When Harvard was established, it was built under the slogan “Truth For Christ and For The Church”, and was named after a pastor, John Harvard. The school has had presidents that do not identify with the Christian faith, however, they have made a move that is shocking people of faith in the University.

Harvard’s organization of chaplains has named their new president: an atheist named Greg Epstein.

The Chief Chaplain is not only in charge of the Christian campus communities, but coordinates the activities of more than 40 university chaplains, who lead the Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist and other religious communities on campus. Many students are in support of the decision, stating the influence Epstein has had on their lives (and faith)

There is a rising group of people who no longer identify with any religious tradition but still experience a real need for conversation and support around what it means to be a good human and live an ethical life

Greg Epstein

For those who may be surprised that a group of leaders from all faiths chose Epstein to lead their team, the choice was unanimous by all faith leadership, stating that the decision was “obvious”

…in this environment [Harvard] it works. Greg is known for wanting to keep lines of communication open between different faiths.

Margit Hammerstom, Christian Science Chaplain

The move has been described as a push to have someone who is unattached to any of the religions take the lead to better connect everyone in an unbiased and fair way.

We’re presenting to the university a vision of how the world could work when diverse traditions focus on how to be good humans and neighbors.”

Rev. Kathleen Reed, Lutheran Chaplain

Epstein has also been supporting of the agnostic/atheist community on Harvard’s campus, offering them sermons and community without the aspect of God.

While I understand that this move will definitely make some waves and cause a lot of controversy, I think there are some beautiful lessons to be learned here.

Do I think Christians need to be better at being in community with those of different beliefs? Absolutely. One of our goals as believers is to love all as Christ loves us, and that shouldn’t be selective of what someone claims to believe, or if they have no beliefs at all.

Christ’s love is best spread through action, not words.

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.

John 15:12