The Omnibus

Issue date: 10/7/04 Section: Feature

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"He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so it will be even more fruitful." Jesus said of his Father as recorded in John 15:2.

Media Credit: Audrey Garrett Sophomores Kristin Smokes and Quiana Jones interact during Da Vine´s small group Bible study.

Dwayne Pano, a senior at Southwest Baptist University and initiator of Da Vine, a new campus ministry, is a living example of this verse. This past summer, Pano worked as a counselor at a Kids Across America Kamp, where he led and worked. However, he said he felt God asking him, "Can you lead other Christians?"

Pano was bearing fruit, but God wanted him to bear more. He gave Pano the idea of starting Da Vine, which began when Pano returned to SBU for the fall semester.

Da Vine is a ministry geared toward meeting the diverse cultural needs of minority groups at SBU. Da Vine offers a time of praise and worship, an opportunity to hear a speaker, and a chance to share in a small Bible study group on Wednesday nights. It may sound like just another worship service, but, according to Pano, it is not.

"Everyone wants African Americans to be a part of their ministry-and that's fine, but we can't always relate. Not everyone can relate to Michael W. Smith," Pano said, explaining one difference Da Vine boasts.

"They need people who are open minded and okay with things like dancing. Dancing is one way that they worship," said sophomore Ivry Karamitros, a Da Vine attendee in reference to the style of worship. She continued, "It's a very relaxed and carefree environment. It's not like everything else on SBU's campus. It's not traditional."

Media Credit: Audrey Garrett Senior Dwayne Pano speaks to Da Vine group members.

Sophomore Kristin Smokes, SBU student and Da Vine attendee, also commented on the worship style. She said, "It's inspirational." She also said, "It is one night of the week where you can go and talk to peers who can relate with you."

"It's more personal and it's within walking distance." Lynne Klaasen said, explaining the reason she enjoys attending Da Vine.

Da Vine got its name after Pano read John 15. Pano said the chapter speaks of remaining connected to Jesus just as a branch is connected to the vine.

Pano says the leadership of Da Vine is connected to Jesus. He wanted leaders who were "willing to go through the trenches."

Though the leaders have not faced any literal trenches, they have faced a few trials in getting Da Vine started. Pano said another ministry meets at the same time and the conflicting schedules of the two ministries placed an obstacle in front of the leaders.

Despite the obstacles, Da Vine members continue to trust God and press forward inviting anyone who wants to attend to come. "Everyone's welcome," Pano said.

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