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Acts of Faith: CSU theater majors create Bible study group

Students in the CSU theatre department create new place of worship

Russell Bugg and Case Kellum, students in the CSU Theater Department, realized last year that many theater students were unable to attend meetings for the Christian organizations on campus due to busy schedules and rehearsals that end late, so they created their own Bible study group that meets at 10:00 p.m. every Wednesday in studio a of One Arsenal.

Bugg and Kellum also wanted to create an accessible place of worship for people who “want to grow and continue to develop their walk with God during their college experience,” and for students to know that they do not have to party or act against their morals and religious beliefs in order to fit in or be accepted by the people around them. “Especially as theater majors, there [is] this immense pressure to fit in with the people who appear to be successful,” said Bugg.

Aside from the unconventional time that the group meets, the theater Bible study differs from other religious organizations on campus in the fact that there is not one set leader for meetings. Even though Bugg and Kellum created the club, other students speak during the meetings to bring up their own ideas or suggest topics. Oftentimes members “read chunks of text, take turns reading aloud and then discuss what it means to us and how it relates to [their] lives and walks.” In this way everyone in the organization is a leader. Group time is a personal experience for each person and as they hear different interpretations of passages and lessons, the process deepens relationships--not only between students, but between each student and God.

The group holds importance not only because it is flexible and accessible to all students, but because those who attend are able to interact with and learn from others with the same devotion to God. Sophomore Amy Lynn Barker said the group is important to her because “before [she] came to college, [she] was really nervous about finding a church or group of friends who really loved Jesus and inspired [her] to grow closer to him.” The theater Bible study gives Barker a place to surround herself with people who encourage her to grow as a person and in her faith.

Freshman Jaime Hall said “finding an anchor to keep me focused on God and to keep my head level is essential. The group is a safe place with a bunch of amazing theater kids who’s fire for God is real!” All ideas and questions are encouraged and students do not have to worry about being perfect or understanding everything they hear.

Without the theater Bible study, many students would be left without a place to worship or strengthen their relationship with God. The flexible schedule and easygoing, inclusive nature of the group creates a loving and safe environment for all students who attend.


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