Joy to the World

By Inge-Lise Titheradge
Director of Residential Community

On most Tuesday mornings, if you were to venture over to Chang Commons and to the residential community space, you would encounter a hive of activity. Why, you may ask? Because it’s “Playschool” time! Children from around the world who are painting, enjoying water play, singing songs in different languages, reading stories, jumping on the outside playground equipment, and eating snacks are all part of the Playschool Co-op. If you are ever fortunate enough to have the privilege of working with families and children, unexpected beautiful surprises seem to go hand in hand, and this program is one of them.  This group began when a regular mom saw a need, presented a great idea to the Office of Housing and Residential Community, and we were able to resource it in countless ways. How come? Because Fuller is a place that believes in holistic life, and “life” for the majority includes “little people.”

One of the reasons families come to our graduate institution, I have been told numerous times, is because we have space, facilities, and programs that cater toward families—yes, those members who are the non-student, yet are equally transported along for the duration of a parent’s educational journey. The Office of Residential Community exists primarily to make sure that this very large “attached” group of people equally thrives. 

There has been many a day when my spirit has been wonderfully uplifted because a child belonging to one of our many Community Coordinators—those who tirelessly work to build connections and friendships amidst graduate school stress—comes to visit me in my office and share with me precious thoughts on their day, their new shoes, and what they have been up to.

Children are a gift, but I believe they have gifts that stop us in our tracks and remind us to look into their faces, which is to see Jesus—the very one who came amongst us. In that, children bring us joy and direct our attention to the babe who is Emmanuel, God with us.

Read more Christmas reflections from Fuller faculty, alumni/ae, staff, and students.