AIM News 09/2003 - 30th Anniversary

To the casual observer, it probably looked harmless enough... a few hundred people getting together, some old friendships renewed, a little fun thrown into the mix. But to the keen eye, trained in the art of seeing God at work and recognizing matters of kingdom significance, it was a momentous occasion. Those who traveled from afar served as testimonies to this, as past AIMers from Lubbock and surrounding areas and states were joined by alumni for whom it took considerably more planning and sacrifice to attend. As the week progressed, individuals and families arrived who had driven and flown from as far away as California, Oregon, Canada and South Carolina. What these words and pictures communicate is but a small summary of the great things that happened that weekend in September. To God be the glory!

AIM: Past, Present, and Future

The celebration of AIM's 30th anniversary officially started on Friday morning, September 19, 2003. However, the real story began years earlier, when AIM had its humble beginnings in 1973. Joe Bright, one of the members of the first AIM class and team, kicked off the activities Friday morning by recounting his experience as one of those pioneers. Even for those most well-versed in AIM's story, what Joe had to share was revealing and informative.

Don Solomon picked up where Joe Bright left off by describing some of the early and intermediate years of AIM. This was meaningful not only because of the light that it shed on AIM's past, but also because there were a number of alumni present who were students during "Solomon's reign" (including the current AIM Coordinator and AIM Secretary, Kris and Barb Smith).

Following on Don Solomon's heels was Jay Jarboe, who served as AIM Director in the mid- and late-90's. Jay spoke of the challenges and growth he experienced in his faith as he transitioned into a role of leadership at AIM. He segued into a conclusion by the current AIM Coordinator, Kris Smith. Kris shared some recent developments for AIM and what God may do in the future.

Celebrating What God Has Done

The pinnacle of the weekend, of course, was the banquet Friday night. Held at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, the banquet served not only as part of the AIM celebration but also as the conclusion of Sunset's annual World Evangelism Forum. The crowd of 400+ enjoyed a multimedia program that included several speakers. After an introduction by Kris Smith, former AIM Staff Coordinator Jason Thornton ('92) introduced a singing group of 8 past AIMers. As they sang, a slideshow played featuring pictures of AIM students and administrators from throughout the past 30 years. The audience laughed at certain pictures, such as Ed Wharton teaching in the 70's, and applauded upon seeing pictures of past administrators, several of whom were in attendance.

Joe Bright was the keynote speaker for the banquet. His words about the scriptural allegory of the Shepherd and the sheep were enlightening and gave glory to Jesus as the Shepherd of our souls. "I guess in the final analysis, I'm just a dumb sheep," Joe concluded, "but you ought to see my Shepherd!"

Fellowship and Devotion

The celebration and reunion did not conclude with the banquet. Rather, on Saturday afternoon there was an extended time of simple fellowship, fun, food and mutual devotion to our Lord. The Sunset Powerhouse was made available for all to use, and past AIMers came in abundance to enjoy the afternoon together playing games and just talking. People brought photo albums to share, played games of basketball and volleyball, and enjoyed seeing each other's children.

After a delicious catered meal, everyone gathered around for a devotional. This was highlighted by a time during which past AIMers from throughout the years circled around the present AIM class, offering them encouragement and admonition for the adventure that they are just beginning.