By By: Alyssa Foster
Co-Editor
IU South Bend’s Ratio Christi group is welcoming new members during their weekly meetings for those interested in furthering their learning and connection with Christ.
“Ratio Christi is a global movement that equips university students and faculty to give historical, philosophical and scientific reasons for following Jesus Christ,” states ratiochristi.org.
The organization is found on a wide variety of campuses around the world.
“We’re an international organization. There are chapters on about 130 campuses around the United states, and then there’s a few countries around the world as well,” Donald McLaughlin, chapter director of IU South Bend’s Ratio Christi, said.
Groups are also found in South Africa, the Philippians and Canada, as well as other countries where interest is shown.
The group meets Thursday nights near campus at faculty advisor Kasey Clear’s house at 6 p.m., though students can join later if the beginning of the meeting conflicts with their schedule. The weekly meetings typically last around two hours, and refreshments are always provided.
The IU South Bend Chapter of Ratio Christi is currently in their 11th year as a ministry group. Though they currently meet at Clear’s house, they have previously met on campus as well as through Zoom during the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Due to the struggle of online and in-person changes, as well as due to former members graduating, the group is currently going through a rebuilding stage as they work to bring more attendees into their weekly meetings.
Every student is welcome at Ratio Christi, including those who have a strong religious background as well as those who are nonbelievers. According to McLaughlin, the only requirements to attend are an attitude of inquiry, the willingness to learn and an understanding mind in order to discuss with those you may not agree with.
“We want to present the truth of scripture and the gospel. That’s literally what Ratio Christi means – the reason of Christ,” McLaughlin said.
According to McLaughlin, Ratio Christi hopes to come together with other groups on campus to host events for IU South Bend students to enjoy. Their goal is to spread the word of their group and its benefits to anybody who is interested.
“Every week’s a fresh week – a fresh discussion. You don’t have to have been a part of the discussions from the weeks before to be a part of it,” McLaughlin said. “Come once and see what it’s all about, and if you decide it’s not for you, that’s fine. But at least come and see and check it out. You might actually enjoy it.”
Students interested in attending can contact McLaughlin at donaldmclaughlin@ratiochristi.org for the address and more information.
Photo // ratiochristi.org
