Great Welcome at Messiah College

[J-O-S-H-U-A]

A friend of mine drove me up to observe the Equality Ride stop at Messiah College and I was so glad the the Messiah students and staff were so welcoming to us; it was unexpected to get such a warm welcome (especially after what happened the day before in Virignia). But really, from what I saw....they may as well had been carrying signs saying "Welcome Equality Riders! Let's all sit down together, have some tea, and just discuss this issue in a Jesus-Like way." The only time I felt uneasy was around those "Repent America" people, they seemed so intent on ruining our discussions. The students actually joined us in strong discussion with those people.....I was amazed at how they were so quick to defend us. Of course some of them joined them, but the number that joined us was a lot higher. The discussion forum that happened in the chapel was very good, it showed that this issue CAN be discussed in a Christ-Like manner even if certain people's views differ. (Jarrett and Mandy did GREAT btw...) In the end, I believe the stop was successful, a few students are attempting to start a GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) and I think the riders really opened the minds of some of the students.

[u-dog]

Thanks, Josh, for going and supporting the riders! It sounds like it was a wonderful experience for you and for the riders and for the Messiah College Community. All anyone can really do is to speak the truth in love. All "conversions" are in the hands of the Holy Spirit, not us. You done good!

[Daniel]

Joshua- Thanks for posting this news! Great stuff!

[Vanessa White]

Wow, Joshua, thanks for going there to show your support. I wanted to be there but couldn't. It sounds promising, and that the students there want to carry on changes after the visit, which is always great hope to me. Glad that you are here to share it with us. Peace and love, Vanessa :love: :love:

[scott snedeker]

Once again I see the evidence of people who are making the world a kinder place. It is happening! Keep it up! Everyone wins!:)

[davidb]

That is great news. I've always been pleasantly surprised at the BMC's level of tolerance. Hopefully it's the start of some really great things.

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What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what lies within us.

--Emerson