GET REAL ABOUT HELL HOUSE

Transparency seems to be one of the buzz-words of the 21st century,
whether it's applied to a desire by local government to provide
taxpayers with barrier-free access to its decision-making process, or
vows from the police department to be as open and forthcoming as
possible about investigations.

And while the term isn't as commonly associated with religion, one
hopes that is the case with the revival of Hell House. To disguise or
shroud the intent of this church-based program could prove detrimental
to both the naivete of youth but also the credibility of those putting
it on.

Many in this community are familiar with Hell House, which made a
quiet exit five years ago after more than a few eyebrows were raised
about the manner and tone in which it was promoted. Those new to the
community or otherwise unfamiliar with the concept can read about it
in the pages of this journal today, in a story written by reporter
Caroline Boschman.

The goal of Hell House, says a church spokesman, is to "bring people
to a question about eternity and life-changing decisions and
circumstances they're faced with . . . " In other words, scare the
hell out of those attending so hopefully they won't succumb to such
evils as violence, booze and drugs. There's nothing wrong with
promoting those messages -- as long as those who walk through the door
know what they are in for.

That was the earlier complaint about Hell House, that vague promotions
led some to believe they were attending the sort of haunted house they
might find at the local fair, complete with "ghouls" in rubber masks,
"zombies" and badly reproduced groans, moans and screams aired over
hidden loudspeakers. Instead, some felt they were unfairly exposed to
messages -- at least in their intensity -- that were unexpected and
unwelcome.

It's not the first time a religious organization has been accused of
bait and switch. Last spring a group offered teens free displays of
strong men, trick BMX riders, skateboarders and eye-catching ethnic
dancers from faraway exotic lands. It also came, with little or no
advance warning, with a strong religious message and what some saw as
aggressive recruitment of unaware youth to join a particular faith.

Again, there's nothing wrong with messages to stay away from illicit
drugs and violence, to walk a straight line, show elders respect and
follow the ways of a higher being. If that is the overriding purpose
of such events, however, that needs to be made perfectly clear up front.

The organizers of Hell House say they aren't trying to trick anyone
into attending. Let's hope for all concerned that turns out to be the
gospel truth.