Both AFTERdark, a Christian music and speaker event, and Girl’s Night Out, a “girl talk” event with a Christian speaker, were both advertised without notifying audiences that they were Christian events.

Students who attended AFTERdark showed up expecting to see a live band. Well, they got it – along with a sermon and a giant cross to complete the theme.

The programs were held with good intentions, but the advertising was misleading. Both events meant to emphasize the importance of truth and the love Jesus has for his followers, but they contradict themselves by withholding the truth about their subject matter.

Religion is a personal and, for some, a private affair that should be approached with honesty. Furthermore, by keeping the intent of the events hidden, these programs lure people who might not be comfortable discussing Christianity in a public forum, or who may not be Christian at all.

TCU may be affiliated with the Disciples of Christ, but that doesn’t mean all students are Christian. Several faiths are represented on campus.

Advertisers for the events should have marketed them as Christian events even if it might have affected the attendance. At least then they would have a captivated audience – not one surprised by a cross and outreach.

News editor Maricruz Salinas for the editorial board.