Introducing the 2025–2026 Theme: Fearless

Every fall at Concordia University Texas, we launch the academic year with a new spiritual theme—one that shapes our chapel worship, our conversations, and the way we walk together as a Christ-centered community. It’s one of my favorite traditions because it reminds us who we are and whose we are.

For 2025–2026, our theme is one I’m especially excited about: Fearless, drawn from Joshua 1:9

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

In a world full of uncertainty, transitions, and noise, Fearless invites students to stand firm in faith, trusting in God’s presence wherever life leads. This theme isn’t just a word for the year. It’s an invitation to live boldly in Christ, knowing we never walk alone.

Bringing Fearless to life in Chapel

Our Fall 2025 chapel series will explore Fearless through powerful and immersive storytelling. Each week, we’ll focus on one Old Testament character and two moments that reveal their fearless faith—shared during our Monday and Wednesday chapel services.

From Joshua’s fearless obedience to Ruth’s fearless vulnerability, each story opens a window into the kind of courage that’s not about being loud or strong—but about being faithful. The journey is biblical, but it’s also deeply personal. And as we enter the Spring semester, we’ll shift to the New Testament—looking at people who lived fearless lives in the face of real opposition and persecution.

Each chapel gathering will follow a rhythm designed to help us listen, reflect, and respond:

• Old Testament and Gospel readings that connect ancient stories with Jesus’ teachings
• A weekly theme verse to unite our hearts and voices in Scripture
• A reflection question to consider how God is working in our lives
• A weekly challenge to put faith into action on campus, in relationships, and beyond

A Few Special Moments Ahead

One especially meaningful week falls on September 15–19, during our campus-wide Week of Wellness led by the Counseling Department. That week, we’ll focus on the story of Ruth, whose fearless loyalty and vulnerability speak deeply into themes of mental health, belonging, and faithful presence in hard times. Our prayer is that this week helps our students find not just courage, but comfort and community too.

Right before Thanksgiving break, we’ll turn to Nehemiah, a leader who faced intense resistance but moved forward with fearless vision and perseverance. It’s a timely story that reminds us to look back with gratitude and forward with hope.

As we approach Advent in Week 14, we’ll close the semester with the prophet Malachi. His message of returning to God and waiting for the coming Messiah prepares our hearts for Christmas.

These closing chapels invite us to rest in the hope that, in every season, God is with us.

At Concordia, the Christian life is not an add-on—it’s the heartbeat of our community. Through this Fearless theme, we are all invited to encounter God in the Word, worship with our peers, and be equipped to live out a bold and compassionate faith.

Whether you’re facing transitions, doubts, or dreams—whether this is your first semester or your last—we want every Tornado to hear these words clearly:

“Do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you.”

Get ready to be inspired.
Get ready to be challenged.
Get ready to live Fearless.
Whoosh!