Gannon University provides opportunities for students from all backgrounds to express their spirituality, and the university is adding to this by preparing for the first “Theology on Tap” event of the year.
This event, titled “HELL, NO! – A Look at Salvation, Redemption and Securing a Spot in the Kingdom of God,” will focus on heaven and hell and how to get there. The Rev. Jason Glover will be the speaker.
The event will take place on 8:15 p.m. Tuesday. Students who wish to attend will meet at the Waldron Campus Center information desk and walk over as a group.
Brent Heckman, resident associate campus minister and adviser to the program, said with this particular event, the plan is to provide a clearer understanding on current teachings on salvation and redemption.
Theology on Tap is a nationwide program model targeted at young adults. It brings faith into bars and pubs, and the events held are specifically for Gannon students.
Heckman said Theology on Tap is beneficial because it tackles touchy topics in a relaxed environment.
“It brings together a wide range of student opinions and fosters excellent conversations on matters of faith and life in a really fun environment,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to learn about your faith, ask challenging questions, eat some free food and enjoy a self-purchased drink with members of campus ministry.”
Heckman serves as the adviser for the events and works with a group of student leaders; Cassie Wasson, Jerry Pasnik and Kayla Bryson-Tucker, to come up with the topics, arrange the presenters and coordinate the events.
Wasson, a senior biology major, said that Theology on Tap allows students to explore questions in their faith more deeply through discussions and guest speakers, as well as expand spirituality with others.
“I’ve met students outside of my major who have expanded my spiritual knowledge and some who share similar struggles and questions that I have,” she said. “Many spiritual questions and topics I was afraid or unsure of how to discuss have been answered through Theology on Tap.”
Students interested in attending do not have to be 21, but those who are of age are asked to bring their ID if they wish to consume.
Heckman said Theology on Tap is spiritually beneficial for many reasons.
“It’s a great opportunity to gain greater depth in understanding on difficult theological issues,” he said. “The environment is very open to questions and dialogue on these issues.”
