Goal
The goal of this Edge Night is to discuss the ways that rumors, gossip, and slander can hurt not only the dignity of the people around us but ourselves as well; the Christian response to gossip will also be discussed.
Edge Night at a Glance
This Edge Night is an Issue Night on gossip. The dictionary defines gossip as casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true. Gossip is something that most middle school youth struggle with. It is easy for a young person to feel insecure and spread rumors to elevate him/herself over another person. It is also a great temptation to participate in the gossip in one’s social network.Nowadays, Facebook, texting, and other social media makes it easier and easier to spread gossip. However, to be Christian means that we need to refrain from any word or deed that causes unjust injury. Refraining from gossip is the duty of every Christian. There is sometimes a difficulty in defining gossip as well.
The Edge Night starts with a presentation on the effects of gossip. It will look at how gossip affects our relationships with others and our relationship with Christ. There will then be a talk and witness that explains the hurtfulness of gossip and the different forms that gossip takes. Finally, the youth will be challenged to counter gossip with prayers for others and affirming words in the form of letters written to our neighbors.