If ever a student walked in front of the Hub and wondered why he or she were faced with images of dead fetuses and preachings about the fate of humanity, the abortion protesters gave answers about their visit.
“We are gonna tell people that life is like a vapor,” said pro-life protester Johnny Brekeen. “It’s here for a moment, and then it vanishes away.”
About once every month, the group visits campus to inform others of their beliefs and encourage them to live a lifestyle according to the principles of Christ.
Recently the group visited campus again and said that their ultimate goal is to tell people about the good news of Jesus.
“There is good news, and there is bad news, and that is every soul after our bodies die is gonna live for eternity, and we’re going to stand in front of Jesus, and he’s going to say, ‘Depart from me. I never knew you,’” Brekeen said. “Or he’s going (to) say, ‘Well done, good and faithful (servant).’”
There were students who walked by and showed the protesters that they were in
agreement. These students stopped to inquire more about the Christian faith.
But students who wanted to walk through Shoemaker Square to grab a bite to eat before their next class believed this approach was somewhat disturbing.
The group has been both accepted and rejected by students who find the exhibit interesting or otherwise. Some students expressed that they believed the message came from a good place but lacked sensitivity and appeal.
“They have a good message, but they can’t determine people’s love of God by looking at them as they walk past,” said senior music major Anjwon Eaddy. “The way they are doing it is kind of iffy to me.”
Shoemaker Square is no stranger to controversial groups who choose to exercise their right to freedom of speech, protected under the First Amendment. Vegitarian leaders, atheist support groups and more come out to utilize their access to hundreds of students who will choose whether to ignore or adhere to the group’s views.
Emile Cantrell also observed the group, saying, “They’re fine, as long as they are not hurting anybody.”
