Well, Hey, if the President Likes Bethany...

May 21, 2005
I (Calvin) thought it was a little amusing that President Bush was speaking at Calvin College. Then I almost fell over when he mentioned Bethany Christian Services, the agency we are adopting through. But I love the context in which he speaks of Bethany - of going out into your world and making a difference by loving and serving people.
Kid, that's part of the heritage I want to pass on to you when I get to be your dad. Our heavenly Father has called us not to be spectators of His kingdom, but citizens.

Below is an excerpt from President Bush's speech at Calvin College's commencement:

"As your generation takes its place in the world, all of you must make this decision: Will you be a spectator, or a citizen? To make a difference in this world, you must be involved. By serving a higher calling here or abroad, you'll make your lives richer and build a more hopeful future for our world.

At Calvin College, you take this call to service to heart. You serve as "agents of renewal" across the Earth. You volunteer for Big Brothers/Big Sisters to mentor young people. You work at Bethany Christian Services here in Grand Rapids, one of the best- known adoption services in America. A former Calvin student and professor, Vern Ehlers, serves in the halls of Congress. As the Class of 2005 goes out into the world, I ask you to embrace this tradition of service and help set an example for all Americans. As Americans we share an agenda that calls us to action -- a great responsibility to serve and love others, a responsibility that goes back to the greatest commandment. "
http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=47772