In our Easter worship I shared the story of Ryan Rotela, the Florida Atlantic University student who was suspended from class because he failed to obey an assignment given by his professor. The professor asked the students to write the name "JESUS" across a sheet of paper, place the paper on the ground and then stomp on it. While most of the class went right ahead, Ryan refused. He was not willing to disgrace his Lord or mock his faith! Fortunately, he was later reinstated to the class.
As part of our Easter service, I asked you to write the word JESUS on a sheet of paper and then write some word of your love for him. This afternoon we are sending those, nearly 700, to the school! I thought I might share with you the letter I am sending along as well:
"Dear President Saunders,
I want to begin by thanking you and the leadership of FAU for reinstating Mr. Ryan Rotela following the much publicized incident in which students were asked to stomp on the name of Jesus. This was the correct action and we appreciate your response.
This past Easter Sunday morning, we shared this story with our congregation and I asked each person to write the name "Jesus" on a piece of paper and then some other word expressing their sentiments about Christ. I invited them to bring them to the altar and shared with them our plan to forward them to you. Our only desire in doing this is to let you and the professor know that there are several hundred people at Sugarloaf United Methodist Church that think Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to the world and our desire is that all one day come to love him and embrace his truth! We are sure your school is comprised of many students and faculty who share our belief.
Again, please know how grateful we are for your response to the unfortunate and insensitive class assignment. We don't personally know Mr. Rotela, but it seems he has demonstrated a level of character and commitment to his faith that should serve as an inspiration to us all!
In Christ's Service,
Stuart Greene
Senior Pastor
