Faith « Baylor Proud

Points of Pride — Faith

Jan

2011

Baylor to honor 400th anniversary of King James Bible by hosting international conference

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Academics, Faith, Research

The Bible Exactly 400 years ago, 47 scholars completed work on a book that would go on to become the most widely published writing in the English language: the King James Bible.

In April, Baylor’s Institute for Studies of Religion is hosting one of the largest celebrations of the anniversary anywhere in the world, a conference titled “The King James Bible and the World It Made, 1611-2011.” The list of speakers coming to Baylor for the event reads like a who’s who of industry experts, featuring such names as leading New Testament scholar Dr. N.T. Wright from the University of St. Andrews; Dr. Mark Noll of Notre Dame, named by Time Magazine in 2005 one of the 25 most influential evangelicals in America; and ISR’s own Distinguished Senior Fellow, Dr. Philip Jenkins. Other speakers include Robert Alter, David Bebbington, Laura Knoppers, Alister McGrath and Lamin Sanneh.

Another highlight of the conference will be the selection of rare and ancient Bibles on display from the Green Collection, one of the world’s largest collections of Bibles and related documents of the Judeo-Christian tradition. Scott Carroll, director of the Green Collection, will give a related presentation about the history of the KJV.

In advance of the conference, Jenkins was a special guest on NPR’s “Tell Me More” earlier this month to talk about the KJV and the impact it’s had over the past four centuries (click here for the audio and transcript).

Sic ’em, ISR!

Dec

2010

Baylor parents covering campus with prayer

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Faith, Student life

Prayer of all kinds is common at Baylor, from public, communal prayers in Chapel or on-campus Bible studies, to private whispered prayers in a dorm room or before a test (especially now, during finals). But students aren’t the only ones covering the BU campus in prayer; each month, groups of Baylor parents gather all over the country to pray for their children in what’s known as “First Call to Prayer,” organized by the Baylor Parents League.

“Even though our children may be from different walks of life on the Baylor campus, their common denominator is that all of their moms and dads get together every month and pray for them,” says Lori Horvath, a mother of two BU grads and one current student. “We give such thanks that there’s a place like Baylor that stands firm on that commitment and doesn’t waver and continues it in their Parents League with First Call to Prayer.”

As one of many activities, the Parents League’s call to prayer allows Baylor parents from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., from Minneapolis to South Texas, to “stand in the gap” for Baylor students, faculty and administrators through monthly prayer and fellowship. Prayer requests and praise reports can be shared online and are lifted up along with more general topics each month. What a great way for parents to support their children without getting in the way of their independence as young men and women!

Sic ’em, Parents League prayer warriors!

Nov

2010

Thankful for Baylor, as a graduate and parent

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Alumni, Faith, Student life

Baylor Quadrangle Thanksgiving is a natural time to take stock of all we have to be thankful for. This year, rather than try to encapsulate it all myself, I’ll let Julie Bell — a 1989 Baylor graduate whose son is now a Baylor student — share what she’s thankful for about Baylor.

“My son is currently a freshman at Baylor. He LOVES Baylor life. (Who wouldn’t?) I’m especially proud of how involved he has gotten in his church in Waco. Being a pastor’s kid, he’s always been under his dad’s wing but is finally able to express his spirituality in his own way. Just recently, he and some college kids from his church helped lead a worship service at a local homeless shelter. He later texted me to tell me how much fun it was! He also tells me of the many worship opportunities he has on campus. I LOVE BAYLOR and what is has to offer my son. As the Welcome Week motto says, Baylor enriches students spiritually, mentally, physically (flag football every week) and socially (who knows what happens on his hall in Martin?). Sic ’em, Bears!”

Sic ’em, indeed!

Nov

2010

Professor’s book explores Christian allegory and other messages in Harry Potter series

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Academics, Faith, Just for Fun, Research

One Fine Potion There’s no doubt that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One will rule the box office this weekend; some experts predict it could top $100 million on opening weekend alone.

But what are fans leaving the theater to do while waiting for Deathly Hallows: Part Two‘s release next July? Potter fanatics might do well to pick up One Fine Potion: The Literary Magic of Harry Potter, the latest book from Baylor professor Greg Garrett.

A longtime Baylor English professor, Garrett’s books often look for deeper meaning in pop culture, from music to movies to literature. One Fine Potion follows that approach, examining what J.K. Rowling’s books say about the importance of community and heroism and exploring the Christian allegory found throughout the series. Garrett compares Rowling’s works to those by C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, both well-known Christian authors of epic fantasies, even going so far as to say “there is no more powerful contemporary retelling of the gospel narrative than Rowling’s 4100 pages.”

Garrett’s book prompted The New Yorker to run a piece on “Harry Potter and Religion,” and he dives further into his writings in this Q&A with BeliefNet. Published by Baylor University Press, One Fine Potion is also available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Sic ’em, Dr. Garrett!

Nov

2010

Neuroscience prof’s research investigates ‘The Biology of Sin’

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Academics, Baylor 2012, Faith, Research

The Biology of Sin There’s a lot of debate in the world today over whether acts like adultery, rage and addiction are choices we make (sins) or simply a result of our biological disposition. Dr. Matthew Stanford, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor, argues that the answer may not be one or the other, but both.

In a new book, The Biology of Sin, Stanford — a three-degree Baylor alum (BS ’88, MA ’90, PhD ’92) — approaches the discussion as both a Christian and a neuroscientist, asking the same question of a variety of issues: “What does science say about this behavior, and what does the Bible say about this behavior?”

“I hope people recognize sin as a spiritual phenomenon that also has a physical manifestation,” says Stanford, pointing as an example to problems in two areas of the brain are thought to produce a predisposition toward rage and impulsive aggressive behavior.

Stanford is clear to point out that biology is not destiny and “broken biology” should never be used as an excuse for sinful behavior. “Sin is a ruthless beast: crouching at the door, waiting to consume us all,” he writes. “Sitting across the table from impulsive and aggressive patients is more like looking into a mirror than gazing at a monster. I see my own imperfections, the stain of sin, and I am grateful for God’s abundant grace.”

While other universities might approach this kind of research from only one angle, Stanford’s efforts here at Baylor demonstrate how rigorous academic study can incorporate the realities of science and the realities of God.

Sic ’em, Dr. Stanford!

Nov

2010

Homecoming deluge leads to showing of the Baylor family’s character

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Alumni, Faith, Just for Fun

Homecoming rain

Sometimes it’s tough to explain to those not acquainted with Baylor just why we’re so proud of our university and exactly how it’s different from other major schools. While the rest of us were experiencing the thrills of watching Baylor football becoming bowl-eligible at Homecoming, one Baylor mom had a different — but equally positive — experience at Floyd Casey Stadium. I think her story reflects the Baylor family’s distinct character.

“I’m a single mom of eighteen years and have identical twin daughters; Natalie is a senior at Baylor, and Emily is a senior at West Point. Natalie and I arrived an hour early in anticipation for [Baylor's Homecoming] game and subsequently got to know the people sitting around us…

“As fate would have it (or God’s master plan), the storm blew in … Once underneath, talking to two Baylor moms all the way from California and a Baylor alumnus from El Campo in a fashion similar to a family reunion, discussion turned to the economy, unemployment, etc. I reluctantly disclosed that as of two weeks ago, I was now among the millions unemployed. It was at this time that these new-found brothers and sisters in Christ began to hold hands and one by one pray for me, my twins, God’s provision for our needs, that God would bless me with a better job than before, etc. I was deeply moved and recall feeling such pride that my daughter and I were part of this wonderful institution, something bigger than all of us, something that I don’t ever want to take for granted.

“What to others may have been a miserable unfolding of events was for me the best football game ever! In the midst of the storm, God not only provided us shelter but showed his smiling face down on us and this testimony I just had to share. Thank you to my friends, whom I didn’t even get to know your name. And thank you God, for again showing me you are ALWAYS faithful to your children.”

Sic ’em, Baylor family!

Oct

2010

Soccer player’s story illustrates God’s faithfulness through trials

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Athletics, Extraordinary Stories, Faith, Student life

[Came across this inspiring story last week and felt it was definitely worth sharing here. I'm just summarizing; you really should go read the whole thing, in Kaitlyn's words, over at SharingTheVictory.com.]

Kaitlyn Amos grew up wanting to play soccer for Baylor, following both the team and the university from junior high on. In February 2006, her dream was realized; she was offered (and accepted) a scholarship to play at Baylor. Then things began to fall apart; a broken collarbone the summer before she enrolled ended her hopes of making the travel squad that fall, and then a mysterious illness during spring practice sapped her energy and abilities even further. In September 2007, a cardiologist diagnosed Amos with dilated cardiomyopathy, a weakened heart that cannot pump blood efficiently and caused her fatigue and other symptoms. With the diagnosis came the doctor’s strong suggestion that her playing career was over.

While her family sought a second opinion about the possible end of Amos’ career, her shot at playing finally came; just a few days later, she was put into the game early in the first half. In a cruel twist of fate, however, a collision with an opposing player tore Amos’ ACL, definitively ending her season. But Amos (pictured at right on crutches) didn’t see it as cruel, or fate; as she writes, “the knee injury actually spared me from having to make any soccer-ending decisions.” She was instead able to focus on her heart problems.

That offseason, Baylor hired a new soccer coach, Marci Jobson, who saw Amos’ heart for the team and offered her a team manager position. Amos’ words again:

“Even in the midst of my sorrow, I was encouraged by Coach Jobson’s faithfulness to her word… Over the course of my last two soccer seasons at Baylor, the Lord gave me everything He had promised… Had I not torn my ACL, my very life would have been jeopardized. Had my parents and family not prayed without ceasing, despair would have swallowed me. Had Coach Jobson not stepped into the picture, I’d have lost all relationships with my teammates. Had I not suffered loss, I would not understand my Redeemer the way I do now.

“All through college, the Lord repeatedly implored me to carry on. I discerned His voice saying, “Kaitlyn, this is the way—My way. Walk in it.” He stripped me of pride, false identity and worldly glory so that my story could truly reveal His glory. In the end, it points to divine sovereignty, fatherly intimacy and rich goodness.

“Though I may never again fit the world’s definition of an athlete, I will finish the race—the Kingdom race. Only now, I run with more of Him and less of me. Christ’s surpassing greatness in my jar of clay. Physical weakness of which I now gladly boast for the sake of His glory.”

This is what being a Baylor Bear is all about.

Sic ’em, Kaitlyn!

[So many of Baylor's students leave here with extraordinary stories to tell, and their stories continue long after they leave campus. Baylor graduates are changing the world, and many prospective students are eager to come to Baylor for this reason. But they need your help. The President's Scholarship Initiative aims to raise $100 million to assist Baylor students in their pursuit of the distinct educational experience offered nowhere else; help support the students of tomorrow by making your gift today.]

Oct

2010

USA Today, ABC News highlight Baylor profs’ research on ‘America’s Four Gods’

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Academics, Faith, Research, Videos

Yesterday, the main story on the front page of USA Today — the most widely circulated print newspaper in the U.S. — was about the work of two Baylor professors and their new book, America’s Four Gods.

Sociology professors Dr. Christopher Bader and Dr. Paul Froese based their work on results from the biennial Baylor Survey of Religion. The study found that Americans tend to see God in one of four ways: authoritarian, benevolent, critical or distant. By knowing which type of God an American believes in, Bader and Froese believe that the person’s views on many other issues can be predicted. (For more, including a comparison of how your beliefs compare to others in your demographic, click here.)

The pair and their work were also featured on ABC’s “World News with Diane Sawyer” Thursday, explaining their findings to a national audience of around 7 million viewers. (That video is embedded below.)

What great representation for Baylor and the excellent research being done here!

Sic ’em, Drs. Bader and Froese!

Sep

2010

Crowder’s Fantastical Church Music Conference brings big names to Baylor

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Academics, Alumni, Faith, Just for Fun, Videos

This weekend, Baylor alum, award-winning Christian artist and “Rise Up” anthem composer David Crowder is leading an all-star worship conference at Baylor intriguingly titled “Crowder’s Fantastical Church Music Conference.” Before going any further, you just have to watch the video Crowder put together advertising the conference:

The line-up of speakers and artists scheduled for this weekend includes some really impressive names: Matt Redman, Louie Giglio, Jars of Clay, Charlie Peacock, Hillsong London, Rob Bell, Derek Webb and of course the David Crowder*Band. Thanks to Crowder, each will be exposed to Baylor University for a weekend, perhaps for the first time, while the Baylor community gets the opportunity to hear from some of the leading voices in worship music today. (For tickets, click here.)

Crowder is only the latest Baylor/Waco product to emerge as a leader on the church/worship music scene. From Word Inc.’s founding in Waco to the Black Gospel Music Restoration Project to popular Christian bands of today like DC*B, Addison Road, Erin McCarley and Dutton, members of the Baylor family have helped lead the evolution of Christian music for more than half a century.

Sic ’em, worship leaders!

Jul

2010

Young grad shares his testimony after miraculously surviving 4-story fall

Posted by The Baylor Proud Team in Alumni, Extraordinary Stories, Faith, Videos

Since graduating from Baylor in 1992, Paul Jensen has put together a remarkably successful career as a business executive in the world of video games. He has helmed two casual games companies, served as vice president of Sony Pictures Digital, and currently works as director of business development for Microsoft’s xBox live. But while he was succeeding on the outside, Jensen was fighting an inner turmoil, living a lukewarm Christian life that didn’t really give him any peace. And then he almost lost it all.

In 2002, Jensen was rock climbing at Joshua Tree National Park in California when he fell — four and a half stories. By his own account, he should not have survived. But he did. “God saved my life for a purpose,” he says. “That purpose, I feel, is to share my life’s story, and all that God has taught me along the way, with others.” (See him tell his story in the video below from The 700 Club.)

Jensen has written a book, Over the Edge Into Truth, that is available for sale via his website and Amazon and is also available as a free PDF download. The book tells the miraculous story of his survival, from the two climbers who were nearby — one of them who just happened to be a trauma surgeon who had a neck brace in his car, the other a first responder with a backboard – to the diagnosis after he was helicoptered to the nearest hospital and found to have no broken bones, no internal bleeding and no head trauma. After a 45-foot fall. Onto rocks. Headfirst.

The physical violence of the fall, Jensen says, “catapulted” him in a new direction spiritually. The book continues with a narration of that journey, as he recognized the emptiness of his previous life and discovered the true peace that can be found in God. “This book is God’s story, not mine,” he says. “I consider it a blessing to share my story with anyone, whether through the book, opportunities to speak, or any other way to serve God, who gave me a second life.”

Sic ’em, Paul!

Points of Pride — Faith

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