Welcome Home! — 8/17/2026 10:00 AM
Today's speaker is Dr. Thomas White, President of Cedarville University.
Notes
Chapel Recap: We Are Called to Be “Built by Wisdom”
Cedarville University welcomed students, faculty, and staff back to campus today for the opening chapel service of the academic year. Dr. Thomas White set the tone for the year, calling the Cedarville community to worship together, build meaningful relationships, and pursue wisdom in an increasingly artificial age.
A central focus of today’s chapel was the University’s approach to artificial intelligence. Dr. White emphasized that AI is neither a savior nor something Christians can ignore. Instead, Cedarville University aims to prepare biblically faithful servant leaders who engage AI with skill, discernment, academic integrity, and humility. Students were encouraged to become AI-literate, learn to evaluate AI tools responsibly within their fields, and protect the critical-thinking, reading, and writing skills that rigorous academic work develops.
The message also underscored that technology cannot replace human connection. New and returning wtudents were urged to participate in discipleship groups, share meals with one another, and practice face-to-face fellowship
The chapel service also introduced Dr. White's new sermon series, “Built by Wisdom." Throughout the year, the Cedarville community will study wisdom literature from Job, Ecclesiastes, and Proverbs, asking how God’s Word shapes faithful decisions amid information overload and cultural uncertainty. The challenge was clear: seek not merely more information, but godly, biblical wisdom.
The service also previewed Fall Bible Conference, featuring Dr. Trevin Wax, and shared campus updates including the future Bolthouse Academic Center. The welcome also celebrated new apartment spaces and an expanded weigh room, reminders of continuing investment in the student experience on a growing campus today.
As the semester begins, Cedarville University remains committed to helping students flourish through Christ-centered education, faithful community, and lives built by wisdom in every academic, spiritual, and relational opportunity available.