14 religious groups displayed at FaithFest

Sunday at Dunn Meadow, new and returning students were given the opportunity to learn about the diverse number of religious organizations available on campus at the 12th annual FaithFest. Fourteen groups, mostly representing Christian organizations, had members standing by and tables set up with informational brochures, poster boards and free food for those looking to get involved. \nSarah Sutter, an IU graduate actively involved in Campus Crusade for Christ, said she came to FaithFest during her freshman year to check out the different organizations. \n"I think (FaithFest) is great for students who know they want to get involved," Sutter said. "It's good to see what's out there and helps students find people like them that want to know God." \nWhile all of the participating groups have a common interest in promoting religion and faith to students, FaithFest provides an opportunity for students to gain more specific information about each organization and ways they can be active in the groups.\nAs the organizations represent a diverse number of beliefs, they also range drastically in their number of members. While most groups have an average of about 40 to 60 members, smaller groups like the one representing the Baha'i faith have a following of about 30 people, as Campus Crusade for Christ has hundreds of participants attend events and meetings weekly. \nAshley Crane of the small Christian association the Navigators said she thinks all groups that showed up for FaithFest are important for different reasons. \n"There's definitely something for everyone here," Crane said. "The reason I chose to be involved in the Navigators is because it is smaller and more intimate with a focus on one-on-one relationships, which is great for me because I need that kind of connection." \nJenese Parker of the InterVarsity Christian Fellowship said she believes the integration of race and religion is important and FaithFest is a good opportunity for students to see that on campus. \n"We hold multi-ethnicity and social justice at a high value," she said. "We welcome all races and cultures, and our program is very inclusive." \nCoinciding with other Welcome Week activities, most of the attendees at the event were freshmen or new students looking to see what is available to them.\n"Some of my friends and I wanted to come here to learn about all of our options," said freshman Rachel Roper. "There are definitely a lot of small groups. Knowing about these groups gives you the option to try new things." \nMost of the groups at FaithFest hold weekly meetings, Bible studies and worship services. \n"There's a lot of opportunity to meet people and have unique experiences," Sutter said. "You can find real and meaningful community and make lifelong friends by being in an organization"