Assumption University Hosts Ecumenical Worship Service

Assumption University held its third annual Ecumenical Worship Service for Black History Month in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit on Thursday, February 20 co-hosted by the Cross-Cultural Center, Campus Ministry, and Division for Student Success. 

The Kuumba Singers of Harvard College, the oldest Black organization on Harvard’s campus, opened the service by filling the chapel with prayerful music, and were later joined by Assumption’s University Chorale and Music Ministry. 

Tori Richardson ’25, president of the Black Student Union and chair of this year’s Black History Month celebration, thanked guests from the Assumption, Worcester, and wider New England communities for coming. “As we move through this Ecumenical service, let us remember that Black history is not just a moment in time to reflect on – it is a legacy that is lived out every day,” said Richardson. “It is a legacy of strength, resistance, creativity, and unwavering faith. We celebrate not only the past but also the present and future of Black excellence, knowing that our stories are still being written.”

In his welcome, Deacon Paul Covino, Director of Campus Ministry, emphasized the ecumenical nature of the service. “Tonight, Christians across denominational lines – Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox – are joined together in the Body of Christ.” Scripture readings were offered by Luwam Weldegiorgis ’27 and Jordan Revels ’25. 

Dr. Conway Campbell, Sr., Vice President for Student Success at Assumption and pastor emeritus at Grace Baptist Church, presided. In the Assumption spirit, Campbell reminded guests that they are in the company of friends – and encouraged them to spend time greeting each other in fellowship.

Following a performance of Hezekiah Walker’s “Every Praise” by the Kuumba Singers, AU Chorale, and Music Ministry – featuring Richardson as a soloist – Campbell delivered a sermon rooted in the themes of renewal and inspiration. He began with the example of Demi-Lee Brennan, an Australian woman, whom doctors called a “one-in-six-billion miracle” following the transformation of her blood type after liver transplant surgery. 

“When someone comes to Christ, something changes in them like this spiritually,” said Campbell. “This is an inside-out transformation that brings about seeing the new value that God has made in us. We are a new creation made whole in Christ.” 

The evening of community and spiritual fellowship concluded with a reception in the Lauring Community Room in Tinsley.