As part of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, I have been deployed with the Rapid Response Team. The team of Chaplains from all over the country have been invited to participate in providing ministry and care-giving to the students, parents and alumni of Northern Illinois University. My role here will be from February 23-26, 2008.
Already we have seen several powerful example of hope and profound ministry. As the students return to campus there are many fearful and emotional reactions. All across the campus there are memorials filled with messages, candles and flowers. Over the next several days I will be posting short updates of the ministry impact we are seeing as we mingle and speak to people.
Today I met and spoke with Charles Rex Arbogast. He is an AP photographer. His images (one above) reveals the incredible impact this tragedy has had. Charles is a believer in Christ. He has been with the AP for over 20 years. A surprise to me but he has grown up in The Nazarene Church. See related link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/15/AR2008021500270_2.html
(Cut and paste link)
I also had the awesome opportunity to pray with and share the hope we have in Christ with many. Students like Danielle and alumni like Melissa have felt the incredible grief and hurt as a result of this tragedy. I have cried with and hugged several as they stood, almost numb, in front of the memorials.
There will be a Convocation service (simulcast) all across campus on Sunday evening. Several of us will be deployed in various locations. We hope to demonstrate Christ's love and comfort during this difficult time as they return to campus.
Please pray for those impacted by such a terrible tragedy.
More to come.
