A quick peek at the news cast tonight says we are entering the fourth resurgence of the COVID virus – a 22% spike – in the last several days. It seems as though the dark shroud of this virus will continue for a bit longer.
Even more disconcerting is the falling rate of religious participation in the United States. According to the Gallup organization, since the year 2000, there has been a 20% drop in attendance at churches, synagogues, and mosques. This means that the majority of Americans have no religious preference and do not practice faith.
COVID-19 has been a double-edged sword though. Although many have used the pandemic as a reason for “not” believing, or blaming God for their lot, others have seen it as a motivation to believe. There is no more powerful motivator than when something or someone mutes your relationships, takes a loved one, and brings chaos into your life. It gives us the opportunity to look up, to look outside of ourselves to find the One that is love, the one that is hope, and the one that restores faith.
For those of you who are wondering, that is a second chance.
Looking Up, Looking Forward
YTI became a reality in 2012. It stumbled and fumbled in its early years, but in 2019 it was given a second chance. Since that time, YTI has added new faculty, has more than tripled its student body, and has added new technology and new programs. YTI is doing more, with less, and remains relevant and successful. Our capital campaign continues to bring in new partners and contributions. In this newsletter, you will find our latest architectural renderings for our new facility. Additionally, YTI has entered into a joint venture project that will provide perpetual funding for an endowment.
Second chances are there for those who will simply look up.
Blessings!
Dr. Jay Smith, President
Bridger Professor of Theology & Ethics