This year, PUC’s campus ministry team created a new role, Vespers programming director, with student Alexis Villarreal being the first to fit this title. For Alexis, it is a demanding but rewarding job, requiring intentionality and meticulous work, and best of all, being a part of a great team that keeps him grounded. 

Alexis kindly answered some questions for us to learn more about this new role and spiritual life at PUC. 

Walk us through a typical vespers service.

As people arrive at Dauphinee Chapel, Christian music plays through the speakers. Before 8 pm, I huddle up with all the participants and give a brief overview of the program and how everything will flow. We have prayer, and at 8 pm, it’s “go time.” We have someone walk on the stage to welcome all the students to the program.

Next, the worship team sings two songs, creating an inviting atmosphere for all the students. After the second song ends, the speaker approaches the front to give the message. A third song led by the worship team follows the message and prayer at the end. 

Lastly, we segway into the announcements and dismissal of the program. Most of the time, there is an event that follows called “Afterlight.” This is where snacks and refreshments promote fellowship between the students. The location would vary from the Fireside Room or Grind.

What is the most challenging task of being vespers programming director? What do you enjoy the most about your role? 

I would say that the most challenging task would be finding solutions for last-minute changes to the program. Knowing your resources like the back of your hand is a must. If anything goes wrong, it is always best to have a backup plan. 

My role allows me to see people use their talents to honor God. I love having the means to help people use their talents for God. Watching the completion of a program would also be something I enjoy. A lot of work and effort is put into each Vespers and it is satisfying to see it go according to plan.

Who else is a part of your Vespers team? How has it been working with them? 

My team consists of six people, including myself: Jonathan Fernandez, Hailey Wright, Nahomi Mendoza-Mayen, Luke Garcia, and Dovan Martella. It was a bit rocky at the start, but as the quarter progressed, we learned a lot. Without them, I would have had every single task on my shoulders. Tasks would be distributed amongst them all and would turn out great.

What positive comments have you received about vespers? 

I have heard some comments surface relating to the music. Many have loved the worship team and how well they create an inviting space for everyone. I have also heard others say that a few of the speakers have given relatable messages. All around, people have seemed to like Vespers.

As vespers programming director, what culture do you hope to shape with the PUC students and community?

I desire to promote inclusivity and a sense of belonging for anyone who attends, both students and visitors alike! I want people to encounter Christ every time they attend vespers through the music or the message.

How can students get involved with vespers, aside from attending? 

If interested, students can choose to help with a “Welcome,” an Icebreaker, introduction to the speaker, or even a scripture reading. All these positions are always available! I can also refer people to the Music Director, Mika Palitang, if they are interested in being a part of the worship portion of a service. Anyone that can play an instrument or anyone that would like to sing are welcome to participate. 

What do you hope students take away from Vespers? 

I hope students feel a sense of belonging. I want everyone to know they are welcome at PUC and that it is their home. The Vespers service is a time when a family comes together to worship.

How can faculty and staff support you, your team, and the student’s spiritual life? 

I am a firm believer that evangelism is done through presence. I understand it might be difficult to expect professors to go to Vespers every Friday night. However, their presence is comforting and reassuring and would display their care for the students and the college.

What makes you proud to be a student at PUC?

To begin with, I am the first in my immediate family to go to college. I am the oldest sibling, meaning I inherently have an important role model to my siblings and younger relatives. I did not know what to expect when I chose PUC.

So far, I have loved every second. Through the help of God, I have built a great support system of friends who have my back. With the connections I made during my freshman year here, I was able to volunteer with Vespers and Afterlight. I am proud to be a part of the spiritual life here at PUC. I want to show every student that change can be made, no matter their background.