LPU staff and faculty gather for worship, prayer and preparation as growing enrollment, expanding partnerships and John 15:5 set the tone for 2026–27
Life Pacific University (LPU) staff and faculty gathered for the University’s annual Staff and Faculty Day Away, setting aside the pace of summer preparation to worship, pray, reconnect and prepare for a new academic year marked by growing momentum and a renewed commitment to Christ-centered mission.
Watch the recap on the LPU YouTube channel
At the heart of the gathering was LPU’s 2026–27 Verse of the Year, John 15:5: “I am the vine; you are the branches…apart from me you can do nothing.” The passage will anchor the University community throughout the year with a simple but powerful call: abide in Christ and trust Him for the fruit.
Worship was led by David Ryan Cook, LPU’s new Worship Pastor and Songwriter in Residence, alongside LPU Worship. Student leaders, Cabinet members and Campus Pastor Dan Fernandez also brought encouragement, prayer and spiritual focus to the gathering.
Rev. Dr. Billy Doray, Pastor of Radiant Church and LPU alumnus, delivered a compelling message from John 15:5, challenging the community to measure success through biblical fruitfulness and dependence on Christ.
“We don’t just study the Word; we allow the Word to study us.”
Doray called the LPU community to deeper formation through Scripture, dependence on God and receiving His love so that it can flow through us to others.
Bishop Dr. Kenneth C. Ulmer, LPU Seminary Scholar in Residence, also spoke words of encouragement and blessing over the University and its future.
“There was a strong sense of unity, joy and expectancy throughout the day,” said Dr. Angie Richey, President of Life Pacific University. “As we abide in Christ, we believe the fruit will follow. We are watching LPU’s mission flourish in remarkable ways, and we enter this year grateful, humble and expectant for what God will do next.”
The new academic year begins amid significant momentum at LPU. With enrollment nearing 1,000 degree-seeking students, more than 600 certificate learners, expanding partnerships and new doors opening, the University continues to grow its reach while remaining anchored to its mission.
As students return and a new year begins, LPU’s focus is clear:
Stay connected to the Vine. Abide in Christ. Bear fruit that lasts.
