Conversations

Readers share feedback on recent stories about Bob Jones University, anti-grooming laws

Compiled by Ed Stych

EDITOR’S NOTE: From time to time we will publish letters and emails we get from readers, edited for length, sometimes with a response, sometimes without comment. If you would like to share your thoughts about any of our stories or podcasts, please email us: [email protected]

False reports aim to divide Bob Jones University

I have read several articles published on your website about the status of Bob Jones University. It would be good for you to know that there continues to be a small group of dissenters who will go to no length to accuse and try to take over or close the school.

Several of them have given their names in this last report and are the same ones who love to post on Facebook or produce videos stating their cause. Camille Lewis, who was mentioned, is supposed to be writing a “tell all” book some time this year. (I am told that she was once on staff many years ago and now lives to try to discredit the school.)

I can’t tell you how devilish all of this false and slanderous reporting is. Beware!

The present president, Josh Crockett, pastors a church not far from our own church and is a godly man but just needs added help in the way of sharing some of the responsibility at the university — simple as that.

Many, many of us are so sad and grieved at the division and chaos these dissenters are “trying” to cause. I am an alumnus. We live close by, are very connected with the school, and have many students, teachers and staff who attend our church. We know them well. They are some of the most godly folks I have ever met.

Those who would like to break this apart must not have much else to do with their lives. Satan is roaring and would like to devour. The talk of “closing” is the propaganda this group is trying to broadcast.

As the saying goes, “If you hear an untruth long enough, you will begin to believe it!” Don’t believe it! God is working all things to His glory as this school and any school has to reevaluate and adjust as it continues its journey. Too bad social media exposes private dealings for all the world to see even when such propaganda is not embodied in truth!!

Most sincerely,

Elaine Kelly Raw, via email

Will anti-grooming laws actually prevent abuse?

I know you’re just reporting on anti-grooming laws, but for my 2 cents, this is crazy!

I have been a board member for a national anti-child-abuse organization. I have given church training sessions on protecting children. I’ve even been used by my DA’s office dealing with church and CSA. I have given community presentations on keeping children safe. I am for anything that can stop abuse.

Granted, there are some actions that clearly violate decency and should be illegal.

In a lot of cases, they’re going to have to prove intent — to prosecute people on what we think they might do. Good luck with that.

There are some people who believe that allowing your daughter to wear certain clothes in public would be “enticing them to engage in specific conduct.” Or that sex education could be grooming. Or even teaching children the correct terminology for body parts is predatory behavior.

I’d love it if you would keep an eye on these laws to see if anyone is ever charged with this as a stand-alone crime — if it is ever used to stop a predator before they actually act.

Thanks.

Rev. Edwin McGee, via email

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