Western Kentucky University Students Spread Gospel Through Sidewalk Chalk
In a display of faith and dedication, Christian students at Western Kentucky University (WKU) recently undertook a unique project aimed at sharing their beliefs with the wider campus community. During the week leading up to spring break, a group of approximately 70 students gathered on the university’s sidewalks to transcribe the entirety of the Gospel of John – a monumental task encompassing 879 verses – using chalk.
The initiative, primarily organized by the Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM), also saw participation from other Christian student organizations, including Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru) and Hilltoppers for Christ (HFC). The event took place on the night of March 10th and was completed in a few hours.
Cameron Shaw, president of the BCM and a senior at WKU, explained that the idea originated from a BCM alumnus who had witnessed similar chalk Gospel projects at other universities via social media. A TikTok account called Gospel Chalk Movement showcases similar events at various universities across North Carolina since late 2024, indicating a growing trend among Christian student groups to express their faith in this manner.
"We hope to continue a chain that other colleges can follow as well," Shaw stated, expressing the desire for the project to inspire similar initiatives at other institutions.
Before embarking on the ambitious undertaking, the students sought and obtained permission from the university administration. Shaw admitted to initial hesitation, fearing that the group’s actions might be perceived negatively by some. However, the students ultimately decided to proceed, believing that the project offered a distinctive and impactful way to present the Bible’s message to their peers.
Luke Alford, vice president of the BCM and also a senior at WKU, emphasized the primary motivation behind the project: "The main reason for us doing this ultimately is to spread the good news, or the Gospel." He further explained that in a world often characterized by uncertainty and confusion, particularly within the college environment, the Bible, especially the Gospel of John, provides valuable answers and guidance.
"We live in a time when there is a lot of uncertainty and confusion in the world around us, especially in a college setting full of a bunch of people still figuring out how to be an adult. I firmly believe that the Bible has the answer to these questions, especially in the Gospel of John," Alford said.
While the chalked Gospel garnered attention and sparked conversation, not all responses were positive. Rachel Harwood, another student leader within the BCM, noted that some students posted negative comments about the display on Yik Yak, a social media platform popular among college students.
Despite the negative feedback, Harwood remained undeterred, emphasizing that the primary objective was to expose students to the Bible’s message, regardless of their initial reactions. She believes even negative comments can be valuable, as they prompt students to consider their own beliefs and perspectives.
"Even though the responses were negative, students were still talking about the truths that are in the Bible. This is just as important as positive comments because it makes students think about where they stand when it comes to the most important decision in their lives," Harwood explained.
The students’ commitment to sharing their faith extended beyond the chalked Gospel. The day following the event, the BCM set up a table and chalkboard on campus to engage with students and faculty, inviting them to share their opinions and discuss the project.
Harwood described this as "a great way to verbally share the Gospel with students." The interactive approach allowed the BCM members to have meaningful conversations and address any questions or concerns that arose from the chalked Gospel display.
Shaw emphasized that the BCM aims to serve as a "community of grace" for the student population, with the ultimate goal of encouraging others to attend church and embrace faith in Christ. He noted a growing openness among college students in recent years to explore their faith.
"I know at BCM, we have seen an uptick in students almost every single year, especially freshmen, that are just deeply involved and interested in the Gospel and in what faith is and who Jesus is," Shaw said, suggesting a potential shift in the attitudes of young adults toward religion and spirituality.
The location of Western Kentucky University, situated in Bowling Green, is approximately a two-hour drive from Asbury University, where a widely publicized spiritual revival occurred in 2023. This proximity may contribute to a heightened awareness and interest in faith among students in the region.
"I personally definitely see an openness to Christianity," Shaw added. "Maybe some others might feel differently in a different part of the country. But I do see more of an openness to faith in general. How we would put it, some seeds [are] being planted."
The chalked Gospel project at WKU exemplifies the creative and proactive ways in which Christian students are seeking to share their beliefs and engage in dialogue with their peers. By transforming a public space into a canvas for religious expression, these students sparked conversations and encouraged reflection on matters of faith, even in the face of criticism. The event demonstrates a commitment to reaching out to a generation grappling with uncertainty and a desire to offer guidance and hope through the teachings of the Gospel. The project serves as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the willingness of young people to explore its meaning in their lives.
