The issues of sexuality and gender have become increasingly complex and complicated topics to discuss in today’s society, and even more so for Christians.
A new Oklahoma Christian University chapel called Inside Out provides a safe place for students to discuss the issues surrounding sexuality and gender, and how to deal with them as Christians.
Theological Librarian Chris Rosser has spoken twice at Inside Out chapel, and said the chapel addresses several common questions students ask themselves.
“I think these are questions that a lot of students wrestle with,” Rosser said. “They’re wondering, especially in today’s climate, ‘How do we reconcile a lot of the messages that we hear out there with the Christian faith, and how do we engage people in loving ways?’”
The chapel addresses specific topics concerning sexuality and gender, such as how Christians can better relate to sexual and gender minorities.
Junior Landon Hester established Inside Out chapel at the beginning of this school year with the help of Bible Professor Jeff McMillon.
Hester spoke to McMillon before the beginning of the school year, proposing that a chapel should be created to help discuss controversial topics that are important but often ignored by Christians.
“The reason why it’s called Inside Out chapel is because that is the attitude we want to have,” Hester said. “From inside OC we want to be able to reach people, so it reflects the community that we want to build while we talk about these difficult topics.”
Junior Lauren Ashpole regularly attends Inside Out chapel.
“They talk about some issues that really aren’t talked about on campus,” Ashpole said. “It’s a good place to find out new things.”
Hester said said he recognizes that the chapel discusses difficult issues, but believes it is important Christians do not ignore them.
“We’re looking at ideas about sexuality and gender,” Hester said. “These are very controversial topics and hard to discuss, but as Christians we really need to be able to talk about them.”
Inside Out chapel is held every Thursday at 11 a.m. on the third floor of the Beam Library in the children’s section.
“This chapel is important,” Rosser said. “It’s providing an important space for students to ask questions without feeling threatened and feeling like they can really try to explore these ideas.”
0
0
Be First to Comment