2002 Class Graduates
By Jewel Kosiorek ('02)

For the 2002 AIM students, March 12, 2005 marked a milestone and for some a sense of closure. Two years, 5 months and 11 days prior, 36 students took a leap of faith, not knowing where they were going, only knowing where they had been (with some wondering why they were in Lubbock, Texas!). They had no idea how different they'd be as a result of this life-changing experience. Thirtythree out of 36 students ended up back in Lubbock to be honored for their commitment and dedication of service to God for the last 2-3 years.

The days prior to graduation, the students swapped stories of victory and triumph like war veterans fresh off the battlefield with the smell of smoke still suspended in the air. It was encouraging to hear the stories and to see the fruit from those who had been to the field and back. God changed their lives in amazing ways as He used them to influence and change other people's lives on the field and back home. Classmates that barely spoke two words to each other while they were in Lubbock over 2 years ago were talking incessantly about how God had been working in their lives and giving glory to Him. Teammates caught up with each other since the last time they spoke. Many sad, yet joyful, tears and hugs were exchanged over a period of several days as God reunited friends in Christ while they reminisced about "home" on the field. The love of Christ was evident in them all, and they will never be the same again.

The graduates were honored by the presence of friends, family, AIM and SIBI faculty and staff, along with other AIM alumni at the Family Life Center at Sunset. The evening began with a marvelous meal catered by a fine Italian restaurant with delectable desserts provided by some of the loving ladies from the Sunset congregation. Jason Thornton was the featured speaker for the graduation ceremony. The 2002 class was Jason's last class to work with as the AIM Staff Coordinator before moving on to work with the Memorial Drive Church of Christ in Tulsa, OK. It was an honor for the class to have him address them at their graduation banquet. The class remembers Jason for his heart for God and has been blessed by his example.

Finally, the moment had come! After the AIM staff was recognized, the class that started in August 2002 was ready to graduate! Each student walked across the stage to receive his/her certificate and had his/her moment of honor. However, the true honor went to God for all of His work in these students' hearts and lives to break them, use them, and mature them for His purpose, for His kingdom, and for His glory. Their lives will never be the same again.