Swinging Bridge Magazine: April 2016

Peace & Conflict Studies Major Profile PAGE 4

Farewell to Arms

Men’s Club Volleyball

PAGE 12

Volume 96 // Edition 5 // April 2016

PAGE 24

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volume 96 // edition 5 // apr 2016

Swinging Bridge Magazine Staff

Student Director Assistant Student Director Editor-in-Chief Online Editor Student Life Editor Culture Editor Sports & Rec Editor Design Managers Design Assistants

Audio/Visual Manager Audio/Visual Assistants Business Manager Social Media Manager

David Broomell Ashlyn Miller Maddie Crocenzi Alyssa Burd Rose Talbot Mimi Pedercini Willie Hope Jimmy Gibbons Raquelle Gonzalez Morgan Boucher Chalmers Port Noah Sneddon Lindsay Corriveau Becca Simon Ryan Emerick Josh Husmann Jessalyn Megerle

Letter from the

mud in my life. It’s much easier for me to sidestep a difficult situation and take the easier path.

However, just like in the wilderness, by stepping over some mud, I’m ruining the area around me.

Over Spring Break, I decided to do something a little different and backpack through the South.

The short summary of the trip is that it was a hilarious and absolutely amazing adventure.

When I do this, I’m telling God that I don’t trust Him enough to walk through some difficult stuff.

Editor I thought about a lot of things as I was trudging up a mountain with 40 pounds on my back. Many of my thoughts went something like, “Dear God, why did I think backpacking was a good idea?” and “Do they deliver pepperoni pizza in the wilderness?”

In between all of those random thoughts, I occasionally had some deep ones. I thought about what I was going to do with my life, and more specifically what God wants me to do with my life. Leave No Trace gave me some answers.

Monday - Friday | 1pm - 5pm (717) 766-2511 ext. 6081 1 College Avenue Suite 3058 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (Downstairs South Wing of the Larsen Student Union) The Swinging Bridge Magazine is published through The Pulse: Messiah College Media Hub, run by students. The Pulse consists of Pulse FM, The Clarion yearbook, and The Swinging Bridge Magazine. The Swinging Bridge staff strives to publish quality student writing, photography, and design. To learn about job and volunteer opportunities, email thepulse@ messiah.edu.

The organization Leave No Trace establishes some common rules for encountering the wild. One of those rules is that you must walk on the path in front of you, no matter what’s there. Walking around mud or some other obstacle tramples the area around the designated path and ruins nature around you.

In my deep state I thought a lot about how this applies to life. I don’t know about you, but I’m constantly walking around the

That principle also applies to this magazine. It’s easier for the editors, writers and myself to sidestep the sticky and sometimes controversial issues. But by choosing not to walk through a little mud and dirt, we don’t get the satisfaction of reaching the other side.

Our feature story is a bit like that.

Pacifism and just war theory are two opposing views both prevalent on Messiah’s campus. There’s a certain mentality that it’s easier to ignore these views instead of tackling them head-on. We didn’t want to do that. We wanted to know what you think, understand what you believe and provide a forum for respectful discussion.

I encourage you not to ignore the tough situations in your own life.

Although walking through mud got my boots, legs and sometimes my entire body dirty, it also made it even more satisfying when I reached the other side.

Maddie Crocenzi Editor-in-Chief

HUMANS OF MESSIAH

Student Life

GREG SHIRK Sophomore Engineering

DAN BLACK

Junior Business

“I find that throughout my life, my closest friends or those who I hold highest are the ones who always seem to have time for me or for others. Because of this, I strive to be someone that others feel like they can always come to. Whether it’s for advice or if they just need someone to listen to their problems. I know how important it is to have someone like this, and I also know what it’s like to feel as if I had no one to go to. So I hope to someday become that person. I have a long way to go, but I’m working on it.”

TABLE OF CONTENTS STUDENT LIFE

Page 4: Major Profile: PACS

“One of the greatest experiences of my life was zip lining in Cozumel, Mexico.

We were more than 100 feet in the air zip lining for about a mile. It was a rush of adrenaline and an unforgettable feeling and experience. It was both scary but humbling, being able to be there and realize how small we as humans really are. We sometimes will do anything to reach new heights, get another check off the bucket list.

It’s what sets us apart from everything else in the world. Having the ability to seek adventure and create new things and ideas is such a blessing and a privilege. Zip lining, for me, was more than a quick soar through the air. It was an experience I will never forget.”

C U LT U R E

Sports & Rec

Page 12: A Farewell to Arms

Page 24: Men’s Volleyball

Page 16: WYMHMLM

Page 26: Trainers Eyes

Page 7: Lottie Life Hacks

Page 18: Why You Should Care

Page 27: Day in the Life

Page 8: Springtime Fashion

Page 19: April Devotion

Page 28: Swimming

Page 9: How to Adult

Page 20: Beyond Being Green

Page 29: Outdoor Sports

Page 6: Through the Eyes of a Work Study

Page 10: Prank it Forward

2 APR 2016

Student Life

The Midnight Scream

Every college has its traditions and quirks, and Messiah is no exception. You’re probably familiar with many of our community traditions, but here are six Messiah-isms you don’t want to miss.

Chicken Cordon Bleu in Lottie on Sundays When you walk into Lottie on Sunday afternoon after church, you can always count on chicken cordon bleu and mashed potatoes to greet you. Vegetarians, don’t fret; there is usually a pasta option available on Sundays as well to keep you satisfied.

Sledding Down Cemetery Hill

Snowstorms are inevitable in Pennsylvania, so make the most of the elements by sledding on Cemetery Hill with friends. If you find yourself without a sled, reach for a storage bin cover or a flattened cardboard box to get you down the hill without a problem.

It’s impossible not to feel stressed during finals week. Thankfully, Messiah students can participate in the midnight scream every night during finals week, where you can scream as loudly as you desire when the clock strikes 12 to release some of that stress.

Duct Tape Wars There are very few events on campus that combine duct tape, sweat and cardboard.

Just like the midnight scream, the duct tape wars happen in May during finals week. What better way to spend Reading Day than cheering on your favorite team?

B-Sides on Wednesdays You don’t have to live in the city to experience live music on a regular basis. Every Wednesday night in the Union, local artists gather for a small concert and plenty of good jams.

Powerhouse on Thursdays A campus favorite, students gather together for praise and worship every Thursday night in Hostetter Chapel, where the Powerhouse student band plays today’s top worship songs.

Messiah ONLY AT

What are your favorite

Messiah traditions? Tweet

@MessiahPulse to let us know!

College

BY JEN MORGAN

SBM 3

Student Life “IT’S ABOUT BEING

INTENTIONAL

IN FINDING NONVIOLENT

PEACE AND CONFLICT STUDIES

By Jen Morgan

H

ere at Messiah, we hear a lot about living in community and promoting reconciliation in church and society.

These concepts can be overwhelming, and it’s sometimes difficult to figure out what it means to live them out in daily life.

For Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) majors, it’s about being intentional in finding nonviolent solutions to conflict and showing compassion to others.

The PACS major offers students a multi-disciplinary course load covering issues related to war, social justice, mediation and theology. Coursework in history, religion, communication and politics also make up the major.

Since study abroad programming is a large part of life at Messiah, there are specific off-campus programs geared towards PACS majors: the American Studies Program in Washington D.C., the China Studies Program, the Middle East Studies Program in Jordan and the Uganda Studies Program, among others.

4 APR 2016

SHOWING COMPASSION TO OTHERS Junior Madison Neimer was very pleased with her decision to become a PACS major. “I heard about the program my first week of my first year from my advisor and was completely hooked. The classes completely intrigued me and matched all my interests and passions. I knew it was what I wanted to study for four years.”

She emphasizes that PACS offers a wide range of academic experiences. “There are core classes in the major that study the history of peace, conflict mediation and the theology behind peace and violence. PACS pairs well with another major or minor and you can focus the major from international to domestic from communications to politics, and even theological to sociological.”

SO

Student Life

NT SOLUTIONS TO CONFLICT AND

SHOWING COMPASSION

TO OTHERS.”

Neimer also participated in the Middle East Studies Program, an experience she said she would recommend to all majors. “It has helped shape my world views of multicultural communication and peacemaking in daily interactions.”

Although the major offers students great opportunities, just like any program, it faces common stereotypes.

“The most common misconception is that everyone in the PACS program is a pacifist. Yes, Messiah has strong Mennonite and Anabaptist roots, but the PACS program covers all aspects of the pursuit of peace,” says Neimer.

PACS professor Dr. Pickens echoes the fact that the major isn’t just for pacifists: “It is for everyone who prefers peace (which I believe is everyone of good conscience).”

“People assume you’re a pacifist or that you want to work in politics.

People typically don’t connect it with social justice at all, and they actually go hand in hand. A lot of peace work is synonymous with justice work”

Senior PACS major Sallie McCann agrees.

“People assume you’re a pacifist or that you want to work in politics. People typically don’t connect it with social justice at all, and they actually go hand in hand. A lot of peace work is synonymous with justice work,” McCann says.

Another stereotype about the PACS major is related to job searching. What opportunities are available to graduates with the degree? Neimer notes the major is extremely diverse, and students can take apply knowledge to a wide variety of jobs.

“People mostly work in the non-profit or NGO field, some pursue law degrees or go to seminary. It’s interesting because PACS covers such a wide range of disciplines; it is useful in almost every job field,” Neimer says.

Since McCann is approaching graduation, she has been thinking more about post-graduate employment within her field.

The education that PACS majors receive prepares students for a lifelong career in peacemaking and conflict resolution, whether it involves going across the globe or attending graduate school after Messiah.

The possibilities are endless, and the need for reconciliation will always be present.

According to Dr. Pickens, PACS makes a difference in the world by allowing people to faithfully live out a life modeled after Jesus’ way of nonviolence and enemy love.

“We have embraced the myth that violence works, yet there has never been a war to end all wars. Only peace will make our world truly safe and just,” Pickens says.

“I’d like to work for an organization that does peacemaking work such as Christian Peacemaker Teams or Mennonite Central Committee. Some of the work they do is direct nonviolent action, providing an international presence in local conflicts, mediation, peace education or development work towards justice,” she says.

SBM 5

Student Life

BY SHARLENE OONG

THROUGH THE EYES OF A WORK STUDY

“When are we getting paid?”

“Can’t make it; I have work.”

“Do you mind picking up my shift?”

Sound familiar? These are probably some of the most common phrases students hear about work on campus.

From the time we get to campus, having a work study position is anything but a surprise. Jobs on campus are a convenient way to make money, primarily for tuition or living expenses. According to the Student Employment Office, the average work-study student works about ten hours a week, or an average of an hour or two a day, which fits around class schedules.

Messiah provides students about a thousand jobs during the academic year, and offers around 150 summer positions, the Student Employment Office says.

Messiah’s extensive institutional work program means students do not need to show financial need via the standard need analysis formula to receive a job.

The types of jobs available are always changing as well. Many students who are assigned a position don’t stay with

6 APR 2016

their initial job for long, and pick up another during the first semester.

for it to happen. It needs to happen somewhere,” Campbell says.

“We experience the most turnover in the first month of the semester,” says Dining Services’ Operation Manager Dan Campbell. “Every year we replace 30 percent of our staff. The population of the campus changes between graduation, field placement and student teaching. The middle of the year is 10 percent.”

For those who have recently started college, a new work-study experience can also help them get comfortable with Messiah’s environment, both in and out of the classroom.

Students often choose a specific work study because of its connection to their future career goals. “I wanted to pick something I will be interested in and learn from.

So working in the Intercultural Office and learning more about study abroad programs, interacting with international students and things about travel is interesting to me,” says Abigail Roth, a senior Intercultural Office work-study student.

“This is my first official job,” says Shaddi Okello, a first-year who works in Lottie. “You have to learn how to budget your money; it teaches you how to be responsible.”

Positions on campus also help students get to know other people and take a break from studying. Abigail Hing, a sophomore Campus Events and Union Cafe worker, says she appreciates the freedom to choose her hours and the quiet alone time her job gives her.

Certain jobs have trained students to be prepared for future work environments, developing qualities like time management, efficiency, proficiency in software programs like Microsoft and many more.

Employers have front row seats to watch many students grow, whether it’s moving out of their comfort zone, improving their time management skills or gaining technical knowledge.

“Students need those experiences, and summer jobs are a great place

“I have seen student workers who have matured over the course of two to three

By Elizabeth Gutman

“the student workers are what make this job fun for me” years here with us. If I am doing my job right as a manager, I am providing the opportunity to learn and grow in a real-world experience,” says Campbell.

Falcon Cafe Supervisor, Ryan Miller, echoes Campbell’s sentiment. “Many of the students start the semester shy and quiet. By the end of the semester their confidence has increased and they are outgoing and energetic. In a lot of ways you are forced to get out your comfort zone and work with students you would otherwise never spend time with.”

Roth also appreciates the opportunity to get to know faculty members outside of professors through her position. “It is good to be part of something on campus that is not a club or classes,” she says.

Having a good blend of students and staff creates a unique working environment.

Not to mention, bonds are created with each other, fostering a sense of family. “In my opinion, the student workers are what make this job fun for me. I feel like I have a fairly unique position here at Messiah,” Miller says.

Student Life

In this edition of Lottie Life Hacks, I have two recipes perfect to grab and go to enjoy throughout the day. The first recipe is a cereal mix that makes for a great in-class snack. The second recipe is a coffee drink that is almost like a dessert in a glass and was created by one of our fellow Swinging Bridge writers!

Munch and Crunch Cereal Mix Step 1: Grab a big bowl from the cereal section.

Step 2: Combine Cheerios, Cap’n Crunch, Krave, Frosted Flakes, Kellogg’s Smart Start, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cascadian Farm Oats and Honey Granola together in the bowl and mix with a spoon.

11

Step 3: Eat the cereal mix straight

out of the bowl or pour it into a Ziploc bag to take with you!

Erin Zakin's Iced Caramel Mocha Step 1: Take a glass or use your own travel mug and fill it about two-thirds of the way with ice from the drink station.

Step 2: Fill the glass or your travel mug

2

two-thirds full with the coffee of your choice.

Step 3: Add your choice of sugar and/or sweetener.

Step 4: Add a few pumps of a coffee creamer of your choice.

Step 5: Add more ice to the drink, so it continues to stay cool. Then stir everything together with a spoon.

Step 6: Top if off with a large pump of For those who are interested in a workstudy position, you can email StudentEmployment@messiah.edu or contact Student Employment Coordinator Belinda Conrad directly at belindaconrad@messiah.edu.

hot fudge and a large pump of caramel sauce, found near the ice cream station.

If you have any recipe ideas for Lottie Life Hacks, feel free to send them to eg1228@messiah.edu.

SBM 7

Student Life

springtime

By Kaitlyn Wolf and Alyssa Nagel

W

ho doesn’t love the warm weather that comes with springtime? But with the changing seasons, you may find yourself with many winter clothing items still taking up room in your closet. This month, we want to show you how to incorporate those articles into your spring wardrobe, especially on those chilly days.

Fashion When spring rolls around many of us toss our sweaters in our closets, but junior Hayley Green shows us how to incorporate them right into the changing season!

By wearing a pastel color, Haley effortlessly integrates her winter attire into a light spring wardrobe. She also wears a lightweight floral shirt underneath her sweater to layer the look. To tie her outfit all together, she wears faded distressed jeans and just the right amount of accessories.

Although we all love spring weather, it’s also important to be prepared for any residual cold. Junior Dylan Clemente shows us exactly how to pull off a classic spring look by wearing a pullover sweater perfect for those cooler days. His light colored khakis can be worn all year-round, but are great to bring out for the start of the spring season.

Junior Jocelyn Chavous is wearing a colorful and floral springtime dress, with a fun necklace to make a statement. The beginning of spring can often be on the chillier side, so she adds a brown cardigan and brown riding boots from her winter wardrobe. This look is perfect for cooler days, but still transitions into springtime with her dress’s floral pattern.

8 APR 2016

L

M

BirkenSOCKS are all over campus this spring. It’s a perfect way to incorporate the fuzzy winter socks you love with your comfortable and stylish Birkenstocks! Julia Kyne, (first-year, left) chooses to wear a winter vest that adds style and is great for when the temperature is still cool. Lauren Faircloth (first-year, right) adds a pop of color by wearing pink jeans. The color screams springtime, but also matches perfectly with her socks. Both girls are rocking the on campus trend while incorporating the winter pieces they already have into their spring wardrobe.

E t w

P

Student Life

HOW TO ADULT:

PAYING OFF STUDENT LOANS

BY ERIN ZAKIN

Congratulations! You’re (almost) officially a college graduate!

But that title doesn’t come without a rather large price to pay.

The total amount of student debt across America, as reported by Forbes, has reached over $1 trillion - yes, the number with 12 zeros. The Institute for College Access & Success states the average debt of Messiah graduates in 2014 was over $34,000. That’s a little more than your first paycheck will cover, and may even be more than your first year’s salary.

Luckily, if you’re smart with your finances and save more than you spend, you’ll quickly be on your way to being debt-free.

1. Keep Expenses Low Wherever your first job is, be smart about your living situation. Living with others will always cut down the cost because you’ll be splitting rent and the cost of utilities. When it comes to food, try to pack your lunch or prepare your own meals more than going out. As much as you may want to splurge on restaurant meals, it’s the easiest way to run through your money. When it comes to travel, try to bike, walk or use inexpensive public transportation to cut down on gas.

2. Create a Budget One of the biggest issues students have with paying off student loans is not giving themselves a realistic budget. The balance of your checking account should not be your budget. Instead, map out your expenses, including your student loan payments. It’s important not to get ahead of yourself. “Only pay back within your budget,” recommends Michael Momose, a recent Messiah graduate. Make sure to set aside some money for a savings account too. Whatever you have leftover should be your spending budget.

3. Be Smart About Payment Options Some loans offer lower interest rates if you start paying while still attending college, which means you’ll pay less money overall.

After graduation, try paying off the loan with the highest interest rate first because it will cost the most money if it sits and accrues interest. Another option is quickly paying off the low balance loans.

This will lower your minimum monthly payment and help you out in case you need extra money for other expenses.

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SBM 9 Online | Flexible | Affordable

Student Life

prank it

forward

BY KELLY WEBBER

he word “prank” carries an inherently negative connotation, typically associated with mischief and cruel intentions. Consider The Parent Trap, when Lindsay Lohan “pranks” her twin (also Lindsay Lohan) by stealing her clothes while she jumps into a lake.

I remember my one and only attempt at pranking. In sixth grade, thinking I was quite clever, I formatted a fake report card on Microsoft Word, replacing my typical A’s and B’s with C’s

Fortunately, the world of pranking is much more sophisticated than my tween mind. Young people are reclaiming the culture of pranking and refining it with what has been dubbed the “Prank it Forward” movement.

According to The Huffington Post, “Prank it Forward” is a campaign by break.com that’s dedicated to charity-based “pranks

for good.” For example, housekeeper Cara Simmons expected another day of hard work but was instead surprised by a series of “random acts of kindness,” ending with her being given the home she thought she was there to clean.

Messiah students are playing their part in the movement. Many first-year students report taking part in playing “prank wars” as a way to bond with their floors and make new friends.

First-year Martin Kolb reminisces about a prank war with a friend that consisted

“I put nearly 1,000 wet cotton balls on my roommate’s car one cold night so they would freeze on his car.”

- Steven Carpenter, Sophomore

10 APR 2016

photos by sophomore Steven Carpenter

T

and D’s. What my twelve-year-old self thought would end in a few laughs and a hilarious story ultimately resulted in a serious conversation with my mother.

Student Life

of “taking over 400 selfies on his phone, and him stealing my mattress and hiding it in another floormate’s room. He printed out pictures of my mugshot from his phone and spread them across the room, and I flipped his furniture, including his mattress and dresser, upside down. What’s amazing is that we are still good friends, despite our antics.”

Some pranks that started out as firstyear floor bonding led to so much

more. First-year Jade Robledo attests to meeting her boyfriend in the midst of a prank war with his roommates that included taping clothes to the wall and hiding slippers in the freezer.

This year, don’t label April Fool’s Day just a juvenile excuse to play the same old jokes. Get creative with the unique holiday – unleash your inner child to strengthen bonds with floormates, meet a new friend or make someone’s day.

“My roommate (Brandin Dyche, seen in picture) toilet papered my side of the room.”

- Steven Carpenter, Sophomore

SBM 11

Culture

Farewell

to ARMS

By Alyssa Burd

12 APR 2016

Culture

Not all Christians share the same opinions. Sure, we may agree on the basic beliefs that form the foundation of Christianity: we love Jesus, we accept him as Lord and Savior and we live life based on our interpretations of God’s word. It’s these interpretations, however, that occasionally lead us to disagree, or even argue, with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

The

third chapter of Ecclesiastes explains that there is a time and season for everything. The eighth verse of the chapter states, “…a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.”

Ecclesiastes 3:8, while small, carries a large meaning and brings to light an ongoing argument between members of the Christian community, including students and faculty of Messiah College — the debate over war and peace.

Messiah identifies with the Brethren in Christ denomination, and the College’s heritage is rooted in the Wesleyan, Pietist and Anabaptist traditions.

The Anabaptists fully embraced Jesus’ command to love our enemies and reject the sword, as well as the actions of war, as a means of achieving peace.

SBM 13

Culture

A time for War, A time to love,

“war always represents a failure to resolve conflicts nonviolently”

“Anabaptism is about a lot more than just peace theology, although I think peace theology is central to that. The Anabaptists believed that discipleship is central to what it means to be a Christian. In other words, it is the way one follows Jesus on a daily basis; that’s the real mark of a Christian, not simply affirming a set of beliefs,” says Theology and Mission professor, George Pickens. “Jesus is not just a sacrifice that was offered on a cross; Jesus’s life is a model for the Christian. Out of that grows this conviction that we need to live as Jesus lived, and that is a life of peace and reconciliation. Peace is central to Anabaptist conviction because discipleship is what it means to be a Christian.”

Pickens went on to explain his belief that it is possible to care for servicemen and women, but not support the military as an institution or acts of war.

“I believe that war always represents a failure to resolve conflicts nonviolently— there’s always a possibility to resolve a conflict nonviolently,” says Pickens. “War represents a deep moral failure, always.

I think most scholars would agree that most wars in human history are not just wars, even in our own nation’s history.”

While the tradition of Messiah abides by the Anabaptist interpretation of peace, not all students agree with the College’s established peacekeeping beliefs. Some Messiah students are avid supporters of military action and believe that war is sometimes necessary.

Jacob Shetron, a senior Christian Ministries major and former Aviation Electronics Technician for the United States Navy says, “By definition, I do believe in just war. But I am on the much more conservative side of just war—I am a just war proponent who wishes he could be a pacifist. God gave responsibility to man to care for creation. God saw life as something holy because he created it, so man’s blood shouldn’t be shed. But there is this

underlying, continual sense that during times when certain actions are taken by man, we are to be responsible for standing in people’s way when they want to do evil.”

Junior Engineering major, Brad Sloop adds, “The Bible calls us to be a voice for the voiceless. Psalm 82:3 says, ‘Stand up for those who are weak and for those whose fathers have died. See to it that those who are poor and those who are beaten down are treated fairly.’ Christians in America have the luxury of worshiping however and whenever they wish. Without war and the sacrifice of thousands of servicemen and women over the years, there wouldn’t be anyone to stand up and defend the First Amendment religious liberties that we hold so dear in this country.”

What are Christians supposed to believe?

The Bible brims over with rules and laws by which humans are supposed to follow.

John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” However, Luke 6:27-29 says, “But to those who are listening, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those

aa time for Peace. time to hate.

14 APR 2016

Culture

who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.” How are Christians supposed to know how to be faithful followers of Jesus when the lessons of His word seem blatantly contradictory?

This contradiction brings many interesting ethical questions to the surface. When the Al-Qaeda terrorist organization crashed two Boeing airliners into the World Trade Center buildings and killed nearly 3,000 Americans, should America have responded differently? When Adolph Hitler murdered millions of innocent people during WWII, was the United States wrong to use force to try to gain his surrender?

“I value human life. I am very grateful that I was never put in a situation where I’d have to take someone’s life because that’s a position that I don’t want to be in,” Shetron says. “But we have seen over history where men have been willing to do violence to others and the only way to stop them was through immediate violence. Only a madman likes to do violence and kill. But as history shows, there are madmen in this world. As a Christian, if I value life, and there are those who can’t defend or protect themselves, we’re called to care for those people. We’re supposed to protect, to care, to love. That includes social actions too, but it even extends to the point where if someone is trying to harm or kill, we’re called to defend.”

These are questions that Christians struggle to answer, but perhaps there is a time and season for both war and peace under Heaven; a time where we are called to love and be kind to our enemies and a time to use force as a means of protecting the greater good.

Many individuals share a desire for an end to all evil and a restoration of peace. It’s the matter of how they intend to bring about this change in the world that leads to debate. According to Romans 12:18, we should live in peace with our fellow man whenever possi-

ble. Unfortunately, in a world where actions are fueled by hatred, power and greed, peace is not easily attained.

There will always be a need for individuals to actively seek peaceful resolutions, but a fallen world also needs those who are willing to serve during times when force offers the only means of protecting the greater good. While some situations can be resolved with demonstrations of love and submission, others will remain unsettled until a stand is taken. We must learn to love and reconcile with our enemies, but we must also defend and protect the most precious gift of all creation—the sanctity of human life.

“Only a madman likes to do violence and kill” SBM 15

Culture

W Y M H M L M (What You May Have Missed Last Month)

March With spring semester winding down, it feels like the last thing you need to worry about is #FOMO...but it’s impossible to avoid. Here are a few things worthy of catching up on:

16 APR 2016

By Megan Hess

Culture

1. “Cat Gags #1” on YouTube This cat is the face of picky eaters everywhere. Its dramatic reactions to its owner offering it human foods will make you laugh until you cry. While the Internet is full of cute cat videos, this is one of the best out there.

2. Divinity: Original Sin on Steam

True to its name, this turn-based RPG can get pretty devilish. Players can fight, pickpocket and steal (a practice enhanced by the game’s “sneak mode,” where players can move about undetected as long as no one comes near) from townspeople and enemies alike. However, for those who self-identify as pacifists, the game also has an impressive crafting feature, allowing players to create food, potions, weapons and more.

no mo’ no#fomo mo’ #fomo

3. The Unfortunate Importance of Beauty

by Amanda Filipacchi A sinuous blend of social commentary, fantasy, mystery and satire, The Unfortunate Importance of Beauty follows Barb, a stunning costume designer determined to camouflage her natural good looks to catch the man of her dreams. Her best friend, Lily, is a homely musician who wants to become beautiful so the man she loves will return her affections. The story’s realistic, compelling characters and ever-shifting plot twists make The Unfortunate Importance of Beauty an unforgettable must-read.

4. Prison Break Reboot

Prison Break was the most popular prison show on primetime TV - and, before the debut of Orange is the New Black, probably the most popular prison show on television. Prison Break followed Michael Schofield (Wentworth Miller) as he tattooed his entire body, went to prison and more - all to save his wrongly convicted brother (Dominic Purcell) from death row. The show ended in 2009, after five seasons and a spin-off movie explaining the season finale more in-depth. Out of the original series cast, the only other member besides Miller and Purcell guaranteed to return is Sarah Wayne Callies, who played Schofield’s love interest and the mother of his child, Dr. Sara Tancredi.

SBM 17

Culture

Why Should We Care about

By Caitlinn Curry

Boko Haram

Between the devastating headlines littering the news and the horrors we see incessantly via our social media feeds, ceasing to care about the world often seems like the easiest route.

Spurned by an overload of information and the incapability to “do anything about it,” many of even the most compassionate college students (and people) have opted out of concern for the world.

This lax mentality can prove to be devastating to other people around the globe; while we may not be able to fix the issue, we can certainly make an impact in one person’s life – and we can’t do that by ignoring what is happening, even in the most remote of places.

Boko Haram is an extremist group out of West Africa; they were birthed and active in Nigeria, and also in Chad, Niger and Northern Cameroon. Boko Haram is renowned for their brutally violent and radical mentality.

The Independent reported that in November of 2015, Boko Haram easily surpassed ISIS as the deadliest terror organization, responsible for a reported near 7,000 deaths in 2014.

18 APR 2016

Over the 2014 year, Boko Haram led Nigeria to a 300% increase in violence, resulting in double the deaths committed by ISIS in Iraq.

Innocent children, Muslims, Christians, men and women are all affected by this extremist group: women are forced to blow up villages with explosives tied to them, and entire villages of people are set on fire.

No one in Northern Africa is safe from Boko Haram and their heinous, death-producing acts.

“It’s not an isolated issue, it’s escalating and will continue,” explains Devin Groat, senior Christian Ministries major.

Unfortunately, in the face of the recent Paris attacks and the dirty folds of political banter, Northern Africa has been ignored by the majority of the United States. It doesn’t affect us, right? Wrong. To some, this disregard is not only disturbing, but a failure to act as the Body of Christ, and it’s something even the least versed Messiah College students should care about.

Culture

Monthly

Devotional

By Lindsey Longoria

Dr. Dean Curry, director of the College Honors Program and politics professor, states that we as Messiah College students should care about what Boko Haram is doing in Africa.

“First and foremost we should care because every human person – whether that person lives next door or halfway around the world – is created in God’s image,” Curry says. “Christians, in particular, need to affirm and advocate on behalf of the dignity and value of human life everywhere.”

Dr. Pickens, director of the Peace and Conflict Studies Program and professor of theology and mission, affirms Curry’s stance.“Not only is it a human tragedy, but it is a Christian tragedy,” Pickens says.

“There is a very local connection to what is happening in Nigeria: over half of the

Church of the Brethren churches in Nigeria are affected by Boko Haram.

There are many Church of the Brethren congregations in the area who are helping with relief in Nigeria. There is very much a local dimension to this conflict, and we must remember that when one part of the Body suffers, we all suffer.”

While Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, Chad and Boko Haram are names some of us may struggle to pronounce, spell or point to on a map, Messiah College as a Christian community is responsible for being aware and prayerful of the lives at stake in those distant African countries. It may not seem like something that affects you, but as the folks above have said, there are a plethora of reasons as to why we should care.

Every time I tell people I’m a Martin Scholar, I’m met with the same response: “But... you’re so white.” And they’re not wrong, but I awkwardly have to explain my Mexican-American heritage every time. My entire being is often viewed as the butt of a joke about pale skin, and I know, in many different ways, others can relate. I’ve fought my whole life to justify my very existence to others who bear the same divine image, but I too often find myself exhausted. I’m learning to clothe myself instead in my Christ-like identity.

Galatians 3:27 says, “As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ,” and goes on to say there are no longer hierarchical distinctions, for we’re one in Christ. As we go forth in communion with one another, I pray we celebrate our individuality, yet remember our true identity lies in the Creator of us all. Last month we said, “Kiss Me. I’m Irish,” but may we always say, “Embrace me, for we’re all one family.”

EMBRACE ME

FOR WE’RE ALL

ONE FAMILY

SBM 19

Culture

BEYOND “Being Green”

By Myriam Pedercini

Chirping birds, the hint of green buds on branches and the delicate blooms sprouting from the ground are all signs that spring is here. We shed our winter coats, some of us go on a spring-cleaning frenzy and we remember the importance of caring for our home planet with the annual celebration of Earth Day on April 22.

20 APR 2016

IN

recent years, there has been a push for “being green” amongst businesses, political parties and in people’s personal lifestyles- but is being green enough?

“Green has this association with strictly environmental care,” says Brandon Hoover, director of sustainability. “I think sustainability is a little deeper and wider than that.”

Sustainability is inclusive of being concerned about the environment, economy and social justice issues.

“It’s important to remember that sustainability and environmental issues affect people directly, especially in developing countries,” says Jessalyn Megerle, senior sustainability major.

“I got involved for the love of the natural world and stayed for the people.”

Whether it’s the love for people or the natural world, being an engaged citizen is vital to having a positive impact on this Earth.

“We’re taught a lot at Messiah to be engaged citizens and often that takes the form of social engagement, but we don’t often think about that community being ecological,” says Hoover. “Being an engaged citizen, being an ecological citizen is understanding your environment and these issues to try and change it for the better.”

Being an engaged citizen can begin by simply paying attention to your surrounding community. Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, David Foster, encourages unplugging from our devices and becoming aware of our neighbors, and not just the people who live near us.

Culture

“The Bible calls me to be more than ‘being green’- to be a steward, care for and protect creation.”

for and protect creation. To take care of the world as God does.”

“Be curious; what else lives here besides us?” asks Foster. “Know the creatures who live here personally, pay attention and practice listening and being here instead of going for a walk and listening to your iPod.” The relationships humans have with animals often relates to our treatment of other people. There must be a constant effort to put into practice what we know to be right. Our morals should influence how we practice treating our home, respecting creation and caring for it.

“In Genesis we are mandated to care for our natural world,” says Hoover. “Being made in God’s image, we have a unique responsibility to serve the natural world as much as serving our brothers and sisters.”

Foster echoes this with explaining “being green” as an expression of God’s image bearers.

“It goes beyond the secular world.

The Bible calls me to be more than ‘being green’- to be a steward, care

Department chair of Nutrition and Dietetics, Kay Witt, reminds us that being stewards and caring for creation also includes taking care of yourself. Being thankful is a critical attitude, and seeking God’s kingdom through healthy food choices while simultaneously loving our neighbor by buying food grown and prepared in ways where workers are treated well is key.

“People need to be educated, and sustainability should be incorporated into every major”

“Our bodies are included in creation, and it is important we have healthy and sustainable diets,” Witt says. “We are called to be responsible stewards and should invest in foods that don’t deplete the earth.”

Sustainable living and investing to gain knowledge of how to be a better steward for our Earth integrates into various fields of study.

“People need to be educated, and sustainability should be incorporated into every major- it should be in everything else, not its own thing,” says Megerle.

“Our generation grew up in a weird in-between - we take how clean our environment is for granted, but that doesn’t mean the work is done.”

Jessalyn Megerle being green

SBM 21

Culture

Tips on

BEING GREEN Recycle: Don’t order to-go containers if you’re eating at the Union or Falcon.

Carpool:

Even though they’re organic, it is still wasteful when you can just use a plate.

limit driving when possible, bike or use Zipcar.

Use your smartphone in a smart way: Keurig cups are awful: use reusable k-cups or none at all, they create a lot of waste.

22 APR 2016

not just your water bottle. separate different items into the correct bins; waste, recycling and organic.

smartphones leave a huge carbon footprint, less is more for the environment!

Culture

Be on the look out for “greenwashing” products - often companies will seal a label with a fresh looking farm or green leaves to give the appearance of being sustainable or “green.” Some good labels to look for are Rainforest Alliance Certify, Fair Trade, FSC (paper products) and NonGMO Project.

Compost: use the compost buckets the Sustainability Office hands out.

Just take out your compost often.

Shop: Eat less meat: you don’t have to go cold turkey on the meat, but a decrease in meat in your diet will help health and the environment.

at local farmers markets and invest in organic products.

Ask questions!

Go to the office of Sustainability or ask multiple professors from all different fields.

SBM 23

Sports & Rec

Men’s Club Volleyball

Seeking God, Competition and a National Championship photo From travis hoover

BY MADELINE CROCENZI When most students think of the Men’s Club Volleyball team, it’s a safe bet they picture the annual competitive game against Penn State. This year, as students packed the stands and stormed the court after an exciting win, they caught a glimpse of the team’s talent. However, many people don’t understand the true underlying spirit of this club team.

The Men’s Club Volleyball team won three National Collegiate Volleyball Federation (NCVF) championships in 2008, 2013 and 2014. The team also won 10 MAC championships, the last being in 2014. In 2015, the team was ranked number one in the NCVF’s Men’s Division II bracket.

“We’ve had a really good year every single year,” junior libero Cole Hoover says. “We had solid senior classes and junior classes that were able to lead us to multiple national championships and it’s been a really great atmosphere here at Messiah.”

The team’s success stems from a long season packed with hard work. Although the official season begins in early February and ends at the beginning of April, the

24 APR 2016

men begin practicing in October. They try to practice four times a week to prepare for the season, which includes seven official matches and six tournaments.

“A lot goes into our success,” junior setter Nick Weaver says. “Two of the biggest things are our commitment to getting together on a regular basis to practice and our team’s depth. We have a bunch of talented players on the team beyond the starters who really push the team to be better.”

As a club team, the 17 players have additional responsibilities beyond just showing up to practice. They have less access to equipment than NCAA recognized teams.

Yet, they make many of the same sacrifices on campus as NCAA recognized teams make. President and captain, Jared Hunsinger, is also in charge of running the team’s website and social media accounts.

They say they’re lucky to have talented volunteer coach, Jerry Porr. Porr has been with the team for more than 15 years and previously played on an Olympic level volleyball team.

“Many club teams don’t even have a coach because there is not money in the budget to hire one,” sophomore team Vice President and right side hitter Travis Hoover says. “Our club team is lucky to have such a good coach. At NCAA matches and tournaments, there are more paid officials than at club events. At club tournaments, players do most of the refereeing.”

Weaver says a big difference between NCAA teams and club teams is the commitment level.

“While our team is very committed to getting together and playing, most club teams (from other schools) are less focused on having practices and being together as a team,” Weaver says. “On the other hand, most institutions are less involved with their club teams, allowing us more freedom to pick our own coaches, our own opponents and our own jerseys.”

This year the team is looking forward to the Mid-Atlantic Collegiate Volleyball Conference (MACVC) championships on

Sports & Rec

April 2 and the NCVF National Tournament in Louisville, Kentucky on April 7-9.

“Our goal is to win it all, which will be no easy task for us,” Weaver says. “I think if we can build off our performance against Penn State, we have a great chance to achieve our goal.”

“We just have to play relaxed and remember that we’re all going to make mistakes at some point,” Travis Hoover says.

“Most of us tend to get really down on ourselves after a few errors, but we have to learn how to simply enjoy each game and play for God, not just the victory.”

Despite the competitive nature of the game, the players say the team is simply a group of friends playing a sport they love.

“I’d say we’re just a bunch of guys who love volleyball and like to have fun,” Cole Hoover says. “We’re just looking to have some good time playing volleyball and playing quality volleyball. We like to goof off a lot.”

Whether it’s setting up a court on Bittner beach, giving haircuts or performing at coffeehouse, the players say they’re one big family.

“When you play a sport you’re going to see the good and bad in your teammates,” Weaver says. “But having these men of God by your side to support you through these times and encourage you to grow not just in your athletic abilities but in your spiritual life is more than I could have ever asked for.”

To follow the team on their journey to Nationals check out their website: http://messiahmensclubvolleyball.webs.com.

“Having these men of God by your side to support you through these times and encourage you to grow not just in your athletic abilities but in your spiritual life is more than I could have ever asked for.”

SBM 25

Sports & Rec

The

Life of a

Trainer

BY WILLIE HOPE

They get to watch every game in one of the best seats in the house. However, their experience is a little different from those involved in the game, and they also have one of the most important jobs of anyone involved in a sporting event.

That’s right; it’s the trainer’s turn for the spotlight.

An athletic trainer’s perspective of the game is a little different from what coaches, players and referees see.

“We’re watching behind the play, seeing how guys are moving and analyzing a different aspect of the game,” Head Athletic Trainer Jeremy Kauffman says.

“You have to not only pay attention to the play that is going on in front of you, but you have to be aware of the other players on the court or field that might not directly be involved in the play,” junior athletic training student Dan Chapman adds. Chapman aspires to be like his teacher, Kauffman, and work as an athletic trainer at a small NCAA college.

“As a fan watching from home you have the benefit of instant replay, but when you are there, live, you only get one shot of seeing an injury,” Chapman says.

26 APR 2016

In addition to not getting quite the normal view, athletic trainers do not have particularly normal work schedules. Trainers often become used to long days and stretching themselves in different directions.

“It’s not a desk job, or a 9-5 job,” Kauffman says. “Athletic trainers are always on someone else’s schedule, trying to maintain a personal life schedule with responsibilities.

Sometimes, trainers are the first people to show up and the last people to leave.”

Athletic trainers can be undervalued at times as well. “There’s certainly coaches out there that think that an athletic trainer’s job is to keep people off the field and want to circumvent their decision-making processes,” Kauffman says.

Chapman adds, “The main reason that undervaluing occurs is because many coaches and players are still unsure of what athletic trainers actually do.”

But what people don’t realize is athletic trainers are so much more; there’s a side of them not many people see. “Being an athletic trainer is one of those professions where you’re a jack of all trades,” Kauffman explains. “We wear a bunch of different hats, help with different areas.”

From being a physical therapist, EMT, psychologist, mentor and teacher, trainers do it all. While Chapman is still learning all these aspects of the job, Kauffman is more experienced. As Head Athletic Trainer, Kauffman gives rehab exercise to athletes who are recovering from injuries, diagnoses injuries during and after games and teaches classes to athletic

Sports & Rec training students.

“One of my favorite parts of being a student athletic trainer is being able to take classes that are very hands on instead of the normal lecture style that many other classes are set up like,” Chapman says.

Classes are intentionally structured this way to prepare students for the unexpected.

“You never know what’s coming,” Kauffman says. “There are new challenges and opportunities in this job every day.”

One of the more serious hats athletic trainers wear is the job of a psychologist.

Trainers are usually one of the first people a player sees when they go down with an injury. They see players after serious, season or career ending injuries when people are at their most vulnerable.

“It’s rewarding interacting with different athletes, being more than just a trainer,” Kauffman adds.

Athletic trainers might seem like they’re just enjoying the game, especially one where everyone stays healthy. But after looking beyond the surface, one can see that athletic trainers are huge additions to any team. So, let’s stop overlooking them and give it up for the athletic trainers.

“It’s rewarding interacting with different athletes, being more than just a trainer”

“As a trainer, you see people at their worse,” Kauffman says. “Helping someone going from losing their athletic identity to seeing them get their joy back in getting back on playing on the field is a big perk.”

Another one of Kauffman’s favorite parts of the job is traveling with teams. In the past, he has been with the basketball and baseball teams on their previous trips to Florida.

“You get to see the guys in a different element than they are on the field, an experience not a lot of other people get,” Kauffman explains. “They have more to them than a sport aspect.”

Although athletic trainers may be viewed in a different light by most coaches and players, Kauffman has been fortunate at Messiah. “The coaches that I’ve worked with see me as an extension of their staff,” he says.

At the end of the day, both Kauffman and Chapman enjoy athletic training. “It is fascinating to be able to learn how intricate God created our bodies,” Chapman says.

SBM 27

Sports & Rec

Sp

g n ri

into Sports

BY WILLIE HOPE

With the cold weather finally behind us (we’re praying), it’s time for students to go outside and get active. Messiah students love to get out and play outside their dorms and all around campus. If you’re stuck on what to do, here are a few activities to take part in while out in the sun this spring.

The

most popular sport on campus is, of course, soccer. Whether students are playing for a national championship or pride, soccer seems to be “Messiah’s pastime.”

“It’s fun because everyone does it,” Brandon Herr, a sophomore and member of the Messiah Men’s Club Soccer team says. “It’s sort of a tradition at Messiah, and everyone, good or bad, loves to play.”

Besides soccer, another sport has been steadily rising in popularity across the U.S. and at Messiah -- Ultimate Frisbee. Many Messiah students are on the Ultimate Frisbee bandwagon and in 2004, Messiah started their own Ultimate Frisbee Club team. When the sun comes out, students, and especially Naugle freshmen, hit the lawn for a game frisbee.

While frisbee and soccer are some of the more popular sports on campus, there’s another sport people love to play, but Messiah doesn’t offer. Most students have seen the hilarious Messiah football shirts in the campus store; however Messiah students do enjoy throwing a football around, even if it isn’t for a recognized team. Flag football in the fall is a popular recreation sport, so it’s no surprise when students get outside in the spring as well to enjoy the game.

28 APR 2016

“I absolutely love going outside and throwing the ball around,” sophomore Noah Cable says. “Especially on weekends when there’s more time to relax.”

Soccer, football and frisbee are all more popular sports in the U.S. However, Messiah students also expand their horizons with other less popular sports.

Canoeing and kayaking are widely popular on campus, thanks to the Yellow Breeches.

These activities are a part of the Adventure Education major, but students can also sign up for weekend kayaking trips with The Loft or the Outdoors Club.

Sophomore Lauren Bontrager went on a kayaking trip with The Loft last spring.

“The trip was so much fun. It was relaxing, and nice to meet new people,” Bontrager says.

There are so many other outdoor sports and activities for students to try on and off campus. What are you waiting for?

Get outside and play!

Sports & Rec

Life of a Decathlete

Track and field’s decathlon.

10 events, 2 days.

Well, I guess you could say it’s a busy life, but in my mind, it’s fun and challenging.

BY AARON GRAY We start with a warm-up as a team and we pray before we start our workouts. Then it’s time to go to work. Practices are spent going from the pole vault runway to the high jump pads to the long jump pit.

Basically we’re running all over the place.

We practice a few events each day, spending the most time where we feel we need the most improvement.

Workouts are typically spent covered in sweat from sprints or from running mid-distance. We spend a lot of time practicing technique and taking a lot of reps to develop muscle memory, so that we don’t have to think, we just do. After all that we like to call our throwing days our “recovery” days.

event you can only really take in the excitement from that for a short time before you then have to focus on the next event.

This is all a part of the mental aspect. It carries over from pregame into the meet.

The life of a decathlete is challenging, but very rewarding. You get to meet a lot of different athletes and work with multiple coaches. Being a decathlete really allows you to see track and field from almost every aspect. I hope to keep improving in my events and become a better decathlete every time I step up to compete.

A lot of time after practice is spent eating dinner in Lottie and then eating second dinner in the Union. Food is important since I burn a lot of calories during practice.

In the days before a decathlon we take a lot of time to physically prepare, but also to mentally prepare. The mental aspect of the game is more important than a lot of people think. We take some time to run through the events in our head and we write down a schedule for ourselves for meet days. We list goals for all 10 events and give ourselves reminders for what we need to focus on.

On meet day, everyone is focused. Most of us have our headphones in, or we’ll sleep on the way to the meet. Once we’re there we never look back. A big part of the decathlon is separating each event and not letting one bad performance carry over into the next event. And even if you have a really good performance in one

You can come out and see Aaron participate in the decathlon on April 7-9 when Messiah hosts their home track meet.

SBM 29

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