From a Christian lens, we whole-heartedly assert that Christ is to be represented in all things we do. That is why we are often reminded of 1 John 1:8, which says, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” Constantly striving to recall our own sinful nature, we hope to be made accountable for our actions. In that respect, we acknowledge an imperfect world. But we also remember a Savior in the midst of it all.

We are entirely aware of our responsibilities as faith-based journalists, and our role will never be taken lightly. Our promise is to only ever publish material acknowledging news as it stands – newsworthy, reliable and non-biased. The Huntingtonian simply serves as a platform to communicate what is already in place.  To do otherwise would be defamatory, and the student newspaper will never stoop so low.

To keep our promise, we must recall the importance of the First Amendment and the dangers of media censorship.

When censored, news is consumed by bias. To selectively present the news would be to reject reality and substitute it for an illusion. If the press fails to inform on all matters with accuracy, the reader is misled and oftentimes influenced by the selective information presented. Consider if the editors of 2 Samuel chose to censor the affair between King David and Bathsheba, or if the editors of Genesis chose to exclude chapter 19 where Lot had sex with his two daughters. If the Bible was censored, a critically important part of how we understand the world would be horribly misconstrued.

The truth is not always pretty. But it’s painfully necessary. As much as the “good news” is preached, take a look at how often Jesus (aka “The Truth”) points out the wrong and injustices of the world unapologetically. Are we not called to be like Christ?

Likewise, The Huntingtonian is here to present our readers with uncensored news. News that explores all sides — the good, the bad, the ugly.

Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” So read, test and discern the news we present. And thank our forefathers for the First Amendment. Through it, we can articulate fair and well-rounded opinions.