This year’s CUAA campus theme challenges us to keep our eyes on Jesus when we struggle to feel hopeful when we face earthly challenges, doubts, and uncertainty.


By Rev. Randy Duncan

This year’s CUAA theme is “Enduring Hope,” based upon Psalm 42. The thought behind this is that no matter the hardships and struggles that we have to endure, we have a greater enduring hope based upon the presence and promises of Jesus. Although the whole Psalm will be used throughout the year, the theme is primarily based upon verses 5 and 11 (they are the same) which state:

Why are you cast down, O my soul,
    and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
    my salvation and my God.

English Standard Version (ESV)

So many of our students, as well as faculty and staff, are struggling with anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. We have the opportunity to keep pointing towards Jesus—our sure and enduring hope! I look forward to unpacking this theme and verses on campus this coming year.


Want in?

CUAA is committed to an environment that welcomes all students and invites them to ask questions and dig deeper as they grow, learn, and better understand God’s calling in their lives. For over 50 years, the motto of “Christ First in Everything” has been the foundational building block of our university. Today, we continue to be a Christ-centered university. We are active and intentional in our mission—to help students “develop … for service to Christ in the Church and the World.”


—Rev. Randy Duncan is Campus Pastor for Concordia University Ann Arbor.