One in the Spirit
by Teresa Busher
August 10, 2003

Students involved in InterVarsity Christian Fellowship at the University of San Diego in California seek to bring people of different faith backgrounds together before the cross of Jesus Christ. “InterVarsity has shared with the Catholic church our leadership development program, love of Scripture and evangelism; and we have been blessed by the Catholic church’s sense of community, call to social justice, and the peace that comes with walking with the living Jesus,” said Devanie Park, InterVarsity staff at the University of San Diego.

The InterVarsity community is not seeking to convert these students to a particular denomination, but to develop a spirit of renewed faith among the student community that inspires students to become devoted followers of Jesus. Bible studies, large group worship, and speakers give students opportunities to grow in their faith as they develop relationships with fellow college students. The students explore the different traditions within their churches, while acknowledging that Jesus’ death and resurrection is the core belief that all Christians share, regardless of their denominations.

This core belief about Jesus is what attracts Christians from different theological perspectives and denominations to InterVarsity. Students who are investigating the Gospel are encouraged to see Christians focusing on the truth of the message and mission of Christ instead of denominational differences.

InterVarsity’s student leaders at the University of San Diego have shown their classmates how to express the cultural relevance of the Gospel. Student leaders hope that efforts toward Catholic/Protestant reconciliation on campus will show students that even though people may have different cultural traditions and ideas of expressing their love for God, all Christians serve and are children of the same God.

Student leaders focus on helping students begin or strengthen their personal, daily relationships with Christ. The support of other believers challenges students to realize that every step in their journey of faith is important to their spiritual growth. Leaders within InterVarsity at the University of San Diego encourage students to develop a sense of community and friendship as they explore the different aspects of their faith in Jesus Christ.