As students transition to college, they often seek community and belonging.
For many at Murray State, this connection is found within the various religious organizations on campus. These groups offer supportive environments where individuals can explore their faith, build relationships and engage in meaningful activities.
Jonathan Clark, campus minister for the Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM), said he has seen many students foster lifetime friendships and expand their beliefs throughout their time at the BCM.
“Great growth in the faith takes place in college as they ‘own’ their faith and start taking steps on their own initiative to pursue Jesus,” Clark said.
This article highlights some of the various religious organizations at Murray State, showcasing their missions, meeting times and the unique opportunities they provide for students seeking spiritual growth and connection.
Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM)
“The BCM exists on Murray State’s campus to reach the campus and beyond with the Gospel of Christ, to connect students to the local church and strengthen the believers’ walk with the Lord.” -Website mission statement
The Baptist Campus Ministry (BCM) has been a cornerstone of Murray State’s campus life for decades. Located behind Elizabeth Residential College, the BCM provides numerous opportunities for students to connect. Their primary event, “Engage,” is a weekly worship service held on Thursdays at 7 p.m. For upperclassmen, the BCM offers Community Groups, which meet once a week to foster relationships and accountability among faith-driven students. Freshmen can also join Freshman Family Groups, led by upperclassmen, offering Bible-based guidance and support to help ease the transition into college life.
Racer Campus Ministry (RCM)
The Racer Campus Ministry (RCM) was established at Murray State in 1967 and is working to create a network of Christians dedicated to sharing Jesus’s love. On Monday nights at 7 p.m., they gather at the RCM House, located behind Tap 216, for a time of student-led teachings, worship and prayer. Wednesday nights at 6 p.m., they share a meal followed by Reach, a time used to focus on their impact on campus and throughout the community.
Murray Christian Fellowship (MCF)
Murray Christian Fellowship (MCF) was founded in 1968 with the mission of engaging students, providing a home away from home, encouraging a life following Jesus and fostering a servant’s heart. The MCF house is located across from the Murray State police station. They hold worship and teaching nights on Sundays and Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m, each focusing on different topics. Additionally, MCF offers a lunchtime study every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., with lunch provided.
212 Murray State
212 Murray State’s ministry dates back to the 1970s, and although it operated under a different name, its mission of serving students has remained constant. The 212 House is located across from the intramural field and tennis courts. Their main gathering is a weekly worship and Bible study held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Curris Center Theatre. In addition, they host various events at the 212 House.
The Newman Catholic Center
The Newman Catholic Center partners with St. Leo Catholic Church, located just across the street. Their team includes a chaplain, campus minister and the FOCUS leadership group. Throughout the week, they offer multiple opportunities for Mass, Adoration and Confession, along with several Bible study groups.
MSU Wesley Foundation
The MSU Wesley Foundation, rooted in the Methodist tradition, has served Murray State students for over 75 years. The ministry building is located across from Regents and White residential halls. Every Tuesday night, they meet for a free meal at 6 p.m. with worship to follow at 7 p.m.
CRU at Murray State University
Cru is a global Christian ministry, with Murray State being one of its 8,919 campus branches. Their mission is to support students on their spiritual journey by connecting them with mentors, Bible studies, fellowship opportunities and more. This semester, they meet every Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. in Alexander Hall 240 for Bible study and fellowship. The theme for this semester is “One Block at a Time,” as they work through a study of Ephesians.
Delight at Murray State
Delight is a nationwide ministry that offers Christian women a space to belong, grow in their faith and be known. This semester, they will be studying the book “Heartbeat,” which focuses on learning to love God through spiritual discipline. They meet every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. in Alexander Hall.
Episcopal Campus Ministry (ECM)
The Episcopal Campus Ministry (ECM), a part of the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky, is openly and actively affirming of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Sydney Littrell, the ECM’s vice president and vestry representative, said, “We believe that God created LGBT+ people intentionally as part of His beautiful and wonderful creation. Being gay, trans, etc. is not a sin, but should be celebrated as an aspect of the beautiful diversity God has created.”
St. John’s Episcopal Church sponsors the ministry. They host several weekly events that can be found on their website, social media and on flyers across campus.
Q-Faith
Q-Faith is an interdenominational LGBTQIA+ campus ministry dedicated to creating an open and affirming community of faith. Their mission is to remind individuals that they are loved, welcomed, and celebrated. The group meets at the Pride Center at 5 p.m. on the first three Wednesdays of each month.
In a world where community and connection are more important than ever, the religious organizations at Murray State offer students a welcoming space to grow in their faith and form lasting relationships.
“I really appreciate the community aspect, especially as an out-of-state student who doesn’t see her family very often,” Littrell said. “I feel safe there to ask theological questions that I wouldn’t be comfortable opening up to just anyone about, and I know these friends will be by my side every step of the way.”
