Samford’s chapter of the International Justice Mission has consistently dedicated itself to spreading awareness of human trafficking across the globe and has put forth tremendous work this semester into planning events and opportunities for students to fundraise and get involved. On the evening of Tuesday Feb. 28, IJM hosted an event titled “Christianity and Justice,” a preview to IJM’s mission statement, and an invitation for students to learn more.
The doors opened just before 5 p.m. in Brock Forum for students to come in, grab free tacos, and chat with the IJM executives before the event started.
“We loved getting to offer dinner and convo and bring people in that are not usually involved in IJM,” Membership and Outreach Coordinator Elizabeth Dunbar said. “We are so grateful for everyone that came last night and are excited for the new members that joined!”
IJM Samford President Allison Middendorf gave a few opening words before playing a 20-minute video produced by IJM, which highlighted victim’s stories, the history of the organization and most significantly the gospel-oriented nature of IJM’s calling, during which Christ was regarded as the world’s greatest human-rights activist.
After the movie, participants were asked to group up with nearby audience members to discuss personal questions of faith, justice and conviction, the final question being: “How do you see the Lord calling you to play an active role in the fight for justice in your own life?”
After discussion, Vice President Bethany Waters shared a few words about her personal calling to fight for justice.
“I have a deep personal conviction about justice and how justice relates to my faith as a Christian,” Waters said. “I think a lot of times we can separate the idea of being a Christian with the pursuit of justice, but truly if you read the Bible for yourself you can see that the God of the Bible is a God of justice.”
Afterwards, Middendorf closed the event in prayer, and announced a few more upcoming events that IJM will be putting on this semester, including: a Letter-Writing Campaign on March 16 in Harry’s Coffeehouse, a fundraiser event at the Vestavia Chipotle on March 21 and a Taco Mama fundraiser April 17.
After “Christianity and Justice” ended, Dunbar shared a few of her reflections.
“The biggest highlight [of this event] is just getting to share more about how God is a just and loving father and we are called to do justice and live in love,” she said. “I hope the biggest outcome is that [students] walk away understanding that pursuing justice starts and continues with a foundation of prayer because we know it is His battle, not our own.”
Staff Writer
