The Unlikely Disciple

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As a sophomore at Brown University, Kevin Roose, raised in a secular home by liberal parents, had little exposure to the Religious Right. His life changed when he encountered students from Liberty University, a conservative Baptist institution in Virginia. Instead of dismissing them, Roose boldly decided to immerse himself in their world. Liberty University, founded by the late Rev. Jerry Falwell, is a 10,000-student conservative Christian training ground where students, known as "Champions for Christ," engage in classes like Introduction to Youth Ministry and Evangelism 101. They pray before classes and adhere to a strict code of conduct prohibiting drinking, smoking, and R-rated movies. With an open mind and a reporter's notebook, Roose explores life at this "Bible Boot Camp" to connect with his evangelical peers. His semester includes attending church and choir practice at Rev. Falwell's Thomas Road Baptist Church, visiting a support group for recovering masturbation addicts, and participating in a spring break mission trip to convert bar-hopping co-eds. Throughout his journey, Roose grapples with his own faith and conducts the last in-depth interview of Rev. Falwell's life. This hilarious and heartwarming account offers a respectful, thought-provoking perspective on the culture war, inspiring both believers and non-believers.