Chapter 2 : Reflections and Dreams

JJ stepped into his cozy dorm room, dropping his backpack onto the floor. He flopped onto the bed, gazing up at the ceiling. Maya's warm smile lingered in his mind.

As they parted ways, Maya's hand waved goodbye, her eyes sparkling with genuine friendship. JJ's heart swelled, feeling seen and appreciated.

He began unpacking, his thoughts drifting back to their conversations. Maya's compassion, Rachel's theological insights and Alex's infectious enthusiasm made him feel welcomed.

JJ pulled out his journal, scribbling down thoughts:

"Today felt like a breath of fresh air. Maya's kindness, Preacher Leandro's wisdom... maybe Fundamental is where I'm meant to be."

His gaze wandered to the window, watching sunset hues dance across the sky. Memories of his father surfaced, followed by prayers for guidance.

With renewed determination, JJ wrote:

"Lord, use me here. Help me deepen my faith, serve others and spread Your love."

Maya closed the door behind her, entering Rachel's dorm room. "Hey, girl! I'm so excited about JJ."

Rachel looked up from her Bible study notes. "What's the scoop?"

Maya plopped onto the bed. "We clicked instantly! His testimony, passion for ministry... I think he's special."

Just then, a knock interrupted their conversation. Rachel called out, "Come in!"

The door swung open, revealing Tiffany, Student Council Vice-President. Her bright smile and stylish hijab radiated confidence.

"Hey, ladies! What's buzzing?" Tiffany asked, eyeing Maya's enthusiastic expression.

Maya filled her in. "We were discussing JJ, the new student. Have you met him?"

Tiffany's eyes sparkled. "Not yet, but I've heard great things. Preacher Leandro thinks he's leadership material."

Rachel nodded. "Maya's already taken him under her wing."

Maya laughed. "Someone's got to show him the ropes!"

Tiffany leaned against the doorframe. "We should invite JJ to our Student Council meeting. His fresh perspective could benefit our ministry initiatives."

Maya's eyes lit up. "Perfect! I'll extend the invitation."

Rachel smiled. "Looks like JJ's already making waves."

Preacher Leandro leaned back in his office chair, surveying the year's program outline. Ptr. Patel, Fundamental Bible College's Academic Dean, nodded thoughtfully.

"Thirty students, Lord willing, will be empowered to spread Your Word," Preacher Leandro said.

Mr. Cito scanned the breakdown:

1. *First-year (10)*: Fresh faces, eager to learn
2. *Second-year (8)*: Growing in faith, discovering callings
3. *Third-year (7)*: Refining passions, honing skills
4. *Fourth-year (5)*: Emerging leaders, ready to impact

Just then, Dean Ernelito Oakwood knocked and entered.

"Brothers, I trust our discussions align with God's will?" Dean Oakwood asked.

Preacher Leandro smiled. "We're envisioning expanded outreaches, church planting initiatives and enhanced discipleship programs."

Mr. Cito added, "Our students will engage in:

1. Community service projects
2. Evangelism training
3. Mentorship programs
4. Mission trips"

Dean Oakwood nodded. "I've invited Pastor Aliling from New Life Baptist Church to share insights on effective church planting."

Preacher Leandro's eyes sparkled. "Perfect! Our students will benefit greatly."

The Fundamental Bible College auditorium buzzed with excitement as students settled in. Preacher Leandro welcomed everyone.

"Beloved students, faculty, and staff, let us commit this academic year to our Lord Jesus Christ."

Dean Oakwood took the podium, his voice filled with conviction.

"Students, as ambassadors of Christ, uphold Biblical values: humility, integrity, and compassion. Your character will shape your ministry."

Ptr.. Cito outlined the college's rules and expectations, emphasizing:

1. *Modest attire*: Reflecting Christian values.
2. *Respectful relationships*: No public displays of affection.
3. *Academic integrity*: Honesty and originality.
4. *Spiritual discipline*: Regular prayer and Bible study.
5. *Community service*: Serving others.

Preacher Leandro presented the faculty:

*Female Faculty*

1. *Ms. Glenda Patel* (Biblical Counseling): Ptr. Cito's sister, with 10+ years of experience.
2. *Ms. Agnes Noble* (Theology): Renowned author, mid-30s.
3. *Ms. Nica Elven* (Evangelism): Passionate evangelist, mid-20s.
4. *Ms. Vivian Warrior* (Christian Education): Seasoned educator, mid-30s.

*Male Faculty*

1. *Ptr. Ernelito Oakwood* (Church Planting): Dean and seasoned pastor.
2. *Ptr. Cito Patel* (Biblical Studies): Academic Dean.
3. *Preacher Leandro* (Worship and Music): College President.

Preacher Leandro concluded, "Let us pursue spiritual growth, academic excellence, and servant-leadership. May God richly bless our time together."

Preacher Leandro smiled warmly. "Welcome, new students! Let's get acquainted. Please introduce yourselves."

1. *JJ Aromaj*: "Hi, I'm JJ. Passionate about music and ministry."
2. *Janna Cubar*: "Hello! I'm Janna, excited to deepen my faith."
3. *Jonathan Pechon*: "Hey, I'm Jonathan. Looking forward to learning."
4. *Manilyn Alimpuangon*: "Hi, I'm Manilyn. Eager to serve."
5. *Jason Quillano*: "What's up? I'm Jason. Ready to grow spiritually."
6. *Eva Alimpuangon*: "Hi, I'm Eva. Passionate about evangelism."
7. *Joeven Muleta*: "Hi, I'm Joeven. Here to learn and serve."
8. *Stacey Hannah Patel*: "Hi, I'm Stacey. Exploring ministry opportunities."
9. *Joycel Mondares*: "Hey, I'm Joycel. Looking forward to fellowship."
10. *Mark Beare*: "Hi, I'm Mark. Grateful for this opportunity."

Preacher Leandro beamed. "Wonderful! You're now part of the Fundamental Bible College family."

Ms. Glenda Patel distributed syllabi. "Your spiritual journey begins here. Let's support one another."

The orientation ended with prayer, and students dispersed, eager to begin their journey.