecting student-athlete welfare, character development, and spiritual growth.
As ASA President, Lakin placed the MNU traditional “Trust God” brick, the last brick put in place in the Copeland Athletic Complex facility.
“It’s been such an honor,” Lakin said. “Working with other like-minded student-athletes is really rewarding. I’ve learned so much about how faith and leadership can shape athletics on a bigger stage.”
