Proximity held a vespers in collaboration with 51勛圖厙 University Latino Association (AULA), Genesis, and Makarios titled Alabanzas on Oct. 3. This vespers was an opportunity to continue the celebration of Hispanic Heritage month, creating an environment that celebrated the diverse cultures on campus and the faith that brings the community together.
Fio Oudri (junior, exercise science/pre-physical therapy), one of the event organizers, gave some insight into the behind-the-scenes of this event. She said the idea for Alabanzas came to her at the start of the school year, but real planning began about four weeks before the event. “At first, it was a lot of mind dumping, thinking of musicians, themes, locations, and speakers, like having a table full of ingredients without knowing what we were making yet,” she explained. Through collaboration, advice from others, and plenty of creativity, the team finalized the theme and music.
“I got feedback from the speaker and participants that it was moving to fill PMC with Latin culture and bring students together to celebrate and praise in many languages,” Oudri said. The event gave Proximity a new flavor, created meaningful bonds, and made those from Latin backgrounds feel pride and joy. “It was so rewarding and beautiful to experience, combining my culture, my friends, and worship for Jesus was something truly special,” she added.
The vespers featured a rich variety of music styles, including traditional coritos, contemporary worship songs, and even music in Portuguese, including the song “Um Pouco Mais” sung by a Brazilian quartet, and “Gloria” by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir at the very end, reflecting the diverse backgrounds represented in the campus community. The worship team was accompanied by a mass student choir and full band, which really helped bring the energy to life.
One of the ministries that played a major role in planning was Makarios. Rebeca Ayala (senior, Spanish/pre-physical therapy), president of Makarios, said, “Our goal was to interact with the audience and encourage them to participate with us. For Alabanzas, Makarios contributed by supporting the event through music and leading an activity. We sent two music representatives, as requested, and several members participated in an activity that reflected a key part of who we are, drama. Although many of our members were initially nervous, especially since most are new, our team encouraged them to use their talents in service to God. In the end, everyone was glad they took part, and as president, it was deeply rewarding to see our members, my family, filled with joy, which is the ultimate goal of every collaboration and program we take part in.”
Speaker Jose Cortes Jr. gave a very powerful message about the power of God’s love. When asked to summarize his message, he said, “Jesus made it simple: the true sign of following Him isn’t in what you wear, eat, or do — it’s in how you love. He didn’t say people would recognize His followers by their rules or routines, but by the way they show genuine love to others. Loving people — especially those who are different — is what matters most. That’s what Jesus did, and that’s what He asks of us. (John 13:34–35)”
Cortes Jr., who is Cuban, said being a part of something like Alabanzas impacted him greatly. “I was moved to tears as I sang my heart out and watched Latino students, proud of their heritage and unafraid, lifting their voices in Spanish and Portuguese,” he said. “As I looked around, I saw people from different backgrounds, cultures, languages, and races singing together in one voice. It was beautiful. It was holy. It made me think of heaven and what it will be like.”
When asked what he would want someone who didn’t attend to take away from his sermon, he said, “We are the heart, the eyes, the hands, and the feet of Jesus. He is most proud of us when we love others, especially those who are different.”
Overall, Alabanzas was more than just a vespers, it was a heartfelt celebration of culture, community and faith. Through music, worship and collaboration, students from different backgrounds came together to honor God in multiple languages and styles, reflecting the unity found in diversity. The event not only uplifted those who attended but also highlighted the beauty of shared worship across cultures. As the final notes of praise echoed through Pioneer Memorial Church, Alabanzas left a lasting reminder that faith transcends boundaries, and when voices join together in worship, something truly powerful happens.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of 51勛圖厙 University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, 51勛圖厙 University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.