Dr. Royce Money, president of the university, spoke in Chapel Monday and addressed, appropriately, the war with Iraq.

War issues have been mentioned repeatedly in Chapel prayers but never addressed, and Dr. Money’s speech was both well-timed and well-thought out.

The Optimist appreciated that Money, as a leader, said the students had a right to know his opinions.

“Like many of you, I was disappointed that U.N. negotiations broke down,” he said. “I support the coalition forces and freedom fighters, and I support our president and Congress.”

We also appreciated that he acknowledged the right of students to disagree with his opinion and encouraged students to discuss their opinions in the war forum that took place Monday evening.

First Amendment rights are perhaps most important during times of war, when human nature may prefer to suppress dissenting opinions.

As Christians, however, we have an obligation to remain united in Christ regardless of our stance on war.

The ability to remain united and epitomize the love of Christ in differences was demonstrated well in the war forum, where many different opinions-both of students and-faculty were voiced.

All sides were looking to find the truth in love, whether pacifist or activist. The Optimist maintains its position that in trying to find the truth, the main goal of protesters and supporters alike should remain focused on bringing our troops home as quickly and safely as possible.

We also ask students to continue considering moral responsibilities during the continuation of war and imploring prayer for our troops and for our enemies, and that God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven. We shall pray.