HBU is honored to receive 14 “Stations of the Cross” paintings donated by Kim ’83 MA ’87 and David ’84 MA ’06 Balkum. The 14 unique, mid-19th century Dutch paintings depict the Good Friday Passion of Jesus Christ. Leading up to Palm Sunday and Easter, HBU is pleased to host a special program from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, March 25, in Belin Chapel on HBU’s campus. Guests will explore the biblical and historical significance of the stations accompanied by special music. Attendees will then enjoy a guided walking tour or virtual tour of the paintings across campus.
The art collection will be placed across the Hinton Center, Atwood I, and the University Academic Center. The meaningful images are meant to inspire passersby with the saving message of Jesus Christ. For the Balkum family, HBU was a natural choice for the paintings’ destination. Kim and David’s children, Laurianne ’10 and Lesleigh ’13, and son-in-law, Josh Jones ’13, all attended the University and cherish their experiences growing in faith with HBU professors, mentors, and friends.
David said, “The University’s founding verse, John 14:6, focuses our faith on Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. At the heart of the ‘Stations of the Cross’ is the solemn and introspective reminder that there was a cost, paid by another, to open the way, the truth, and the life to us. Jesus’ promise and prophecy, played out in these 14 distinct acts, is that, upon being lifted up, men will be drawn to Him, just as we are through these paintings. As we consider that cost, our hope is that this gift will continue to focus our hearts, souls, and minds on our Savior and His sacrifice.”