After months of debate and speculation, May 21, 2011 is finally upon us.
For some it’s a source of amusement, for others it’s a day of reckoning.
“At this point we’re trying to get out the message,” said Brian Haubert of Havertown.
“Some people are talking with their families, some are handing out info, I personally spent most of today praying.”
Brian is so convinced that the world will end on Saturday that he hasn’t made any plans past that day. He claims that to make any plans would mean that he didn’t really believe the world would end.
Some believers, including Guy Berry of Havertown, have even quit their jobs.
“If you really believe that the world’s going to end, then what do you need the money for anyway?"
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For months, California Christian group, Family Radio Network has spread an apocalyptic message on billboards and R-Vs across the country.
Minister Harold Camping of Family Radio believes that the world will end on Saturday at 6 p.m.
“It will begin with a huge earthquake,” said Camping.
Camping made a similar prediction back in 1994 though both he and countless followers are convinced that he got it right this time around.
Yet in spite of the numerous believers nationwide, a large number of Christians don’t believe in Family Radio’s message.
“Honestly? I think that God is laughing at everyone that thinks they know,” said Julia Saunders of Woodland.
“Man’s not going to know when it occurs,” said Curtis Venable of Lansdale.
Christians aren’t the only ones reacting strongly. Many atheists have planned post-rapture parties across the nation.
Yet in spite of the widespread skepticism from believers and non-believers alike, religious leaders view the apocalyptic hype as a tremendous opportunity.
“Whenever there’s a discussion of our mortality or our end, whether it’s because the Lord is coming back or we’re going to die, most of us take that seriously,” said Reverend/Dr. Alyn E. Waller of the Enon Tabernacle Church.
While many are skeptical, they still would rather be safe than sorry. Many pastors and priests expect a huge turnout in Church on Saturday evening.
Jericha Brooks has different plans however.
“Well I don’t believe its going to happen,” said Jericha.
“But I will be blasting Britney Spears and dancing just in case.”
What a way to go out.
