NGU votes and prays for Chris Sligh

TIGERVILLE, SC – Six years ago, America didn’t know the talent of Chris Sligh, but his vocal professor at North Greenville University, Dr. Cheryl Greene did. Before he was singing hits of the 1960’s for a live studio audience and millions of viewers, he was honing his classical abilities in Hamlin Recital Hall on the Tigerville campus.
    In 2001, ‘American Idol’ had just started its reign as a cultural phenomenon and Sligh was a voice student at NGU. Even before viewers across the country were voting him into the show’s top ten, Greene knew Sligh was special.
    “Chris was a joy to work with as a person,” said Greene. “His unique voice quality and extreme vocal range made teaching him a delight. He is an extremely talented musician, able to compose and arrange music as well as sing in various vocal styles.”
    Four years after he left NGU, Sligh may be the most popular person on campus. Every Tuesday night a student group called “The House” gathers in the student center to cheer on Sligh and fellowship as a student community.
    “The House” is a faith-based group who gather for prayer, Bible study and a little fun watching the ‘fro-headed North Greenville alum impress the judges and wow the audience. During the commercial breaks, students perform on the stage for the crowd and three judges.
    Those who knew Sligh as a student at the South Carolina Baptist university believe he is genuine about his Christian faith. “He demonstrated a strong Christian testimony while attending NGU,” said Greene. “I have never doubted Chris’ desire to adhere to Biblical teaching and be a testimony to those around him of what God has done in his life as a Christian.”
    “In knowing Chris when he was a student at North Greenville University, there is no doubt in my mind that he loves Jesus Christ with all his heart, soul, strength and mind,” said NGU President Dr. Jimmy Epting. “Whether he wins or not, Chris can certainly use this platform to make a tremendous difference for Jesus.”
    The road to fame is often filled with trials and temptations, so not only are his NGU supporters voting for him, they are also hoping he can keep his faith strong, too. “Is he going to stand by his true Christian morals? I don’t know the answer to that question,” said Greene. “Christianity is a lifestyle. We are commanded in scripture to be ‘in the world, but not of it.’ Christians will be tested in various avenues of their lives.”
    Despites the obstacles, Greene believes Sligh can make it through as a genuine Christian. “My prayer is that Chris Sligh will remain spiritually strong while participating in a venue that tends to be motivated by self promotion, greed and notoriety. The Chris Sligh I knew as a student should be able to do this by the grace of God.”
    Greene said she would continue to watch the show and support Sligh. For those on the campus whose motto is being the place “where Christ makes the difference,” that means a lot more than simply picking up a phone and voting for him each week.