Keeping the Feast of Tabernacles While Achieving Success in College

Since Church of God members take God’s command to observe the Feast of Tabernacles seriously, they run into the challenge of taking time off from college and work. What strategies are most effective for taking that time off but still achieving success?

Members of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association, look forward to the biblical Feast of Tabernacles all year. We cherish what it pictures, as well as the opportunity to spend time with brethren and enjoy the abundance of blessings that come with keeping God’s commanded festivals.

But for many teens and young adults in college, this time of year is also filled with the stress and apprehension of explaining their beliefs and handling two weeks of missed classes. Professors can be inflexible and intimidating when approached about missing class to attend the Feast of Tabernacles, and the workload can be overwhelming.

We know that we are to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). God promises to take care of us if we obey Him (Matthew 6:33), but deciding how to act on that promise can be difficult.

Encouragement and tips from those who have been there

For those facing the challenge of obeying God and keeping His holy days during college, you may find encouragement in knowing that many others have dealt with similar circumstances before you. Not only did we choose to follow God and trust Him to take care of us, we also saw His hand in our lives as a result.

I asked several young adults who have been through college to share their experiences and advice for those who are facing these challenges today.

Leslie Schwartz, from Oregon, shared:

“Throughout high school, college and graduate school, I’ve learned that the best approach to discuss time off for the Feast and holy days with teachers and professors is a positive, proactive one. Before you meet with them, pray about each class and your desired outcome, then expect the best possible solution, knowing that God is ultimately in charge and will bless you for following Him.

“Be prepared to explain why you observe these holy days with excitement for your beliefs (without trying to proselytize, of course), and let your zeal and commitment to your faith speak for itself. If you are excited about your faith, others will see this and respect your dedication much more than if you have a defensive attitude or argue with them about it.

“In addition to taking a positive approach, I’ve found it helpful to look at each course syllabus and map out what I’ll be missing and figure out a plan for how I will stay on top of my work while I’m away—doing it beforehand, asking classmates to takes notes for me, rescheduling exams, etc. It impresses professors when they see that you’ve taken the time to plan for your success and will show them that you’re serious about their course and learning the material.

“I also would recommend asking them in person (before/after class or in office hours) instead of over email, since it connects you with your beliefs and makes it personal. It’s much easier to say ‘no’ to a computer compared to a friendly face they see is interested in their class.”

Shannon Foster, from Ohio, shared:

“I had a professor in grad school tell me that I would ‘never be able to get an internship or job’ if I went to the Feast, and that I needed to rethink what I was doing. I wanted to quit, but my parents were so very supportive and helpful.

“Upon my first class after the Feast, I was one of the only students raising my hand to answer questions. I got an A in her class. God brought me through that entire situation and that made my faith stronger. I had no problem getting an internship or a job, by the way. I am in my sixth year as a school counselor and have had no problems getting time off from work. I see God’s hand working in my life.

“Ask God to:

• Give you the strength, courage and wisdom.
• Let His words come out of your mouth.
• Soften the hearts of the professors.
• Strengthen and encourage you upon your return, as it can be very overwhelming coming back to the ‘real world’ in this physical life.”

Tim Foster, from Ohio, commented:

“With God’s help, in a down economy in 2009, I was able to plan ahead, study for a Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Exam over many months, take the time off without pay and travel for two whole weeks to South America for the Feast of Tabernacles. I had enough money for the Feast, made sure I was as current as possible at the office and passed the exam with flying colors a week after the Feast. I’m convinced God was involved with my workload at the office, my exam studying and the fact I chose to not sacrifice one single ounce of the Feast of Tabernacles.

“As far as advice is concerned, I’d make sure to approach professors early, be confident in your abilities and your beliefs, and don’t allow them to give any reason that you cannot overcome by doing work early or late. Experience and common sense have proven that missing time never negated a person’s qualifications.

“Make sure they have no reason to doubt your work or your work ethic—otherwise they could have ammunition for their pressure. Tell them early and continuously remind them. Don’t make it a request, but a statement.”

Erin Tootle and her husband, Taylor, are members of the Cincinnati/Dayton, Ohio, congregation of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association.

See these related links:

• What Does the Feast of Tabernacles Mean for Christians Today?
• How Should We Prepare for God’s Festivals?
• Working With Your Child’s Teachers About Absences for the Biblical Festivals