Despite dreary weather, nearly 200 supporters gathered in front of the Science Center Friday afternoon to rally behind M. Kyle Sims '02 in the featured event of "Jesus Week."

Sims, perched atop a rock amidst pouring rain and many an umbrella, declared, "I am Kyle." He posed and answered two questions to his audience: "Why do I need a god?" and "If there is a god, why is there so much pain and suffering in the world?"

Sims spoke about the role of Christianity in his life, hoping to increase awareness on campus and spread the gospel. He preached to onlookers, "God fulfills my every need."

The speaker described the story of his father, who came from an abusive household as a child.

"My dad followed God," he said. "He led him to a university in Texas, where he met his wife...and God is there for you in the midst of your suffering."

The speech lasted for 15 minutes, ending in a solemn prayer and a singing of "Amazing Grace."

A large portion of the audience sported bright orange shirts reading "I agree with Kyle" that had been distributed earlier that morning.

Students from various Christian organizations, members of the community and friends of Kyle came to the brief presentation.