Relient SpeaK Up?

Relient K recently went on what they called a missionary tour with Simple Plan and other secular “dark” bands. I thought that move was a little risky. True, artists — and all of us for that matter — need to spread the light to those who don’t know Christ, but I heard from a friend who went to their concert that there was no mention of Jesus at all during their show. I saw them not long ago at Rock the Universe in Florida, and I noticed that even when they were surrounded by thousands of Christians they didn’t mention their faith in Christ. I’m not condemning them, but I wonder why they don’t voice their beliefs when they have such an amazing chance. After all, Relient K is such an influential band that is able to reach all crowds.

—Hunt Prothro, Miami

Give Me NBA

Hey, guys, I’ve been reading Breakaway for many years, and I notice you interview a lot of professional athletes. I also notice that most of them are from the NFL or MLB, but there are few interviews or topics about professional basketball. Yet I know there are lots of NBA stars out there who profess to be Christians: Derek Fisher, Dwayne Wade, Vince Carter. Is there a reason why this sport is less covered? Is it because interviews with NBA players are hard to come by?

—Nathan Lau, South Pasadena, Calif.

Editor’s Note: In the past, we’ve received mail from readers saying, “Why so much NBA? There are other sports that you should cover!” But in this case, you make a good point, Nathan. The last NBA article we printed was on Derek Fisher [November 2004]. Stay on the lookout for an upcoming pro-basketball feature.

Joining the Fellowship

When I started high school this year, I was afraid I’d be criticized for my beliefs as a Christian. Yet during the second day of classes, I heard about a campus organization called Christian Fellowship. Some of the guys and girls in the group are people who I’d least expect to be there. Now I’m fully involved, and I’m looking forward to bringing the message of Christ into the classroom.

—Nathaniel Rand, Sackville, Nova Scotia

A Word From the “Frustrated Crowd”

Thanks for publishing the article, “Frustrated — Again!” [August 2005.] It’s encouraging to learn there’s hope and grace, even though we keep falling down in our faith walk. I feel as if I could have been the author of that story! I’ve been struggling with different issues for so long now, I’ve become pretty frustrated over not being able to triumph over them. But when I opened Breakaway and read the article, my outlook on life quickly improved. Now I know that even though I may stumble at times, I need to ask for forgiveness, get back up and continue moving forward.

—Reed Lape, Patoka, Ill.

It’s Time to Go Global

Each month in Breakaway, I read headlines about new tours you guys have partnered with: Revolution Tour, Livin It, etc. I think it’s awesome that you’re helping others know Christ through concerts and events. But there’s one small problem for me: I live in Canada. It would be great if you came to my country, as well as other nations. Think about it, OK?

—Caleb Gaeke, Winnipeg, Manitoba