Sunday, March 8, 2009

The Greek Church

Christianity if not other religious elements have been significantly erased from mainstream fraternities, when once many mainstream fraternities required adherence to that belief system and most fraternities had Christian terminology throughout their rituals. Perhaps this was overzealous, replacing one purported version of discrimination with another. A number of chapters have either privately held to or went back to their old rituals to continue defiance of the political correctness of earlier eras. Others have held fast to their fraternities' founders causes and faith in whatever form.

Reaching heights of ridiculousness in selective religious persecution, several groups wanted Lambda Chi Alpha to change its cross and crescent symbolism. Less the college fraternities feel solely persecuted, the Shriners have also been pressured to rid themselves of their religious inspired regalia.

Finally, the Jesus worshipers are trying to link up and at Kent State University (yes, that Kent State). Greeks are looking to jettison the "we just party-hearty image" and get spend some time with as a crowd doing something new. Participating members are teaming up with The Dive, a student organization at Kent State representing the ubiquitous Campus Crusade for Christ, or CCC. An organizational meeting took place Tuesday, which sought to leverage the active memberships and social organization of all participants to create a more cohesive community.

The initiative is the be brainchild of the auspiciously named Mike Love, currently on the faculty at Kent State, an active participant in The Dive, and almunus of Delta Tau Delta. Easing greeks into the religious setting was key: "Greeks also like to hang out in big groups, so this is the perfect event," Mr Love said. Perhaps "flock," would be the apt technical terminology.

The response is already strong. Delta Gamma housed the organizational meeting, which was hosted by members of Tau Kappa Epsilon and Alpha Xi Delta. Several greeks said they are already involved in The Dive, and would welcome greater synergy among their groups. "We want to break barriers between The Dive and Greeks," explained Mr Love. "Greeks feel comfortable hanging out with Greeks, so this is a great way to attract people to our message." A Delta Tau Delta undergrad already involved in The Dive agreed that "this is a good time to hang out with fellow Greeks while hearing an awesome message." He probably meant "awesome" literally.

Kent News Net

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