Need a new CRU?

The name "Campus Crusaders for Christ (CRU)" may not evoke visions of entertainment for all. In fact, some may be surprised that friends, fun games, laughs, food and wholesome Christian messages are all major components of CRU. If these components sound like a good time, CRU may be for you.

Students, have no fear. Religious organizations can be intimidating for many but CRU provides a relaxed atmosphere in which all are welcome; religious and non-religious alike. CRU is different than what one commonly expects of a religious group. They put on events which are open for all to enjoy. An upcoming event sponsored by CRU is the magician, "Maze". The performance is Feb. 7 in Cartwright, and is free for UW-La Crosse students.

CRU offers a variety of planned activities but the camaraderie and friendships formed is unspoken for. "Sometimes I like it because we can share our feelings with a group of close friends on school, relationships, and family matters…basically anything you want," said CRU member and co-leader of Laux bible study, Mike Ebert.

Students interested in CRU are sincerely welcome to attend events and advised to speak to current members for more information. New members should expect walking into the meeting and being warmly greeted by a group of friends. Leaders won't be found in an office in a back hallway somewhere. Rather, they will be mingling with the other members joking, talking about problems, or just enjoying themselves amongst their friends.

A typical meeting starts with members sitting in circle and sitting down. The first order of business of this meeting is housekeeping details for the group including member input on the activities for the semester. Next on the agenda is to play games, and the majority of this meeting is spent having fun.

After the games are finished, discussion turns to members' lives. Members who want to share their beefs, burdens, and blessings are welcome to do so in an open environment. They can vent the good and bad of their lives to a group that is supportive and helpful. The meeting is finished with a prayer and blessing.

CRU has a variety of other events planned for the spring semester. Weekly events include Bible studies in each residence hall. These are the smallest events that mix fun with a good religious message.

The organization also organizes trips in the fall, winter and spring. The spring trip this semester will be to Panama City Beach, Fla. Hundreds of CRU members from all over the country will gather to extend their friendliness and open their arms to individuals in need. Other activities throughout the semester are ultimate Frisbee games, dinners, men's and women's overnights and "Man vs. Wild" weekend.

CRU weekly meetings take place in Graff Main Hall Room 260 at 9:00 p.m. every Thursday and usually involve a guest speaker and fun games and activities.  Anyone interested is encouraged to contact a CRU member or attend the weekly meeting or Bible studies.