Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean to be an LCF member?
A: It's easy! You are a member when you consider yourself one (we have no requirements, initiations, dues, or tests). You can be involved in LCF a lot or a little.
Q: Is LCF a church?
A: LCF is a campus fellowship. We hope our members will be part of local churches (in fact, we require all of our leaders to regularly attend a local church). We are a chapter of InterVarsity, a campus ministry that seeks to advance witnessing communities of students and faculty. Groups like InterVarsity are often called "parachurch," groups that come alongside the church in a mutually beneficial way.
Q: Is LCF affiliated with a denomination?
A: LCF has no denominational affiliation. We are a group of students from many denominations and church backgrounds, committed to living out Christ's call together, no matter our differences. LCF members represent most of the major denominations and are primarily traditional Evangelicals.
Q: Are Catholics welcome?
A: Yes! Christians of all denominations are welcome. There are several Catholics who are members of LCF, and some involved in leadership. There are also some Catholics who prefer to gather with only fellow Catholics. We're happy to connect you with one of the local parishes in Appleton. You can also find someone to with on our church connection page.
Q: Who is that guy who's always hanging around?
A: That's Adam Umbarger, our campus minister. Adam lives a few blocks away with his family and serves LCF as an InterVarsity staff worker (he is not an employee of the University, but he is an official Lawrence volunteer). Adam enjoys studying the Bible, Nordic skiing, biking, and snow. He also loves meeting and praying with students and faculty. You can text him at 517-two four three-2909 or set up a meeting with him through Calendly.
Q: What is Large Group?
A: Every Wednesday night we gather to worship in song, prayer, and Scripture readings. Typically there is also a weekly speaker, usually a pastor from a local church, faculty member, or student, but we also have Worship Nights and Bible Study Nights each term. We aim to incorporate different styles of worship music to reflect different traditions and backgrounds. Past topics have covered spiritual disciplines, doctrinal issues, evangelism, etc. We hope to make it a welcoming place, so come and find people, meet people, or just take it all in from the back row!
Q: If Lawrence is a university that values and promotes reason, then why is there a faith-based organization?
A: As Christians, we believe that we are called to be a light in the University, and to seek truth in our academic study. We are believing students committed to developing a Christian academic worldview. Although the University does not officially sanction religion, the University values academic excellence, integrity and discipline. We believe that Jesus provides the best foundation for these values.
Q: Does Lawrence sanction religion?
A: Lawrence is officially a secular school, however, there are many Christians in the faculty and administration. The University is generally very supportive of LCF and we work the the Lawrence Office of Spiritual and Religious Life.
Q: Can LCF help me find a church?
A: Yes. LCFers attend churches all over Appleton. If you're looking for a ride to church (or someone to walk with) on Sunday morning please check out the church connection page. There you will find ride information as well as recommendations for various kinds of churches and even directions and service times!
Q: Is LCF the only Christian organization on campus?
A: Currently, LCF is the only LUCC recognized student group that is explicitly Christian. You will find Christians in many other groups as well as churches that sponsor college age groups (sometimes with events on campus). In the past, there have been other similar groups like FCA, Campus Crusade, etc. Way back, Lawrence had YMCA, YWCA, the Oxford club, and others.
Q: Who is in charge?
A: Well, God ultimately. As a student organization, students lead with the help and mentorship provided by InterVarsity staff, faculty advisors, and Campus Life. LCF has all sorts of leadership opportunities with varying time commitments and responsibility. In fact, LCF is a great place to learn to be a leader.
Q: Are there any requirements for leaders?
A: Yes, there are four requirements: (1) leaders must apply to the leadership selection committee; (2) they must affirm a statement of faith; (3) they must agree with the goals and principles of LCF; and (4) they must regularly attend a local church. These requirements exist so that we know that all the leaders are committed to and agree on the same basic aspects of LCF and Christianity. Leadership selection takes place Spring Term, and more information will be available during Winter Term.
Q: Who can I talk to if I want to know more about Christianity or LCF?
A: Adam Umbarger, our campus minister with InterVarsity, or any of our student leaders would be great to talk with. You can find them on our leaders contact page.