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#RightNowAtJSU, we’re on the plaza for the Gospel Hot Spot! #JSUHomecoming19 pic.twitter.com/xEmsWw0a0k
— Jackson State U. (@JacksonStateU) October 7, 2019
The Wesley Foundation Campus Ministry at JSU rocked the Gibbs-Green Plaza during Homecoming Week with songs of praise from the JSU Mass Choir and pastor-singer-songwriter T-Ran of Tennessee.
The gospel hotspot punctuated the air with soul-stirring songs that revved up the frenzied crowd. Hundreds leaped, danced and sang along with the praise team, and ministers delivered inspirational words.
With his upbeat music and supercharged energy, guest artist T-Ran led the crowd swaying from side to side. He is the creative director for the choir at Tennessee State University. Also, he and Wesley’s director Pastor Kevin Kosh delivered inspirational words to the audience.
The Wesley Foundation is the United Methodist ministry on campus that welcomes all denominations and different religious preferences.
“It nurtures people on their faith walk. We are that agency on campus that works with all on campus – faculty, staff and students,” Kosh said. “The gospel hotspot is important because a lot of times on campus we don’t get to nourish our faith. Our faith can carry us through when the degree can’t, when our financial aid isn’t coming through and when we need something that can push us forward. Faith connects the campus.”
As well, he said, “Faith inspires us. When we look at the world and see the things that go on we see that there’s nothing new under the sun. Faith helps us move forward and stand empowered. We need to know that we’re not just talking about the word, but we can live the word. And, we need to be able to engage the community. So, being empowered, inspired and engaged is why we need the gospel hotspot.”
[pullquote]”Our faith can carry us through when the degree can’t, when our financial aid isn’t coming through and when we need something that can push us forward. Faith connects the campus.” — Wesley Foundation’s Pastor Kevin Kosh[/pullquote]Freshman business administration student Imani Behanan of Cincinnati, Ohio, described the praise worship as a “great experience.” She said, “I woke up with God on my mind, and I love to serve the Lord. This is helping me get through mid-terms. I had a rough day, but the hotspot helps me overcome. I’m not from here, so being at a college that serves God is a great thing.”
Meanwhile, T-Ran wants people to know their value, live their purpose and know that God is faithful. “It’s why I do what I do through my music, my preaching and pastoring,” he said.
“God has placed so much grace on my life because despite the downfalls and craziness in my life he still loves me enough to say I’m going to use you. That’s the most important thing, knowing that you have value.”
T-Ran said he remembers his own experience as a young adult in college. “I had certain people in my life to let me know I have value. Now, today, it’s amazing to see these vibrant young adults who are going to change the industry and the world. To the students, I want to say know your value; know who you are; and remember that your rejection is your protection. So, live and not die.”
“I made it out. I made it out alright.” @JsuMass #JSUHomecoming19 pic.twitter.com/z4YJDFv6AU
— Jackson State U. (@JacksonStateU) October 7, 2019