He grew up in a small town but spent a large portion of his life overseas. He enjoys the outdoors, sports and his favorite T.V. shows: 24, Psych and House. He is very cultured and social.
Having worked and served the church in North Africa and Europe, professor of intercultural studies at Liberty University Edward Smither has devoted his life to working among Muslim people groups all over the world. After growing up in the United States and living among Muslims during his years in college at North Carolina State University, Smither spent 10 years overseas where France and two North African countries stole his heart.
While in one North African country, Smither worked with a humanitarian organization serving to improve schools. In another, Smither taught at the university — an environment to serve and show Christ’s love to Muslims. The University of Paris invited him to serve as a Protestant chaplain. Smither ministered daily to Muslims in these three countries.
“After reading Genesis 12:1-3, I became convinced that my life’s purpose was to spread the Gospel among the least-reached peoples of the world,” Smither said. “While this was a general conviction, I developed a specific heart for Muslim peoples, as I had many Muslim friends at N.C. State.”
Hospitality and relationship-building are two key concepts that are extremely important to Muslim people. Smither used these to connect with them.
“As I spent time with Muslims and got into their lives, including taking part in their festivals, my love and burden for them only increased,” Smither said. “So I prayed and sought opportunities to spend my life serving among Muslims.”
Smither’s decision to commit a majority of his life overseas led to a special trip to South Africa during his freshman year at N.C. State. The people he encountered in South Africa had hearts that were devoted to Christ, which impacted him greatly.
For the next four years, he was unable to travel overseas, but his experience in South Africa convicted his heart. He knew that reaching the world for Christ was God’s heart and it immediately became his life’s priority, he said.
“I remember being deeply affected by the poverty such that I told my family I didn’t want anything for Christmas that year,” Smither said.
His greatest love is for Jesus Christ and reaching people around the world for God’s eternal kingdom. In 1998, a second great love entered into his life while he was attending Liberty’s Theological Seminary.
While working in Lynchburg, Smither met his future wife, Shawn, at their local church. Shawn was in the process of applying with a mission’s organization and had an increasing desire to go overseas. Five months after they met, they were united by marriage and they began serving together.
Three darling children now fill the Smither household — Brennan, 7, and Emma, 5, were both born overseas in North Africa. Their youngest child Eve is now 3.
Smither is devoted to being a model for his family. Providing for, protecting and playing with his wife and kids are strong attributes to who he is as a husband and a father, whether in the states or overseas, according to Shawn.
“A great deal of the ministry efforts that we were involved in included our whole family,” Shawn said. “This allows us to be together, enjoy each other and be with others at the same time.”
After spending a decade overseas working among Muslim people groups, he and his family returned to the U.S. where he soon was offered a teaching position at Liberty.
In 2006, Dr. Don Fanning requested that Smither would teach an Introduction to Islam class as part of the undergraduate intercultural studies degree.
In its beginning, a small class of six devoted students sat before him each week eager to learn more about Muslim culture and the religion of Islam. By the second year of the class, it remained as an undergrad course while also adding a graduate/seminary section and on-line version of the class.
“We must see Muslims first as real people — people who want to get married, have a family, get a job and do a good job raising kids…” Smither said. “(We need to) see Muslims ultimately as people who do not know Christ. More than seeing them as Muslims…I see them as people without a Savior.”
Recently, a local mosque opened in Lynchburg. Once hearing the news, Smither immediately sent a personal letter welcoming them to the community and asked to get to know them. Nothing holds him back from reaching out to Muslims all over the world, whether seas away or those in his own back yard.
Visiting this new local mosque and previously making frequent trips to the mosque at Charlottesville, Smither gets to know the Muslim community, establishes relationships and ultimately shares Jesus Christ with them.
Teaching students and equipping them for their futures is something Smither greatly enjoys as a Liberty professor. Even though he cherishes his teaching position, he is open to wherever God would lead his family in the future. North Africa and the Middle East are areas of great sentiment in his heart, which he would love to return to and serve once again.
“As a family, we take it year by year, and we are completely open to God’s leading,” Smither said.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Outside of Classroom Walls
He somberly removed his shoes, leaving his feet bare on the soft carpet, as he entered the doorway to the mosque. Joining his fellow Muslim believers he prepared to begin Friday prayers called Jumah.
New faces sat in metal chairs alongside the prayer room. Dressed in modest attire with shoeless feet, as a sign of respect, this group of Liberty students prepared to observe how Muslims perform their Jumah prayers.
Both Maqsud Ahmad, leader of the mosque and Dr. Edward Smither, professor of the Introduction to Islam course at Liberty University, said they look forward to the frequent visits each semester where both Christians and Muslims have a chance to interact with one another and ask questions.
“We are very encouraged to have built the mosque, especially for Friday prayers,” Ahmad said. “We can offer a place for all Muslims alike to come amidst their busy schedules to say their prayers together.”
Smither said he wanted a first-hand observation of how Islam is lived out for his students. Previously, the class would travel to Charlottesville, Va. to attend prayers at UVA. When the Greater Lynchburg Islamic Association (GLIA) opened one in Lynchburg, a more local opportunity did arise. Immediately welcoming the Muslim mosque to the community, Smither sought to build relationships with them and open a greater door of education for his students to walk through.
“Our approach has been, as a class, to be exposed to Muslims to observe how Friday prayers happen,” Smither said.
As Ahmad and the GLIA have an open-door approach with members of the community, they were eager to have the Liberty group participate in dialogue with the leaders of their mosque. After observing Friday prayers, Ahmad offered a lunch of pizza and soda for the students before their time of discussion.
Once stomachs were full and conversations had begun, the Muslim leaders prepared for a time of discussion with the Liberty students.
Usually about two to three hours elapse before the groups are ready to end their dialogue, Smither said.
“They are very open for discussion. In fact, one of the first times we went they portrayed that life was short and said, ‘let’s not just ask nice questions but be open and honest to ask the important questions,’” Smither said.
The students were able to gather education through their dialogue time. The first-hand experience enabled them to not only learn about Islam but to meet Muslim believers and begin building relationships with them.
“I learned how incredibly relatable the people were. They truly placed incredible value on people and relationships, regardless of religious differences,” senior Marilyn Britt said.
The GLIA enjoys this time with the students to discuss their religion of Islam as well as answering numerous questions.
As this is not a time of debate between religions, but merely discussing religions as a means of education, the GLIA welcomes the students into their mosque. The doors of their mosque are open to everyone, according to Ahmad.
“I learned through my experience at the mosque to ask questions as most of the Muslims here are very educated and intelligent,” junior Chris Biddix said. “God taught me (through this experience) to treat all people as people and to care about them. Sharing life with people is the best way to reach them, as opportunities to share the truth will no doubt arise.”
After a few years of visiting the Lynchburg mosque, Smither and his students have, extended hospitality to the Muslim community to build relationships.
Always looking for ministry opportunities that may arise, Smither and his students continue to visit the mosque multiple times through the semester as a means of education and ministry.
“I think there’s a need for mutual understanding on both sides of the spectrum as there are walls of ignorance, fear and misunderstanding,” Smither said. “A lot is solved over hospitality and through friendship. I think its just the human need for friendship and through that relationship we can freely share the gospel.”
New faces sat in metal chairs alongside the prayer room. Dressed in modest attire with shoeless feet, as a sign of respect, this group of Liberty students prepared to observe how Muslims perform their Jumah prayers.
Both Maqsud Ahmad, leader of the mosque and Dr. Edward Smither, professor of the Introduction to Islam course at Liberty University, said they look forward to the frequent visits each semester where both Christians and Muslims have a chance to interact with one another and ask questions.
“We are very encouraged to have built the mosque, especially for Friday prayers,” Ahmad said. “We can offer a place for all Muslims alike to come amidst their busy schedules to say their prayers together.”
Smither said he wanted a first-hand observation of how Islam is lived out for his students. Previously, the class would travel to Charlottesville, Va. to attend prayers at UVA. When the Greater Lynchburg Islamic Association (GLIA) opened one in Lynchburg, a more local opportunity did arise. Immediately welcoming the Muslim mosque to the community, Smither sought to build relationships with them and open a greater door of education for his students to walk through.
“Our approach has been, as a class, to be exposed to Muslims to observe how Friday prayers happen,” Smither said.
As Ahmad and the GLIA have an open-door approach with members of the community, they were eager to have the Liberty group participate in dialogue with the leaders of their mosque. After observing Friday prayers, Ahmad offered a lunch of pizza and soda for the students before their time of discussion.
Once stomachs were full and conversations had begun, the Muslim leaders prepared for a time of discussion with the Liberty students.
Usually about two to three hours elapse before the groups are ready to end their dialogue, Smither said.
“They are very open for discussion. In fact, one of the first times we went they portrayed that life was short and said, ‘let’s not just ask nice questions but be open and honest to ask the important questions,’” Smither said.
The students were able to gather education through their dialogue time. The first-hand experience enabled them to not only learn about Islam but to meet Muslim believers and begin building relationships with them.
“I learned how incredibly relatable the people were. They truly placed incredible value on people and relationships, regardless of religious differences,” senior Marilyn Britt said.
The GLIA enjoys this time with the students to discuss their religion of Islam as well as answering numerous questions.
As this is not a time of debate between religions, but merely discussing religions as a means of education, the GLIA welcomes the students into their mosque. The doors of their mosque are open to everyone, according to Ahmad.
“I learned through my experience at the mosque to ask questions as most of the Muslims here are very educated and intelligent,” junior Chris Biddix said. “God taught me (through this experience) to treat all people as people and to care about them. Sharing life with people is the best way to reach them, as opportunities to share the truth will no doubt arise.”
After a few years of visiting the Lynchburg mosque, Smither and his students have, extended hospitality to the Muslim community to build relationships.
Always looking for ministry opportunities that may arise, Smither and his students continue to visit the mosque multiple times through the semester as a means of education and ministry.
“I think there’s a need for mutual understanding on both sides of the spectrum as there are walls of ignorance, fear and misunderstanding,” Smither said. “A lot is solved over hospitality and through friendship. I think its just the human need for friendship and through that relationship we can freely share the gospel.”
Forging a New Community Relationship
Two men call Lynchburg their home community — one a Christian and one a Muslim. In a city full of churches, a community of Muslims began a mosque. Going beyond the boundaries of two very different religions, both men formed a strong and accepting relationship.
Lynchburg’s first mosque, located off of Airport Road near Campbell County, opened in 2008 and is a home of worship to over 70 families. This worship center for Muslims is part of the Greater Lynchburg Islamic Association, which was founded in 2006.
Beginning with nearly a half dozen Muslim families, members of the GLIA realized they were in dire need to provide a place of prayer for these faithful followers. Now 25 to 30 families regularly attend Friday prayers.
“We have children that we need to teach our faith to,” President of the GLIA Maqsud Ahmad said. “We need to teach our children not only on Sundays, but we need to show them the reciting of the Qur’an and the whole of Islam.”
Lynchburg is a city swarming with such places of worship for all religions. Dr. Edward Smither, professor of intercultural studies at Liberty University, is a Christian whose belief system is rooted in biblical principles. The command in Matthew 28:18-20, which commands all Christians to tells others about Jesus Christ, is one to which Smither holds tightly. That passage is commonly referred to as the Great Commission.
Reaching out to the Muslim community in Lynchburg is a passion of Smither’s. When Smither learned of the mosque, he immediately sent a personalized letter to Ahmad and the GLIA, welcoming them. His extension of friendship paved the way for acceptance.
“When I first heard about the mosque in Lynchburg I was concerned about how they would be received,” Smither said. “Having lived in North Africa and loving Muslims, I wanted one of the first things they heard to be welcoming. So I wrote a note telling them I was thankful to God they were in the community.”
Receiving a positive response from the Lynchburg community as a whole, including other religious communities, was encouraging to Ahmad. Building relationships is important to the GLIA as they keep open doors to everyone, offering many opportunities to connect with local churches and synagogues for dialogue about their differing religions.
“We are very open to the community and with the other religions. All faiths should come together to make acquaintances and to learn and share problems together,” Ahmad said. “This is the main idea with all three major religions (Christianity, Judaism and Islam) — that we fellowship together, always in peace.”
The mosque serves as a place for any Muslim to fellowship and remain faithful to their prayers to Allah in the midst of their busy schedules.
GLIA decided to create this mosque to have a place to practice their beliefs collectively. This was most important for the Jumah prayers (Friday prayers) and the Isha (the last evening prayer of the day). Having five prayer times per day, the congregation strives to join others at the mosque specifically for these prayers, Ahmad said.
“A mosque is just like the church — families come together in fellowship for prayers,” Ahmad said.
Smither uses this time as an opportunity to meet other Muslims in the area and to observe how they practice their own religion. As a professor of Introduction to Islam, Smither also works with Ahmad to present an opportunity for his students to attend Friday prayers once in the semester. The purpose of this field trip is to observe and continue their education through first-hand experience.
“In seeking to make disciples of all nations, it is imperative that we understand the worldview and beliefs of those whom God has called us to reach,” Smither said. “This involves moving toward them, building friendship and trust, and learning first-hand what they believe.”
Lynchburg’s first mosque, located off of Airport Road near Campbell County, opened in 2008 and is a home of worship to over 70 families. This worship center for Muslims is part of the Greater Lynchburg Islamic Association, which was founded in 2006.
Beginning with nearly a half dozen Muslim families, members of the GLIA realized they were in dire need to provide a place of prayer for these faithful followers. Now 25 to 30 families regularly attend Friday prayers.
“We have children that we need to teach our faith to,” President of the GLIA Maqsud Ahmad said. “We need to teach our children not only on Sundays, but we need to show them the reciting of the Qur’an and the whole of Islam.”
Lynchburg is a city swarming with such places of worship for all religions. Dr. Edward Smither, professor of intercultural studies at Liberty University, is a Christian whose belief system is rooted in biblical principles. The command in Matthew 28:18-20, which commands all Christians to tells others about Jesus Christ, is one to which Smither holds tightly. That passage is commonly referred to as the Great Commission.
Reaching out to the Muslim community in Lynchburg is a passion of Smither’s. When Smither learned of the mosque, he immediately sent a personalized letter to Ahmad and the GLIA, welcoming them. His extension of friendship paved the way for acceptance.
“When I first heard about the mosque in Lynchburg I was concerned about how they would be received,” Smither said. “Having lived in North Africa and loving Muslims, I wanted one of the first things they heard to be welcoming. So I wrote a note telling them I was thankful to God they were in the community.”
Receiving a positive response from the Lynchburg community as a whole, including other religious communities, was encouraging to Ahmad. Building relationships is important to the GLIA as they keep open doors to everyone, offering many opportunities to connect with local churches and synagogues for dialogue about their differing religions.
“We are very open to the community and with the other religions. All faiths should come together to make acquaintances and to learn and share problems together,” Ahmad said. “This is the main idea with all three major religions (Christianity, Judaism and Islam) — that we fellowship together, always in peace.”
The mosque serves as a place for any Muslim to fellowship and remain faithful to their prayers to Allah in the midst of their busy schedules.
GLIA decided to create this mosque to have a place to practice their beliefs collectively. This was most important for the Jumah prayers (Friday prayers) and the Isha (the last evening prayer of the day). Having five prayer times per day, the congregation strives to join others at the mosque specifically for these prayers, Ahmad said.
“A mosque is just like the church — families come together in fellowship for prayers,” Ahmad said.
Smither uses this time as an opportunity to meet other Muslims in the area and to observe how they practice their own religion. As a professor of Introduction to Islam, Smither also works with Ahmad to present an opportunity for his students to attend Friday prayers once in the semester. The purpose of this field trip is to observe and continue their education through first-hand experience.
“In seeking to make disciples of all nations, it is imperative that we understand the worldview and beliefs of those whom God has called us to reach,” Smither said. “This involves moving toward them, building friendship and trust, and learning first-hand what they believe.”
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Mosque in New York: Religious Freedom or Political Statement?
Pastor Terry Jones projected his strong anti-Muslim feelings to the American people after his rant against the Quran when he pleaded with others to join in turning its pages to ashes. This anti-book battle cry stems from the outrage he felt after hearing a mosque would be built near ground zero. American Muslims and Christians alike pursued efforts to halt Jones’ proposition to burn copies of the Quran on Sept. 11.
Jones responded in outrage instead of Christian love when he told CNN that burning the Quran would be a necessary step to speak out against the Muslim community.
While it is questionable to construct a Muslim community center so close to the site of the Sept. 11 tragedy, Jones’ reaction surpassed simply expressing his opinion and went into kamikaze outrage.
“As a pastor and as Christians, we are held to a higher standard and just because Jones was mad about the mosque at ground zero, his reaction should not have been to burn the Quran but to pray for those Muslims,” missionaries working in a Muslim nation said.
Naming the Quran as a book “full of lies” and Islam as being “from the devil,” Jones made his radical decision to burn what he claims to be an unholy book. Later, Jones agreed to stand down from his Sept. 11 book burnings but did not guarantee to withhold his fury from the Quran in the future, according to CNN.
“As Islam pervades all of a Muslim’s life and is more than a mere religious affiliation, to attack Islam, Muhammad or the Quran is to attack a Muslim friend,” professor of Islamic studies at Liberty and 10-year Middle Eastern resident Edward Smither said. “If Rev. Jones has any missionary motivation, which I’m doubtful that he does, he has succeeded in losing his audience before ever having the chance to share the gospel.”
All Sept. 11 victims whose hearts were ripped to pieces after seeing heavy clouds of black smoke rise to the sky and loved ones massacred, want to see this building moved and not desecrating the sacred area. Furthering their despair, the mosque was originally proposed to open on an anniversary of the terror attacks, which serves as a slap in the face to the American people.
Two-thirds of New York citizens, including those claiming to be in favor of the new mosque want for this project not to perish but moved to a new location, according to a poll printed in the New York Times.
Still, it is hard to separate politics and religion as they bleed together, creating controversy. The U.S. Constitution gives the Muslim community, which consists of about 600,000 people in New York, the right to build a mosque just as much as any Baptist or Pentecostal can build a church. However, the decision to do so in a place that holds haunting memories courtesy of radical Muslims in the name of Allah creates more tension than peace for many Americans.
“Religious freedom is a cherished American value that extends to ‘Mayflower pilgrims’ and to the millions of Muslims that have immigrated to the U.S. for centuries prior to Sept. 11,” Smither said. “Most Muslims I know have endeavored to distance themselves and Islam from the events of Sept. 11; so I am a bit surprised that a Muslim community would want to build a mosque at ground zero — an act that would seem to perpetuate horrible memories.”
It is true that the Muslim community, as citizens of the United States, have every right to build their mosque. However, the timing and location could not be any worse. If these Muslims are sincerely peace-seeking, they should work with New York City to find a mutually beneficial compromise. If they do not, they will leave many Americans, however misguided, “Jones-ing” for an ole fashion book burning.
Jones responded in outrage instead of Christian love when he told CNN that burning the Quran would be a necessary step to speak out against the Muslim community.
While it is questionable to construct a Muslim community center so close to the site of the Sept. 11 tragedy, Jones’ reaction surpassed simply expressing his opinion and went into kamikaze outrage.
“As a pastor and as Christians, we are held to a higher standard and just because Jones was mad about the mosque at ground zero, his reaction should not have been to burn the Quran but to pray for those Muslims,” missionaries working in a Muslim nation said.
Naming the Quran as a book “full of lies” and Islam as being “from the devil,” Jones made his radical decision to burn what he claims to be an unholy book. Later, Jones agreed to stand down from his Sept. 11 book burnings but did not guarantee to withhold his fury from the Quran in the future, according to CNN.
“As Islam pervades all of a Muslim’s life and is more than a mere religious affiliation, to attack Islam, Muhammad or the Quran is to attack a Muslim friend,” professor of Islamic studies at Liberty and 10-year Middle Eastern resident Edward Smither said. “If Rev. Jones has any missionary motivation, which I’m doubtful that he does, he has succeeded in losing his audience before ever having the chance to share the gospel.”
All Sept. 11 victims whose hearts were ripped to pieces after seeing heavy clouds of black smoke rise to the sky and loved ones massacred, want to see this building moved and not desecrating the sacred area. Furthering their despair, the mosque was originally proposed to open on an anniversary of the terror attacks, which serves as a slap in the face to the American people.
Two-thirds of New York citizens, including those claiming to be in favor of the new mosque want for this project not to perish but moved to a new location, according to a poll printed in the New York Times.
Still, it is hard to separate politics and religion as they bleed together, creating controversy. The U.S. Constitution gives the Muslim community, which consists of about 600,000 people in New York, the right to build a mosque just as much as any Baptist or Pentecostal can build a church. However, the decision to do so in a place that holds haunting memories courtesy of radical Muslims in the name of Allah creates more tension than peace for many Americans.
“Religious freedom is a cherished American value that extends to ‘Mayflower pilgrims’ and to the millions of Muslims that have immigrated to the U.S. for centuries prior to Sept. 11,” Smither said. “Most Muslims I know have endeavored to distance themselves and Islam from the events of Sept. 11; so I am a bit surprised that a Muslim community would want to build a mosque at ground zero — an act that would seem to perpetuate horrible memories.”
It is true that the Muslim community, as citizens of the United States, have every right to build their mosque. However, the timing and location could not be any worse. If these Muslims are sincerely peace-seeking, they should work with New York City to find a mutually beneficial compromise. If they do not, they will leave many Americans, however misguided, “Jones-ing” for an ole fashion book burning.
Monday, March 1, 2010
A common death to women: breast cancer
Silence filled the room and all that could be heard was the thick tapping of her toe to the tile as she anxiously awaited the news. Five years prior, she was dragging her feet into the doctor’s office getting ready for yet one more agonizing surgery. But this time she had a good feeling; she was going to be okay and the results would be different.
After dealing with numerous years of battling breast cancer, Debbie Young, 57, was feeling hopeless and ready to give up. Her last surgery was supposed to be the final one to bring Young to a place of recovery.Her family, friends and faith in God kept her strong and helped her reach a point stage of contentment daily.
When the doctor entered the examination room carrying her wood clipboard, Young finally received the exciting news that she was now designated as a breast cancer survivor. The 5-year “safety net” following her las surgery had passed and Young reached a point of recession. She could now continue on with a sense of confidence. The hope she held onto at last proved itself.
“Hope is the substance that will turn each patient into a survivor,” Young said.
In the United States alone, there are more than 2.3 million women currently living with breast cancer or have survived breast cancer. Even though this is a substantial amount of women, there is still an estimated 40,460 that would have died from breast cancer in 2007, according to National Cancer Institute.
Approximately 24,113 people in Virginia are currently diagnosed with breast cancer. Chesterfield, Arlington, Thomas Jefferson and Fairfax are among the top counties with these cancer patients, according to Virginia Department of Health.
With numbers this high, appropriate medical attention is imperative. These formidable numbers also prove the importance of yearly self examinations. Medical centers all over the nation provide services to perform such tests.
“The best way to prevent any disease is to be informed, know your health risks and be an advocate for your own health,” Page Pace, board member on the Greater Roanoke Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure said. “For women, this is an annual mammogram at the recommended age and the commitment to do breast self-exams each month.”
Survival rates for women diagnosed with breast cancer sky rocket when they are diagnosed at an early stage than when they are at a more distant stage with cancer spreading to organs. Because there is a 1-in-8 chance that a woman will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at some stage in her life, these standard tests such as yearly mammograms are vital to survival and early detection, according to Virginia Department of Health.
Within the 66.5 percent of women at the prime age of 40 to 49 to receive a mammogram in 2006, approximately 78 percent were insured. This leaves a substantial group of 48 percent receiving mammograms uninsured, according to the Virginia Cancer Registry at Virginia Department of Health.
The National Organization of Susan G. Komen for the Cure shows that fear of results, not having any family history of cancer and self image beliefs are prime factors halting women from having these screenings. Although, the greatest reason women today do not pursue these tests is due to affordability.
“It is important for all women to take steps toward a healthy lifestyle and practice preventive care,” Pace said.
Frequent screening and tests are a giant step toward preventing severe medical problems such as breast cancer. Without proper health insurance and the finances needed for these test, many women fall short in doing what they can in order to prevent such diseases.
For women who fall into the category of low annual income or lack health insurance, some programs are available to help. Virginia’s Department of Health offers such programs including the group, Every Woman’s Life. Adult women are able to apply to the program to receive help with free screening tests and examinations.
Breast cancer is a disease that takes many lives each year. Staying informed, getting annual screenings and exams and remaining aware are prime precautionary methods that medical officials suggest all women take.
After dealing with numerous years of battling breast cancer, Debbie Young, 57, was feeling hopeless and ready to give up. Her last surgery was supposed to be the final one to bring Young to a place of recovery.Her family, friends and faith in God kept her strong and helped her reach a point stage of contentment daily.
When the doctor entered the examination room carrying her wood clipboard, Young finally received the exciting news that she was now designated as a breast cancer survivor. The 5-year “safety net” following her las surgery had passed and Young reached a point of recession. She could now continue on with a sense of confidence. The hope she held onto at last proved itself.
“Hope is the substance that will turn each patient into a survivor,” Young said.
In the United States alone, there are more than 2.3 million women currently living with breast cancer or have survived breast cancer. Even though this is a substantial amount of women, there is still an estimated 40,460 that would have died from breast cancer in 2007, according to National Cancer Institute.
Approximately 24,113 people in Virginia are currently diagnosed with breast cancer. Chesterfield, Arlington, Thomas Jefferson and Fairfax are among the top counties with these cancer patients, according to Virginia Department of Health.
With numbers this high, appropriate medical attention is imperative. These formidable numbers also prove the importance of yearly self examinations. Medical centers all over the nation provide services to perform such tests.
“The best way to prevent any disease is to be informed, know your health risks and be an advocate for your own health,” Page Pace, board member on the Greater Roanoke Valley Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure said. “For women, this is an annual mammogram at the recommended age and the commitment to do breast self-exams each month.”
Survival rates for women diagnosed with breast cancer sky rocket when they are diagnosed at an early stage than when they are at a more distant stage with cancer spreading to organs. Because there is a 1-in-8 chance that a woman will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at some stage in her life, these standard tests such as yearly mammograms are vital to survival and early detection, according to Virginia Department of Health.
Within the 66.5 percent of women at the prime age of 40 to 49 to receive a mammogram in 2006, approximately 78 percent were insured. This leaves a substantial group of 48 percent receiving mammograms uninsured, according to the Virginia Cancer Registry at Virginia Department of Health.
The National Organization of Susan G. Komen for the Cure shows that fear of results, not having any family history of cancer and self image beliefs are prime factors halting women from having these screenings. Although, the greatest reason women today do not pursue these tests is due to affordability.
“It is important for all women to take steps toward a healthy lifestyle and practice preventive care,” Pace said.
Frequent screening and tests are a giant step toward preventing severe medical problems such as breast cancer. Without proper health insurance and the finances needed for these test, many women fall short in doing what they can in order to prevent such diseases.
For women who fall into the category of low annual income or lack health insurance, some programs are available to help. Virginia’s Department of Health offers such programs including the group, Every Woman’s Life. Adult women are able to apply to the program to receive help with free screening tests and examinations.
Breast cancer is a disease that takes many lives each year. Staying informed, getting annual screenings and exams and remaining aware are prime precautionary methods that medical officials suggest all women take.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
A Genocide Brought to Life
LYNCHBURG, Va.-A heavy silence filled the room as students stared at the screen, absorbing the horrific bloodshed and fiery violence on display before them. Smile4Africa presented the showing of "Hotel Rwanda" as a way to help raise awareness of the difficulties Africa has faced and is still facing today. This also acted as a fundraiser for student going on a mission trip to Zimbabwe.
Nearly 100 students gathered at Liberty University's campus in DeMoss 1090 Friday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. Free admission was given to any person wishing to come to the even, but popcorn and sodas for on sale for 50 cents each to help raise money. The main purpose of the event was to raise awareness in Africa, but also to raise money as they were accepting donations for their cause.
The evening began with Director of International Ministries and World Help, Cyres Mad-Bondo giving an introduction to the movie and the genocide that ended in 1994. He gave some of his own testimonies of time spent in Rwanda while also telling students Africa was in need of people willing to help and make a difference.
Many eyes became misty at the sight of the genocide as the movie progressed. Students were brought to a greater awareness of the difficulties other nations face as compared to luxuries many Americans indulge in today.
"The movie was so powerful and opened my eyes making me realize how good I have it here in America living without fear," sophomore Trudy Mohammed said. "It made me see that it is so important for believers to show Christ's love to the world because there are people hurting, and all they need is someone to love and care for them the way Christ loves us."
All proceeds from the event went toward the Summer 2009 trip to Zimbabwe where four students will be sharing their faith with children and families. Smile4Africa has a base in Zimbabwe where students will be working to help needs such as HIV/AIDs, cholera and building orphanages, according to Tayo Rockson, fundraising and marketing director for Smile4Africa.
Other than donations that were given, the group was also selling T-shirts for $10. Freshmen Amber Turner, Adina Garcia and Denise Cosom all volunteered to help sell the shirts after the event.
"I went on a mission trip to South Africa and have always had an interest in missions. When I got back from my trip I wanted to do whatever I could to become involved and help," sophomore Emily Gardner said.
After the movie came to its conclusion, Rockson ended the evening with an inspirational and passionate challenge for students to make a difference. He encouraged students to take the anger sparked from the movie and use it to go into the world and be the one to help. he prompted them to be imitators of Christ and open their minds to fight atrocities and to be the ones to spark a revolution.
The organization Smile4Africa is in existence to support Africans and help spread the concern to others. Their goal is to share the love of Christ through different means such as education and health care. They hope to provide more employment opportunities to those in Africa so that they may provide for their people on their own. Ultimately their mission is to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ, according to founder and president Albert MaVunga.
"Our goal is to provide for the physical and spiritual needs of the people in Africa. We want to make it a double-header with the spiritual and physical aspects," MaVunga said. "We do not only want to teach them how to fish, but we also want to give them a lake to fish in."
Nearly 100 students gathered at Liberty University's campus in DeMoss 1090 Friday, Feb. 6 at 7:30 p.m. Free admission was given to any person wishing to come to the even, but popcorn and sodas for on sale for 50 cents each to help raise money. The main purpose of the event was to raise awareness in Africa, but also to raise money as they were accepting donations for their cause.
The evening began with Director of International Ministries and World Help, Cyres Mad-Bondo giving an introduction to the movie and the genocide that ended in 1994. He gave some of his own testimonies of time spent in Rwanda while also telling students Africa was in need of people willing to help and make a difference.
Many eyes became misty at the sight of the genocide as the movie progressed. Students were brought to a greater awareness of the difficulties other nations face as compared to luxuries many Americans indulge in today.
"The movie was so powerful and opened my eyes making me realize how good I have it here in America living without fear," sophomore Trudy Mohammed said. "It made me see that it is so important for believers to show Christ's love to the world because there are people hurting, and all they need is someone to love and care for them the way Christ loves us."
All proceeds from the event went toward the Summer 2009 trip to Zimbabwe where four students will be sharing their faith with children and families. Smile4Africa has a base in Zimbabwe where students will be working to help needs such as HIV/AIDs, cholera and building orphanages, according to Tayo Rockson, fundraising and marketing director for Smile4Africa.
Other than donations that were given, the group was also selling T-shirts for $10. Freshmen Amber Turner, Adina Garcia and Denise Cosom all volunteered to help sell the shirts after the event.
"I went on a mission trip to South Africa and have always had an interest in missions. When I got back from my trip I wanted to do whatever I could to become involved and help," sophomore Emily Gardner said.
After the movie came to its conclusion, Rockson ended the evening with an inspirational and passionate challenge for students to make a difference. He encouraged students to take the anger sparked from the movie and use it to go into the world and be the one to help. he prompted them to be imitators of Christ and open their minds to fight atrocities and to be the ones to spark a revolution.
The organization Smile4Africa is in existence to support Africans and help spread the concern to others. Their goal is to share the love of Christ through different means such as education and health care. They hope to provide more employment opportunities to those in Africa so that they may provide for their people on their own. Ultimately their mission is to share the love and grace of Jesus Christ, according to founder and president Albert MaVunga.
"Our goal is to provide for the physical and spiritual needs of the people in Africa. We want to make it a double-header with the spiritual and physical aspects," MaVunga said. "We do not only want to teach them how to fish, but we also want to give them a lake to fish in."
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Sold Out: From Music to Politics
As he was driving down the Virginia highway in his pick up truck, listening to K92, a song of passion blared from the stereo and struck a chord in his heart. After the song, “My Favorite Dream” by artist Tanner Blankenship finished playing, this middle-aged man continued listening with tears streaming down his face.
Once the song came to its end, Blankenship was asked to discuss his inspiration to write such a song. After the horrific shootings at Virginia Tech (VT) in April 2007, he began forming lyrics to this song. Growing up in the nearby area of Dublin, Va., this tragic news hit home with Blankenship, and he wanted to dedicate his newly produced song to the families and victims of the VT shootings.
He continued to mention how God was his ultimate inspiration for all of his music. Although he did not spend the entire interview talking about God, he did hit on it for a few moments. As Blankenship was speaking, the man in the truck was touched by what he had said.
The next day Blankenship received a e-mail from the man explaining that he felt God while he was talking and felt led to turn his life around. Blankenship uses his music ministry with the purpose of glorifying his Lord.
“My greatest desire is to be with you. So take me as I am, I am yours. And though I’m just a man I’ll give what I have,” Blankenship’s lyrics to his song “As I Am” said. “And though I’m helplessly and worthlessly, and nothing on my own, you love me. You can use me Lord.”
These lyrics portray his constant desire to be used by God and give all he has to him. Blankenship has been involved with music ever since he can remember, starting with doing worship at his church, Pulaski Church of God, and first learning to play guitar around 9 or 10 years old.
His 10-song CD consists of songs about helping hurting people, hope and the loving grace of God. Initially Blakenship didn’t intend to create a c.d., but after about a year he realized he had written enough songs to create one. So he produced his CD “Fallen” in his home studio named Follow Hard.
“I love the song “Ocean” because I just think it is a good song and it’s the most fun to play. Although I would have to say the one that meant the most was “Fallen” Blankenship said.
The song came to him suddenly one morning as he woke up. It was at a time in his life where, even though he became a Christian at a young age, he had gotten into some things he was not proud of. Blankenship said he was living in the world and did not care about people or God because he was living selfishly. He was sick of his worldly lifestyle and had reached the end of his rope, according to Blankenship.
“I wanted a change in my life so much and it’s probably one of the most remarkable songs I have ever written because it just popped in my head instantly one morning,” Blankenship said. “I wrote the whole song in 10 minutes, and it turned out to be a great one about how God had never left me.”
Blankenship has since has the opportunity to share his songs with diverse audiences. December Radio, Casting Crowns and Sarah Reeves are a couple known artists he has performed alongside. His CD, “Fallen,” is available for $10 at his shows or by contacting him at followhard@verizon.net.
Ranging from Autumn Fest to Camp Jeep, where Tim McGraw also played and there were thousands in attendance, Blankenship has also performed at local bowling alleys, coffee shops and churches. He even performed at a Liberty open mic night.
Graduating with a degree in Advertising/Public Relations from Liberty in December 2008, he also received an associate degree in education from New River Community College. Blankenship is currently taking online courses at Biola University to receive his master’s in Christian apologetics, while also working as a teacher’s assistant at Pulaski Middle School.
It was not his initial plan to pursue a degree in Advertising/Public Relations, but after taking some Visual Communication (VCAR) classes and talking with others, Blankenship felt God guiding him in that direction. He has used what he learned from this degree to aid in advertising different things and to promote his music.
Using this degree, he has worked on web design and has developed his own site for his ministry, followhard.com. Here he displays articles he has written on music, faith and politics.
Blankenship’s interest in advertising also led for him to complete advertising work for The Patriot, Pulaski County paper with a circulation of 4,000 readers. Through volunteering he was able to write articles the editors assigned to him, which eventually led to his interest in writing about faith-based and political topics.
“I learned it’s important to volunteer places for a while because that can always lead to something else. I always encourage people to put their foot in the door with volunteering,” Blankenship said.
With his interest in politics, which Blankenship says may have come from being at Liberty, and music ministry he hopes to spend the rest of his life making a difference in some way. As he is pursuing his Master’s in Christian apologetics, he says he would love to be part of starting a church or possibly going into politics.
Standing up for his faith and being involved in political issues that he has a strong voice in, such as abortion, is important to Blankenship. He would love to possibly incorporate this into his music ministry and write songs that speak of such issues.
“It’s so hard to tell what I will be doing years from now, but I want to be making a big difference in whatever I am doing. If I could do something with music or politics I would be happy as long as I am impacting someone’s life,” Blankenship said. “I can do that with anything I’m doing, but my heart is making a difference and ministering to people.”
Once the song came to its end, Blankenship was asked to discuss his inspiration to write such a song. After the horrific shootings at Virginia Tech (VT) in April 2007, he began forming lyrics to this song. Growing up in the nearby area of Dublin, Va., this tragic news hit home with Blankenship, and he wanted to dedicate his newly produced song to the families and victims of the VT shootings.
He continued to mention how God was his ultimate inspiration for all of his music. Although he did not spend the entire interview talking about God, he did hit on it for a few moments. As Blankenship was speaking, the man in the truck was touched by what he had said.
The next day Blankenship received a e-mail from the man explaining that he felt God while he was talking and felt led to turn his life around. Blankenship uses his music ministry with the purpose of glorifying his Lord.
“My greatest desire is to be with you. So take me as I am, I am yours. And though I’m just a man I’ll give what I have,” Blankenship’s lyrics to his song “As I Am” said. “And though I’m helplessly and worthlessly, and nothing on my own, you love me. You can use me Lord.”
These lyrics portray his constant desire to be used by God and give all he has to him. Blankenship has been involved with music ever since he can remember, starting with doing worship at his church, Pulaski Church of God, and first learning to play guitar around 9 or 10 years old.
His 10-song CD consists of songs about helping hurting people, hope and the loving grace of God. Initially Blakenship didn’t intend to create a c.d., but after about a year he realized he had written enough songs to create one. So he produced his CD “Fallen” in his home studio named Follow Hard.
“I love the song “Ocean” because I just think it is a good song and it’s the most fun to play. Although I would have to say the one that meant the most was “Fallen” Blankenship said.
The song came to him suddenly one morning as he woke up. It was at a time in his life where, even though he became a Christian at a young age, he had gotten into some things he was not proud of. Blankenship said he was living in the world and did not care about people or God because he was living selfishly. He was sick of his worldly lifestyle and had reached the end of his rope, according to Blankenship.
“I wanted a change in my life so much and it’s probably one of the most remarkable songs I have ever written because it just popped in my head instantly one morning,” Blankenship said. “I wrote the whole song in 10 minutes, and it turned out to be a great one about how God had never left me.”
Blankenship has since has the opportunity to share his songs with diverse audiences. December Radio, Casting Crowns and Sarah Reeves are a couple known artists he has performed alongside. His CD, “Fallen,” is available for $10 at his shows or by contacting him at followhard@verizon.net.
Ranging from Autumn Fest to Camp Jeep, where Tim McGraw also played and there were thousands in attendance, Blankenship has also performed at local bowling alleys, coffee shops and churches. He even performed at a Liberty open mic night.
Graduating with a degree in Advertising/Public Relations from Liberty in December 2008, he also received an associate degree in education from New River Community College. Blankenship is currently taking online courses at Biola University to receive his master’s in Christian apologetics, while also working as a teacher’s assistant at Pulaski Middle School.
It was not his initial plan to pursue a degree in Advertising/Public Relations, but after taking some Visual Communication (VCAR) classes and talking with others, Blankenship felt God guiding him in that direction. He has used what he learned from this degree to aid in advertising different things and to promote his music.
Using this degree, he has worked on web design and has developed his own site for his ministry, followhard.com. Here he displays articles he has written on music, faith and politics.
Blankenship’s interest in advertising also led for him to complete advertising work for The Patriot, Pulaski County paper with a circulation of 4,000 readers. Through volunteering he was able to write articles the editors assigned to him, which eventually led to his interest in writing about faith-based and political topics.
“I learned it’s important to volunteer places for a while because that can always lead to something else. I always encourage people to put their foot in the door with volunteering,” Blankenship said.
With his interest in politics, which Blankenship says may have come from being at Liberty, and music ministry he hopes to spend the rest of his life making a difference in some way. As he is pursuing his Master’s in Christian apologetics, he says he would love to be part of starting a church or possibly going into politics.
Standing up for his faith and being involved in political issues that he has a strong voice in, such as abortion, is important to Blankenship. He would love to possibly incorporate this into his music ministry and write songs that speak of such issues.
“It’s so hard to tell what I will be doing years from now, but I want to be making a big difference in whatever I am doing. If I could do something with music or politics I would be happy as long as I am impacting someone’s life,” Blankenship said. “I can do that with anything I’m doing, but my heart is making a difference and ministering to people.”
Monday, October 5, 2009
A Delayed Heart for Russia
The last place she ever wanted to be was the grey skied streets of Russia where the people walked without a single smile running across their faces. She didn’t care to support the country from home, she didn’t even care to help send other people, but she was determined that the very last decision she would ever make was to pick up and move to Moscow.
Sonnet Barr left for a short term mission trip to Moscow in 1995 after being invited by her pastor, Ron Carter and his wife Pam. She had been working with both the worship and women’s ministry’s at her church, First Christian Church in Nappa, Calif., when Ron asked her to accompany their group to Russia where they would team with Alliance for Saturation Church Planting in Eastern Europe.
They would be encouraging the missionaries and view the ministry of their church planting and process. Pam and Barr would also serve by leading worship for the times of ministry where Ron would speak messages of encouragement.
Initially Barr jumped at the chance to go out of the country to a new place and minister with people she loved. Although after arriving in Moscow, she rapidly realized the difficulty of ministering to women in this area. By the time the trip came to its close, she found herself sobbing as the plane took off to return home promising she would never come back to such a dismal place.
“I am a very joy filled person, but there was no joy in Moscow. It could have been the same way in New York City, I had no idea, but I knew there was no joy here,” Barr said. “I didn’t know people could be so downcast and I could almost feel that sense of oppression everywhere I went. No one ever smiled or engaged us at all; there was no lightness or joy, anywhere.”
When Barr returned from Moscow she continued her job of 10 years as a regional sales manager at Bluecross of California. She had no desire to remain there and felt as if an angel was holding her arms and legs to the chair during their regional meeting. When Mark Wineberg, senior vice president, entered their meeting wearing a ‘Life’s Hard, Pray Harder’ t-shirt, she knew God was showing her that the company would still be in good hands without her. Barr knew she was released to leave.
“I’ve always viewed everything I do as God’s ministry for my life and tried to minister to whoever crossed my path. This was a relief to know this company would be in good hands and I could move out to wherever God wanted me to go,” Barr said.
She quit her job in July 1995 and immediately enrolled at Columbia Bible College where she graduated with a Bible certificate in 1996. Once she received her certificate she went to work as acting Vice President of Financial Development at United World Mission. At this point she enjoyed her job supporting missionaries but still was not interested in returning to Moscow.
In 1997 she was married to her husband Jon. Two years after their wedding he leaned over one night to tell his wife that God was calling them back to Moscow. She responded in her best submissive wife tone by telling her husband that if God wanted her to go to Russia, then he will tell her because she had no intentions of ever returning to that sullen place.
Later she went to her husband to agree that God had made it clear to her that they were to return. So in June 2001 they arrived to their new home in Moscow and have been there ministering to the people for 10 years.
The first camp they led was two weeks after they arrived, where they were in charge of the American team that was coming. A missionary friend was there with one Russian student to lead working with the Russian linguistics. Spontaneously this missionary friend had a stroke and was evacuated to Finland for immediate medical care. This left Jon and Sonnet four days before the camp, knowing little Russian to lead with.
At this point it was the worst and the best news they received. They now had no doubt in their minds that they were doing the right thing and their dependancy on God had never been stronger.
Now this couple has developed an English Exchange where they work as the native speaker component of a foreign language program in a Russian university. In this former communist country evangelism is a challenge, but Jon and Sonnet use their ministry to teach English to their Russian students in hopes of sharing God with them.
Their ministry is dependent upon building relationships of trust and respect. People in this country want to learn English because it is the language of business, travel and the Internet. Through teaching the language and building relationships with the students, this leads to opportunities to share who they are with each other and explain what makes them different.
“It’s not even about the message so much anymore, it’s about the life and the walk of the messenger. Building relationships is what will get your message heard,” Barr said.
The university required them to agree to not openly talk about God in a group setting. Out of respect to these officials, they agreed but still make opportunities to talk individually with their students about God. The English Exchange has invited students to come work at their camps every winter and summer. Those that come are there to help teach english, sing and perform with music and build relationships.
“It’s different from any other kind of mission trip. It’s not street evangelism, we are doing short term stuff to help them in their long term ministry,” Hannah Morrett, sophomore said. “We go to camp and sing songs and do stuff we would normally do with different people around the world. It helps people realize they can be themselves with all people and it’s even great for those who are not going into full time ministry.”
Coming from a relational standpoint is the best strategy they can use in that culture. In the past missionaries would come to evangelize in Russia and then immediately leave, so the Russian people have become resistant to missionaries. From a cultural standpoint, building relationships are the best way to reach these people because Russia is a relational country, according to Morrett.
Many opportunities are available around the world for Liberty students to get involved in missions. Various missionaries came to the campus Sept. 21 to Sept. 23 to talk with students and share their ministries during this fall semester’s Missions Emphasis Week. Barr is one of the missionaries that came to share with the student body and offer opportunities for the students to get involved in their ministry to Moscow, a place of 16 million people.
This year’s trips to the English Exchange in Moscow will be Dec. 29 to Jan. 8, June 23 to July 8 and July 28 to Aug. 12. For more information visit www.the-exchange.org or contact Jon and Sonnet Barr at TheExchangeRU@cs.com.
Sonnet Barr left for a short term mission trip to Moscow in 1995 after being invited by her pastor, Ron Carter and his wife Pam. She had been working with both the worship and women’s ministry’s at her church, First Christian Church in Nappa, Calif., when Ron asked her to accompany their group to Russia where they would team with Alliance for Saturation Church Planting in Eastern Europe.
They would be encouraging the missionaries and view the ministry of their church planting and process. Pam and Barr would also serve by leading worship for the times of ministry where Ron would speak messages of encouragement.
Initially Barr jumped at the chance to go out of the country to a new place and minister with people she loved. Although after arriving in Moscow, she rapidly realized the difficulty of ministering to women in this area. By the time the trip came to its close, she found herself sobbing as the plane took off to return home promising she would never come back to such a dismal place.
“I am a very joy filled person, but there was no joy in Moscow. It could have been the same way in New York City, I had no idea, but I knew there was no joy here,” Barr said. “I didn’t know people could be so downcast and I could almost feel that sense of oppression everywhere I went. No one ever smiled or engaged us at all; there was no lightness or joy, anywhere.”
When Barr returned from Moscow she continued her job of 10 years as a regional sales manager at Bluecross of California. She had no desire to remain there and felt as if an angel was holding her arms and legs to the chair during their regional meeting. When Mark Wineberg, senior vice president, entered their meeting wearing a ‘Life’s Hard, Pray Harder’ t-shirt, she knew God was showing her that the company would still be in good hands without her. Barr knew she was released to leave.
“I’ve always viewed everything I do as God’s ministry for my life and tried to minister to whoever crossed my path. This was a relief to know this company would be in good hands and I could move out to wherever God wanted me to go,” Barr said.
She quit her job in July 1995 and immediately enrolled at Columbia Bible College where she graduated with a Bible certificate in 1996. Once she received her certificate she went to work as acting Vice President of Financial Development at United World Mission. At this point she enjoyed her job supporting missionaries but still was not interested in returning to Moscow.
In 1997 she was married to her husband Jon. Two years after their wedding he leaned over one night to tell his wife that God was calling them back to Moscow. She responded in her best submissive wife tone by telling her husband that if God wanted her to go to Russia, then he will tell her because she had no intentions of ever returning to that sullen place.
Later she went to her husband to agree that God had made it clear to her that they were to return. So in June 2001 they arrived to their new home in Moscow and have been there ministering to the people for 10 years.
The first camp they led was two weeks after they arrived, where they were in charge of the American team that was coming. A missionary friend was there with one Russian student to lead working with the Russian linguistics. Spontaneously this missionary friend had a stroke and was evacuated to Finland for immediate medical care. This left Jon and Sonnet four days before the camp, knowing little Russian to lead with.
At this point it was the worst and the best news they received. They now had no doubt in their minds that they were doing the right thing and their dependancy on God had never been stronger.
Now this couple has developed an English Exchange where they work as the native speaker component of a foreign language program in a Russian university. In this former communist country evangelism is a challenge, but Jon and Sonnet use their ministry to teach English to their Russian students in hopes of sharing God with them.
Their ministry is dependent upon building relationships of trust and respect. People in this country want to learn English because it is the language of business, travel and the Internet. Through teaching the language and building relationships with the students, this leads to opportunities to share who they are with each other and explain what makes them different.
“It’s not even about the message so much anymore, it’s about the life and the walk of the messenger. Building relationships is what will get your message heard,” Barr said.
The university required them to agree to not openly talk about God in a group setting. Out of respect to these officials, they agreed but still make opportunities to talk individually with their students about God. The English Exchange has invited students to come work at their camps every winter and summer. Those that come are there to help teach english, sing and perform with music and build relationships.
“It’s different from any other kind of mission trip. It’s not street evangelism, we are doing short term stuff to help them in their long term ministry,” Hannah Morrett, sophomore said. “We go to camp and sing songs and do stuff we would normally do with different people around the world. It helps people realize they can be themselves with all people and it’s even great for those who are not going into full time ministry.”
Coming from a relational standpoint is the best strategy they can use in that culture. In the past missionaries would come to evangelize in Russia and then immediately leave, so the Russian people have become resistant to missionaries. From a cultural standpoint, building relationships are the best way to reach these people because Russia is a relational country, according to Morrett.
Many opportunities are available around the world for Liberty students to get involved in missions. Various missionaries came to the campus Sept. 21 to Sept. 23 to talk with students and share their ministries during this fall semester’s Missions Emphasis Week. Barr is one of the missionaries that came to share with the student body and offer opportunities for the students to get involved in their ministry to Moscow, a place of 16 million people.
This year’s trips to the English Exchange in Moscow will be Dec. 29 to Jan. 8, June 23 to July 8 and July 28 to Aug. 12. For more information visit www.the-exchange.org or contact Jon and Sonnet Barr at TheExchangeRU@cs.com.
Friday, May 29, 2009
An Unintentional Consequence
NEW YORK, May 26, 2009—Following the rules is never something she is very good at. The owner of the Herald Towers Apartments considers her to be a famous face around the city and opens a room for her whenever she is visiting. Enjoying the celebrity treatment she receives, she doesn’t think the rules of the building apply to her.
Herald Towers Security Guard, Sean Zanders says that he remembers this particular lady who gives the security team something to deal with. Zanders is sitting with a strong posture at the front desk, in his maroon coat with gold buttons. He plans on having a quiet, uneventful evening when he sees the woman outside on the street.
This time she is standing outside the thick glass doors peering inside to plan sneaking past Zanders. She hesitates for a moment contemplating if he has already seen her white furry creature, but after a few moments she pulls open the door and begins to walk in.
“She doesn’t normally obey the rules of the building, but it’s nothing new around here,” Zanders said.
She pulls open the second door and without paying any attention to the poodle yapping behind her, the door quickly closes trapping the helpless animal. This oblivious woman continues yanking the leash to drag the dog beside her, while each time smashing her pet’s head into the glass.
After a few minutes, the woman realizes the door is blocking her poodle. She turns around to liberate it and walks past the security counter acting as if nothing unusual just happened.
“Well I figured at that point there was no form of consequence I should give her. I simply was astonished by what I had just seen,” Zanders said. “I guess she received the consequence on her own, or at least her dog did.”
Herald Towers Security Guard, Sean Zanders says that he remembers this particular lady who gives the security team something to deal with. Zanders is sitting with a strong posture at the front desk, in his maroon coat with gold buttons. He plans on having a quiet, uneventful evening when he sees the woman outside on the street.
This time she is standing outside the thick glass doors peering inside to plan sneaking past Zanders. She hesitates for a moment contemplating if he has already seen her white furry creature, but after a few moments she pulls open the door and begins to walk in.
“She doesn’t normally obey the rules of the building, but it’s nothing new around here,” Zanders said.
She pulls open the second door and without paying any attention to the poodle yapping behind her, the door quickly closes trapping the helpless animal. This oblivious woman continues yanking the leash to drag the dog beside her, while each time smashing her pet’s head into the glass.
After a few minutes, the woman realizes the door is blocking her poodle. She turns around to liberate it and walks past the security counter acting as if nothing unusual just happened.
“Well I figured at that point there was no form of consequence I should give her. I simply was astonished by what I had just seen,” Zanders said. “I guess she received the consequence on her own, or at least her dog did.”
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