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College Bans National Anthem
Goshen College, a Mennonite school in Indiana, has created outrage over its decision to ban the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events because it conflicts with their core values.
“We recognize that some people may not be satisfied with this decision, but we believe it is the right one for Goshen College,” said Ricky Stiffney, chairman of the college’s board of directors, in a written statement. “The Board has a diversity of views on this issue as reflected through the process of considering the anthem.”
According to an online fact sheet on the issue, the college noted: “Historically, playing the national anthem has not been among Goshen College’s practices because of our Christ-centered core value of compassionate peacemaking seeming to be in conflict with the anthem’s militaristic language.”
The Mennonite Church is historically a peace church but does not have an official position on playing the national anthem.
“It’s obviously about a battle,” Goshen College art professor John Blosser told Fox News Radio. “It’s rather violent. It’s about using violence to conquer and that would be something that many people here would have problems with.”
Last year, the college decided to allow the playing of an instrumental version of the song at sporting events – but ultimately school officials decided to outright ban the national anthem.
“Goshen College has been and remains a ministry of Mennonite Church USA with an enduring peace tradition,” said Carlos Romero, executive director of the Mennonite Education Agency, in a written statement. “The Board’s decision reflects a belief that faith and honoring country can co-exist without disturbing higher allegiances to God and that Goshen College will become increasingly diverse and will welcome diverse viewpoints.”
The decision was overwhelmingly supported by students, but not by community residents.
Goshen City Councilman Harland Lantz told Fox News Radio that the decision is “anti-American.”
“It really hurts,” he said. “(The national anthem) is the American way.”
“Instead of living here in Goshen, they should go down and live in Cuba or Iran,” he said. “Then have them come back and see if their attitude has changed.”
Donald Riegsecker, another city councilman, agreed.
“People are disappointed,” he said. “I’m starting to wonder if it’s not more about politics than theology.”
“It seems like students have been taught since high school more liberal views than conservative views,” he said. “By the time they hit college, they’re thinking more liberal and by the time they get out of college they’re really liberal. That’s the way the professors tend to lead them.”
Riegsecker said he wished “teachers would just teach and professors would just teach and let kids make their decisions on their own as to what their politics are and what they believe.”
Professor Blosser disputed any notion the college is anti-American.
“This is not an anti-patriotic thing,” he said. “It does not make us communist just because we take a stand against that particular point of view. As an educated person, I don’t always stand where the government takes a stand.”
Fred
June 7, 2011 at 1:17 pm
Bombs bursting in air can be construed as fireworks, not bombs in war. How much more do we tolerate before we finally lose our country to these left wing idiots? More and more conservative Americans need to run for local office and begin to change things back to a more simpler, enjoyable time that us older folks remember.
Ted
June 7, 2011 at 10:21 pm
Bombs bursting in air COULD mean fireworks, but in the case of the Star-Spangled banner, Francis Scott Key was very clearly witnessing a battle.
m444ss
June 8, 2011 at 4:31 pm
No, bombs bursting in air cannot be construed as fireworks. The Star Spangled Banner is a poem by Francis Scott Kay about the British Navy attack on Fort McHenry in Baltimore, MD. Bombs bursting in air are, in fact, British ship-to-shore artillary rounds.
Ted from Iowa
June 8, 2011 at 10:32 pm
Fireworks?… Really? You think you’re more educated than the students at Goshen College? And tell me this how is playing a song at a sporting event a more simpler way of life?
Steve
November 6, 2012 at 5:02 pm
Regardless of what you think of the school's decision, "bombs bursting in air" clearly has nothing to do with fireworks and everything to do with British naval cannons firing on Fort McHenry in Baltimore, MD.
elephant4life
June 7, 2011 at 2:32 pm
One has to wonder what flavor of American history is being taught in that so-called educational institution, if they are so offended by the commemorative words of an observer of a battle fought to preserve our country – and theirs – from the British invasion and challenge to our sovereignty. This is nothing short of reprehensible, and has nothing to do with their religious views, which in any other nation on earth would not be so freely expressed.
Don Blosser
June 7, 2011 at 3:52 pm
As a Peace Church Institution, Goshen College has always believed that war is not the way for God's children. This is a
strong historic Biblical/Theological belief, and has been a central conviction since the Mennonite Church began in 1525 in Europe.
When people try to dismiss it as being simply political, they are sadly missing the essential nature of Mennonite theology. This guides how we live. We also have a long history of people who have served the country in which they live through medical, social, educational and business contributions. It is a very narrow view that believes the only way one can do good for your country is to buy into a nationalistic, militaristic way of solving problems. Actively working for peace is a legitimate role for any citizen,and might in fact have better long term outcomes than assuming guns and bombs are the best solution for every problem.
Mennonites generally believe that following the teachings of Jesus even in the face of popular national values is the right way to give witness to our faith.
Guest
June 13, 2011 at 1:41 pm
. Preach on, Bro. Don. You have a perspective that needs to be spread far and wide
Tec from Iowa
June 8, 2011 at 10:35 pm
I don't need to say anything here, Don said it all.
Richard Aguirre
June 7, 2011 at 2:42 pm
Todd: While I appreciate your story, the suggestion that the anthem no longer will be played because of the lyrics of the Star-Spangled Banner is inaccurate. The Board of Directors did not reach that conclusion. In fact, the Board stated that continuing to play the national anthem compromised the college's ability to advance the vision of the college serving a theologically, politically, racially and ethnically diverse constituency both within and beyond the Mennonite church. In other words, our core constituents were divided on this issue for a variety of reasons. But no judgment was made about whether the lyrics were an issue. And the Board specifically asked the President to find an alternative that "honors country." Thanks.
Richard Aguirre, director of public relations at Goshen College.
Heather Saylor
June 8, 2011 at 1:29 am
HUH? What you just said makes your argument even more ridiculous & obviously just another liberal spew about 'diversity'. My fiance went to a sister Mennonite college & is appalled at this…If the issue is not the lyrics–then what the heck is it? The sound of the music?? And, hello??There were battles after battles fought & retold IN THE BIBLE-with God blessing His people–ever heard of THE BATTLE OF JERICHO?????? & have you never read REVELATIONS?? I guess you wont be fighting that battle either!!
LAS
June 7, 2011 at 2:48 pm
Do these "leaders and educators" of American youth realize if they fail to teach real history of this country including the revolutions that provided the great place they take advantage of living in the end lesson will be one of the hardest of all for them to adapt and understand. The creators and promoters of this mentality are the simple minded advancement of the Obama Pawn Syndrome. This syndrome, now in its making is depleting, honor and pride and another step to a dictatorship. This dictatorship, in the making is running slow and smooth knocking some to their knees through unemployment, foreclosure, welfare and bailouts will soon, if left in the current path will succeed. DUMP EM' VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ted from Iowa
June 8, 2011 at 10:41 pm
Question…Where in this article do you see any trace of evidence that the students of Goshen College have had a poor history education? And secondly even if they did have a poor history education what does that have to do with this?
PBM
June 7, 2011 at 3:14 pm
Idiots. The song is not about using violence to conquer. The song is making the statement that the flag and the values it stands for cannot be conquered. It survivies even the most deadly attacks. Perhaps the folks at Goshen College can't read or lack the intelligence to understand what they are reading.
Ted from Iowa
June 8, 2011 at 10:45 pm
Idiot!!! can you really sit there with a straight face and make that comment? It is a war song. War is violent.
And "The song is making the statement that the flag and the values it stands for cannot be conquered." This is an interpretation of the song, apparently you are the one who can't read…
Chimpy Yellowcake
June 22, 2011 at 9:45 am
How about the lines:
Then conquer we must, for our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust;”
Sure sounds like a song about conquest to me
Richard Aguirre
June 7, 2011 at 3:25 pm
Todd: While I appreciate your story, the suggestion that the anthem no longer will be played because of the lyrics of the Star-Spangled Banner is inaccurate. The Board of Directors did not reach that conclusion. In fact, the Board stated that continuing to play the national anthem compromised the college's ability to advance the vision of the college serving a theologically, politically, racially and ethnically diverse constituency both within and beyond the Mennonite church. In other words, our core constituents were divided on this issue for a variety of reasons. But no judgment was made about whether the lyrics were an issue. And the Board specifically asked the President to find an alternative that "honors country." Thanks.
Richard Aguirre
June 7, 2011 at 4:07 pm
Please read the actual news release to learn why the Goshen College Board asked for an alternative to the anthem that honors country: http://www.goshen.edu/news/pressarchive/06-06-11-…
Richard Aguirre
June 7, 2011 at 4:07 pm
Come on, Fox, please approve my comment.
Rich
June 7, 2011 at 4:08 pm
prior alumni, should cut off contributions to the school. Same if there getting any govt funding!!
Al Mason
June 7, 2011 at 5:05 pm
Revoke their TAC FREE STATUS!!! Make them pay for everything that they have including the land they are on and tax all their income as though it is the business that it is. If they don't want to acknowledge the things that gives, gave, them freedom then take freedom away from them.
For college educators they don't think very smartly!!!
dks
June 7, 2011 at 5:26 pm
PBM wrote "Idiots. The song is not about using violence to conquer. The song is making the statement that the flag and the values it stands for cannot be conquered. It survivies even the most deadly attacks. Perhaps the folks at Goshen College can't read or lack the intelligence to understand what they are reading."
PBM, the college hasn't attacked anyone's intelligence nor have they called anyone who disagrees an idiot. Challenge yourself and show a little respect.
dks
June 7, 2011 at 5:32 pm
elephant4life re: "This is nothing short of reprehensible, and has nothing to do with their religious views,"
So if it's not based on the College's or Mennonites' religious views, what is it based on?
Dave
June 7, 2011 at 5:56 pm
Well done. Good for you – it's about time we all stood up to realize we're not alone in the world.
Protector
June 7, 2011 at 6:37 pm
Time is Now! to take our stand and be counted once more like we before in the service of our Country. If they continue down this path of anti-Christian and anti-America they will find themselves on the out side looking in . We swear allegiance to only one Republic if you want to continue to live here period!
The Patriot
June 7, 2011 at 6:58 pm
If any of the idiots at that school had bothered to read the history behind our national anthem, it's the story of how brave Americans withstood a British attack on Ft. McHenry, Baltimore, MD during the War of 1812. We fought to resist being conquered by the British. The Mennonites are free to practice their religion and run our country down because of the efforts of better people than them, Americans who served, fought, and died defending our freedoms. But I guess that isn't good enough for Goshen College.
Denise
June 7, 2011 at 7:11 pm
Whoa. I think some people need to take a few minutes and learn a little about the anabaptist/mennonite faith. To say that these people are uneducated, can't read, are liberal, or otherwise belittle them because of this issue is to show complete ignorance or misunderstanding of their faith. It takes a lot of courage to take such an unpopular position.
Mennonites are part of the larger anabaptist group which includes horse and buggy amish. I don't think most people would accuse them of being liberal. But, you won't find the Amish playing the national anthem either. I'm adding this example simply to show that it is not a liberal political issue, but one of genuine faith.
fed-up American
June 9, 2011 at 1:59 am
Yea sorry but its a liberal arts school and the acknowledge the fact that they are liberal.
wikied
June 10, 2011 at 1:38 pm
the "liberal" in "liberal arts" does not stand for politically liberal. It is an expression denoting open education that has existed since the 5th century AD, before there was such a thing as liberals and conservatives. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberal_arts
Alex Hamilton, Th.D
June 7, 2011 at 7:25 pm
Anyone who thinks God is never in agreement with war should check First Samuel 15:2-3 and related Scriptures in His Book (the Bible). And if you think Jesus is only about "peace no matter what", check His own words in Matt. 10:34 and note the description of Him in Isaiah 63:3 and Rev. 19:13, where He is drenched with the blood of His enemies after slaughtering them up close and personally (the blade of a sword was only about 18 inches long). Jesus shall bring peace, yes, but only after the end of a "war to end all wars".
Tom Jefferson, Th.D
June 13, 2011 at 3:29 pm
I think any orthodox Christians would agree that Christ will return to right the world of injustice, Alex (as you quoted in Revelation). Anabaptists (Mennonites, Amish, Brethren) see Jesus as the "author and perfecter of faith" meaning Jesus is not only savior and Lord, but Jesus also taught how Christians should daily live their lives (see the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5,6,7) . Because Jesus is Lord, he is the final authority on what is right and wrong. But I think what is most important is that Christians are told to live out their faith with "fear and trembling." If anything, even if God is violent, the Biblical text expressly forbids such judgement to be carried out on behalf of God.
So it's not so much about whether God is against war, but rather if its its acceptable for Christians to participate. And agree to disagree, but the first amendment thankfully protects religious freedom. Thus, any assault on Goshen College's individual rights is an assault on the first amendment itself. The athletic director at Howe Military academy in Indiana would agree as much, too (who, when asked whether a Mennonite high school should be allowed to host state tournaments because of the same reason, sided with the Mennonite school).
Joel
June 7, 2011 at 7:30 pm
Perhaps these peace loving Mennonites need to move to a land where freedom to worship with their brand of religion, was not won with the blood of patriots. Perhaps these separatist need to not enjoy the privilege of a tax exempt status. Perhaps this college needs to also consider the spirituality of sports, as they could be considered a form of competion that plants a seed of "battling" for a conquest against an opponent. This is a sad and insulting example of religious self-righteous piety. These spiritual ones need to be rendering unto Caesar what is Caesar's, in my Jesus and Country loving, veteran of the US Army's opinion. Only a boycott against anything that has to do with this school will make any difference to their elitist, or delusional humble mindsets.
Tom Jefferson
June 13, 2011 at 3:35 pm
regardless of your opinion, anyone who seriously opposes limits on someone else's freedom of religion is not a true patriot. You have the right to boycott someone, but threaten their rights of religious beliefs tears apart anything of value that makes this country great.
Geo
June 7, 2011 at 7:42 pm
If you ban the Star-Spangled Banner Then you are as bad as the Atheist that try to ban God fm all Christians. George
Tom Jefferson
June 13, 2011 at 3:40 pm
Because you can only be Christian if you've heard the star spangled banner. Forget the billion other Christians outside the US.
You might have a valid point if the school wasn't a private religious school.
CWayne
June 7, 2011 at 7:58 pm
shut the school down!!!!!!!!
East Coast
June 7, 2011 at 8:36 pm
So, Goshen College does not have the freedom to decide NOT to play the national anthem? Is that what I'm to take from these comments? Because if America stands for freedom, even religious freedom, we must allow religions the freedom to practice as they will. They aren't hurting anyone. They are simply following what they believe God has called them to: a single allegiance, not to the flag, but to Christ.
USRt11
June 7, 2011 at 8:56 pm
The Alumni will NOT cut off funding because most were raised in Mennonite Churches (MC). They are "non-resistant" – based on Jesus' in Matthew chapter 5.
Historically, they don't recognize any state govenment. Many Anabaptists/Mennonites were killed for sedition in Cathoilic countries during the Potestant Reformation.
Mennonites are a "peace church." They are COs. Some serve in "alternative service." During WWII many served in hospitals and other non-combat situations.
However, since the 1960's, the historic position of loving your enemies outlook has been co-opted by political leftests, the anti-war crowd hippies. Most Bible believing Mennonites are NOT political activists. They see demonstrations as violent and contradictory.
They don't vote or support political parties.
You will not find an American flag, nor will you hear the National Anthem at a Mennonite institution.
They are different from state funded schools. The colleges don't accept federal money. But their students gain gov't loans for tutition.
USRt11
June 7, 2011 at 9:01 pm
Don Blosser is accurate in his summation. This is the traditional position among Mennonites.
Phil
June 7, 2011 at 9:08 pm
I graduated from Goshen College as a non-traditional student and am very saddened by todays news. I have cut all ties to the college I once loved and now see why so many prospective high school seniors choose other inistitutions. Enrollment continues to decrease as the college continues it liberal ways.
jdzito
June 7, 2011 at 9:26 pm
Just as I understand & respect there beliefs, they really need to understand that this country was forged thru war. Nobody likes war, However it is part of our history. Many Many men & women died for our freedom. Freedom isn’t free. If someone doesn’t want to have any respect for that then maybe they need to move somewhere else. You want to live in this country then respect this country.
Bob
June 7, 2011 at 11:39 pm
I appreate the Mennonite religious beliefs but how do they handle the fact that God slaughterd hundreds of thousands of people to punish them? Jesue is Gods son and God himself in the fleash of Jesus. Thus, Jesus?God is resposible for killings in the name of God!
Allen
June 8, 2011 at 12:42 am
What are "prior alumni"? Either one is an alum or one is not an alum. One can be a "prior student" but the term "alum" by definition makes one a "prior student." And bravo to Goshen for returning to their historical position on not playing the Star Spangled Banner before sporting contests. Not that I would expect Faux News to acknowledge the historical context in the harrumphing, manufactured outrage.
paul
June 8, 2011 at 1:47 am
Coming from a multi generational Mennonite family and being a Mennonite college alumni, I am completely embarrassed to hear of the Goshen college decision. You should be more concerned with the true principles of Mennonites–I can assure you MY children would not be allowed to attend this college–
Marc
June 11, 2011 at 12:01 am
Arguably this IS the true principles of Mennonites: resisting nationalistic tendencies and military movements by governments is what got your Mennonite ancestors kicked out of so many countries. It is something to be proud of: a fight for peace.
Joe (Loose) Cannon
June 8, 2011 at 6:14 am
Suggestions for sports opponents: when playing Goshen at your home, play our Anthem loud and long at every opportunity; when playing at Goshen, take along your own music and do the same; wear American flags on your uniforms. Am I being petty? Nope.
MennoniteGirl
June 8, 2011 at 11:59 am
Joe, I am a Mennonite & live & work in a Mennonite community similar to Goshen. I can say with confidence that your idea would meet no resistance. The Mennonites on campus & present at the game would likely stand for your playing of the anthem – whether at an away game (which they do – stand out of respect, I mean), or if you brought the music to their home field. This college & the Mennonite Church it represents is in no way "anti-anthem." They are simply overturning a decision made a year ago to begin playing the anthem. Historically they haven't. Not because they hate it or hate you or America, but because they (& I ) believe it is out of step with an allegiance to Christ alone & a mission of building peace in the global community.
You may disagree with that, which is fine. But I want you to know that the Goshen community will not hate you for hating them. That is fundamentally out of step with their faith. So bring a brass band to campus. You will find a warm welcome, students & faculty eager to meet you personally & open a dialogue with you in the name of Christ.
leciat
June 8, 2011 at 9:04 am
so they don't support our national anthem because of its violence, are they also opposed to the "violence" that took place to create this nation?
you know jesus said turn the other cheek he didn't say stand there and let them beat you to death
to leciat
June 10, 2011 at 11:57 pm
Actually, that is exactly what he did. He healed the roman soldier his disciples cut with a sword, and let himself be crucified, after being beaten in public. I am not sure where you find "fight back" in that.
"love thy enemy" is what he did say.
leciat
June 8, 2011 at 9:08 am
"Goshen College's core values and respects the views of diverse constituencies"
i would be interested to know who these "diverse constituencies" are that are offended by this song
Melva
June 8, 2011 at 11:40 am
As a former Mennonite, I am saddened by yet another liberal view. If it weren't for those who fought for our rights, you wouldn't be freely practicing your peace loving ways. I wonder if you are also teaching the Jews are wrong in defending their state as some of the Mennonites in my area are preaching. I have 2 nephews, one planning to go to Goshen College and one to a college in Cal. I have been praying for the one going to the secular school because of the views he will be subjected to but it appears prayers are needed for the same purpose for the one going to Goshen.
oh melva
June 9, 2011 at 2:02 am
Hey Melva, I see you popularly responded with the "fought for our rights" train. Did you ever think that one of the "rights" they fought for was freedom of religion and ability to express themselves according to the framers? Also, I will be praying for your grandson going to Goshen, its great that you pray for him, but have you ever thought about praying FOR him rather than praying for YOUR thoughts and expectations about him. You make me sad
Jerome McCollom
June 8, 2011 at 1:35 pm
They also decided to "ban" the playing of thousands of other sonds, including "Mary had a little lamb." Banning, meaning in the context of this headline, not playing. If someone wants to listen to the National Anthem, fine. They can listen to it before the start of the game on their Ipod. It's not as if this college is burning copies of the National Anthem. Our republic isn't at risk because they decided not to play it. So a small college decides not to play the anthem and it becomes a story? Sheesh. Are we going to go after people for not wearing flag pins now?
m444ss
June 8, 2011 at 3:08 pm
Not sure how anyone can fault Mennonites for an anti-violence stance, but the song isn't about violence. The song (or poem) is about an instance of perseverance in the face of violence by the by others. Despite the fierce attack by the British (THEIR bombs bursting in air), the Americans at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, MD, were able to withstand the attack (the flag was still there). This was symbolic of our nation, as a whole, being able to withstand such adversity (ostensibly, any adversity) and continue as a nation, which is why it is our national anthem.
A Leaf
June 8, 2011 at 8:16 pm
Re: Phil-
Sorry, but I don't know if I truly believe you graduated from GC. The only person here who I do believe knows about which they speak regarding GC is USRt11, given that he or she slipped and referred to "Don" Blosser (beloved Bible professor at GC who is not mentioned in the article) instead of "John" Blosser who is actually quoted in the article. Additionally, Phil, if you indeed graduated from GC, you would know that this new development re: the SSB is NOT, in fact, a "new" position. The GC position has ALWAYS been to refrain from playing the SSB before sporting events. Only last year did they start playing the musical version of the anthem. THAT is the decision they are changing, but your umbrage seems to be at the idea of not playing the SSB at all. If that's the case, where was your outrage during your time as an alleged student? Sorry, I don't buy it.
Additionally, let me see if I understand: we have freedoms as Americans guaranteed by our Constitution, but if one doesn't subscribe to the "correct" understanding of government, the military, etc., then one should forfeit said freedoms. Which is precisely the reason the Constitution was created in the first place. Got it. Tyranny of the majority…..look up how the Framers viewed it.
Some others have ignorantly and flippantly opined that GC should ban sports, including football, because sports are "simulated combat." If these people had a clue about GC specifically, and Mennos in general, they would know that this very theory is why there were no sports at GC until the mid-50s, that the starting of intercollegiate teams was highly controversial at the time, and that GC still does not field a football team because of their understanding of the dissonance between their theology and the overtly violent nature of the game.
Oh, and by the way – this GC alum had informed the college that I was cutting ties with the school LAST year when they caved to the Teatards' manufactured outrage. I will be writing personal letters of gratitude to each member of the Board of Trustees now, and my monetary support of the school will be restarted.
constitution counts
June 8, 2011 at 8:44 pm
USRt11, if you accept grants or funding from the federal government you are subject to "those that brung ya" rule. So the church has no say so the leftists do. Next the historical significance of the song and the places for which it references are of great historical significance to our countries history!!! To deny this song or show outrage is a slap in the face for all soldiers who have given their life so you can have this leftist freedom so you don't have to sing or play it . Your Miinonite way will dissapear from the face of the earth beacuse of this attitude.!! In case you cannot see the falling of the country your freedom of religion is next..just open your eyes and look.
ACD
June 9, 2011 at 11:21 am
To say Mennonites are anti-American is blowing things out of proportion. As pacifists they simply do not want to play a song that clashes with their beliefs. A message of hating America was never the intent. The fact that they love and are so committed to God that they put him before a nation's rituals should reflect faith that some people could and should learn a lesson from. Shame on you FOX News for attacking Christian values.
America Lover
June 9, 2011 at 2:14 pm
Why don't these idiots get it? America is the best, most awesome, greatest, best, good, exceptionally cool, sexiest, strongest, super best country God ever gave to this green earth!!! Just ask Sean Hannity. Obviously all other country's are worse than us. America is better than everyone else, Clearly Jesus said this, it's in the Bible. When he said love your enemies he really was saying love your enemies unless they aren't Americans, in that case then bomb them.
Bev
June 9, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Is it true that Goshen College allows Gay's and leabiens on campus and does not warn them of eternity and that it is a sin, but chooses to ban the national athem to be sung at ball games, I was raised a mennonite and it just about makes me ashamed to admit
ralph
June 9, 2011 at 6:24 pm
what kind of sporting event is nonviolent that they can play in their school. What are they playing tittley winks or jacks
Pete
June 9, 2011 at 9:11 pm
For Denise & USRt11 who states, "Most Bible believing Mennonites are NOT political activists. They see demonstrations as violent and contradictory. They don't vote or support political parties."
Apparently Mennonites in Goshen are not Bible believing since the Goshen mayor and several city councilmen/women are Mennonite. Goshen College students and faculty are known for being active Democrats and liberals.
mary
June 10, 2011 at 3:55 am
I think Goshen College better look at their core values more closely. This is the same college that my sister was going to back when streaking was in, the guys did it all the time. So much for core values
Denise
June 10, 2011 at 3:13 pm
To Fed Up American, there may be some confusion as to the meaning of a "liberal arts" school. Most colleges, besides technical, are liberal arts. Here's a quick web definition of a liberal arts program:
1. Academic subjects such as literature, philosophy, mathematics, and the sciences as distinct from professional and technical subjects.
That said, have they admitted to being politically liberal? I am not from the area and do not have experience with them. I know they can't be as conservative as the horse and buggy amish or they wouldn't even have a college to begin with.
Clair
June 13, 2011 at 2:07 pm
I just wish that all the naysayers here would ACTUALLY TAKE TIME TO READ THE TRUTH about the decision that was made by this private church-owned college that still flies the flag of the United States of America on its campus. (The college did NOT ban the national anthem.) Read: http://www.themennonite.org/issues/14-6/articles/…
Beth
June 14, 2011 at 8:25 am
Goshen College is part of the Mennonite Church USA network. Mennonites are a historical peace church, as are other anabaptist traditions such as Quaker, Bretthen and Brethren in Christ. We do learn US history and appreciate the sacrifices that have been made by the military to keep our country safe. However, we also believe that spending time getting to know others and what they need will help us to come to mutual understanding and perhaps avoid conflict in which innocent women and children are killed.
Beth
June 14, 2011 at 8:26 am
Do we realize there are those out there who could care less about getting to know us? Of course. We don't sit around with rose colored glasses but we do believe in trying to promote peaceful resolutions. Jesus himself said we should "do good to those who hate us." To whomever said the alumni should quit contributing, I think the majority of us were saddened when Goshen began to play the anthem and are relieved that the school's long standing tradition of not playing it has been reinstated. When asked to say the Pledge of Allegiance with my classes in public schools I do so. When at a public university do I stand when the anthem is played, yes.
Beth
June 14, 2011 at 8:26 am
This is about a private, church affiliated, schools freedom to follow their beliefs and the beliefs of those supporting them. To the Goshen council members, I believe that Goshen has always been a respectful, contributing presence in Goshen and the surrounding area. We, as students and alumni, have spent many weeks in countries facing political and social unrest and that has solidified our belief that there are ways other than violence to resolve conflict. Our allegiance is to God first and our actions reflect that.
Nate
June 14, 2011 at 7:39 pm
To me, it's not that surprising considering it's a Mennonite school. I wrote a commentary about this on another website. Here is the link: http://thisorthat.com/blog/college-stops-playing-…
Jennifer
August 25, 2011 at 1:48 am
I think it's time that the taxpayers STOP paying for this college.
Steve
November 6, 2012 at 5:07 pm
Just before I read this article, I played "The Star Spangled Banner" (by Madison Rising – check it out) on my laptop about ten times in a row…I'm a great fan of the song. With that said, I don't think those of us criticizing our government for attacking Christianity through Obamacare and other means should be criticizing the leadership of a private Mennonite college for exercising their 1st Amendment right (and private property rights) regarding their core religious belief against any form of violence.