Meet Doug, the iconic preacher of 13th Ave

Doug is an icon on University of Oregon’s campus because of his intent to spread the love of Jesus throughout us all. Most people might recognize this character from his eccentric bicycle decorations – and seemingly constant presence on 13th avenue.

Most sunny days, students might observe Doug sitting outside of the Lillis business complex or somewhere on 13th, riding his bike, fully decorated in “Jesus loves you” signs. Despite the university’s eclectic student body, Doug continually emerges as a memorable personality on campus.  We caught up with Doug to learn a bit about the man behind the handlebars.

What’s your name? Where are you from?

Oh, I’m Doug. I’m originally from central California, Modesto area.

What brought you to Oregon?

You know, I used to travel a lot from San Francisco to Seattle, and I would stop here along the way, over the years. Back and forth, back and forth. Aaaand, I thought well this is a pretty neat place here. Then, about eighteen years ago, I just stopped here and didn’t go back south.

Why’d you stay?

Well, many reasons. I like[d] Cal Berkeley, but it was unaffordable, so I’m here. I might go back to Cal or San Francisco if I win the lottery, you know. But until then, I’m gonna stay here.

What are you always doing on campus?

Well, I’m trying to get people to believe in the Bible. And, the ones who do believe, I want to encourage them to keep believing.

What is the primary message you are trying to communicate to the people?

Trust Jesus with all your heart. Love God and keep his commandments in heart. That’s the whole duty of mankind. That’s what God wants. And there’s a blessing in doing that.

What changes have you seen on campus since you’ve been here?

Well, it seems less liberal and a little more conservative than it used to be. In other ways, it seems more liberal, so it’s kind of a “hodge-podge” thing there.

What changes have you seen in the Bible and your religion during this time span?

I don’t see any changes. The meaning is still the same.

You wouldn’t say the media or other institutions have altered it in any way?

Well, there are all different types of religions out there. I lived in Salt Lake City for a while, and I saw what a capitalist religion could do. I would say a good percentage of all major religions are capitalistic at their centers. So I’m kind of more of a rebel. I’m a socialist. And I don’t fit in, in this culture.

Have you always been a devout follower of Jesus?

No. No, I was a party boy, a hippie! A crazy hippie! An anti-war hippie boy in California!

What happened to change this?

I became a Christian. I’m still somewhat of a hippie, but I’m just a bald hippie now.

Do you think religion is beneficial to everybody?

I think if you truly believe in the Bible, God’s holy word, you will have eternal life. I believe that there are many different interpretations to the words in the Bible. I would stay away from most organized religion. They’re capitalist at their cores. I mean, I lived in Salt Lake City off and on for 27 years – I saw it in action.

What did you see?

Well, one thing: there’s no end to their desires. A billion dollars isn’t enough. More! Gotta have more! Two billion! More! It’s kind of creepy you know? When does it end?

Then, what does it mean to be satisfied in this modern world?

To know Jesus as your personal Lord and savior. Knowing you’re going to have this security – that he is your all and all – He is your God, trust Him with everything.

What would you say Jesus thinks about the legalization of recreational cannabis in Oregon?

Ahh. Ha. Well, it was legal a long time ago. I think he’d say, well just, that you’re locking up a bunch of people because they want to smoke pot. I think, well that he would be disgusted with the mess caused over the topic. It’s been going on for over 70 years now, c’mon. I mean, I don’t smoke it. I don’t want to smoke it. Some people say it helps them. If it does, then go ahead. I smoked it everyday for three years. It didn’t help me. It didn’t help me become a genius like Ken Kesey. Ken Kesey didn’t become a genius because he smoked pot either. Ken Kesey was born a genius.

So why do you have your bike setup like it is?

I’m just trying to get the message out. Sometimes it rains out here, and when it does, I want it to be out here too! So I park it where the message can be seen.