Jarvis Christian University Celebrates Jarvis Day at First Christian Church Tyler
TYLER, Texas — Jarvis Christian University joined First Christian Church Tyler on Sunday, September 13, 2026, for a special Jarvis Day, bringing together faith, education, music, and community in celebration of the longstanding connection between Jarvis and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
The 9:30 a.m. contemporary worship service featured Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt, President of Jarvis Christian University, as guest speaker, along with special music from the JCU Gospel Choir.
Jarvis Day provided an opportunity for members of the First Christian Church Tyler congregation to learn more about the University, its students, and its mission while also strengthening relationships between Jarvis and members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) throughout East Texas.
Founded in 1912, Jarvis Christian University has deep roots in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). That relationship has remained an important part of the University’s history and identity as Jarvis has grown from its beginnings as Jarvis Christian Institute into a four-year university serving students from across Texas, the nation, and beyond.
During the service, Pruitt shared a message with the congregation as the University community joined First Christian Church Tyler in worship. Her participation highlighted the connection between faith, education, leadership, and service that continues to shape the Jarvis experience.
The JCU Gospel Choir brought another important dimension to the celebration, sharing the University’s musical tradition with the congregation. Through their ministry of music, students represented the talent, spirit, and energy of the Jarvis student body while contributing to the morning’s worship experience.
Jarvis Day also reflects the University’s continuing effort to strengthen its connections with congregations and communities throughout the region. Partnerships with churches provide opportunities to introduce prospective students and families to Jarvis, engage alumni and friends, and build relationships with individuals who share the University’s commitment to education and service.
For more than a century, Jarvis Christian University has prepared students for lives of leadership and service while maintaining its commitment to providing educational opportunities to students who seek to transform their lives, families, and communities.
The University extends its appreciation to the members and leadership of First Christian Church Tyler for welcoming President Pruitt, the JCU Gospel Choir, and the broader Jarvis community for this special celebration.
As Jarvis continues building relationships across East Texas and beyond, opportunities such as Jarvis Day demonstrate how educational institutions and faith communities can work together to encourage students, strengthen communities, and expand possibilities for future generations.
Jarvis Christian University remains committed to Educating the Head, Heart, and Hand while preparing students to lead, serve, and make a difference in their communities.