Related to this issue, Messiah University President Kim Phipps sent a statement to university employees and alumni that read in part, "There has been much attention given to Messiah's Community Covenant's stance on homosexual behavior in recent media accounts – some of it more accurate and contextual than others. However, an equally important part of our Community Covenant emphatically states the importance of each person, that individuals are to be valued and respected because all human beings are created in God’s image. In its May 10 editorial, The Patriot-News called Messiah's goal on this issue 'admirable,' and notes that the institution is 'trying to be a bridge between two parts of society who rarely even talk to one another, let alone have a meaningful conversation.' My hope and prayer for the Messiah College community is that we will reflect the love of Christ to one another and to our neighbors even in the midst of difficult conversations and challenges."