Bengals look to share life of Christ with students

by Eric Pfahler
For The Post

Two Cincinnati Bengals will tell Ohio University how they have managed to keep Christ the most important part of their lives tonight, despite working in a world of loose morals and easy entertainment.

Bengals linebacker Billy Granville and retired offensive lineman Ken Moyer are scheduled to speak at 9 tonight in 201 Morton Hall. The two will attempt to answer the question "Does faith matter on the field?"

The speech is being presented as a part of Faith Week, sponsored by Campus Crusade for Christ and Athletes in Action.

"(Faith Week) is an entirely student-led series of events designed to stimulate discussion and interaction of faith, particularly the person of faith," said Brian McCollister, Campus Crusade director.

The speech should cover the question of whether or not it is possible to play an incredibly brutal game and carry on a faith-filled life, McCollister said.

"I think people are really curious about whether faith really matters in a completely image-driven, money-driven profession that is also very much in the public spotlight," he said.

The players will allow students to take a peek at the trials of living a Christian life while playing in a league that seems to be eager to grab a quick dollar and have a good time.

Moyer, who graduated from the University of Toledo, said he feels sport mimics off-the-field actions.

"I think that sports are mirrors of life," Moyer said. "And to be the best, we need to be complete with the physical aspect, the mental aspect and the spiritual aspect."

He said though it might be difficult to resist temptation in the limelight of the NFL, it is possible with the help of prayer and inner-strength.

"In the professional realm it is very difficult (to lead a Christian life) because there are a lot of temptations," Moyer said. "If you don't have that foundation rooted, then it is almost impossible to go through unscathed."

Ohio football and basketball player Thomas Stephens said he is looking forward to listening to athletes who have gone through a morally difficult path, yet maintained a strong presence of Christ in their lives.

"I know some of the things I'm going through are similar to those that they went through," Stephens said. "This is going to plant a seed of Christ into the college students."

All are welcome to attend this event. Faith Week concludes at 5 p.m. Friday with a party on South Green.