By: Kimberly Alonzo
In the heart of Bellarmine University, under the warm glow of Hilary's, a diverse tapestry of faith, friendship, and exploration unfolds every Tuesday at 8:15 p.m. It's the weekly meeting of Bellarmine Christian Fellowship (BCF), a student-led organization that has become a haven for nearly 150 members who are in a community where Christianity is not merely discussed but lived.
At the helm of BCF are juniors Johnny Pohlman and Stephen Wearsch, alongside adviser Dr. Shawn Apostel, a communication professor who envisions BCF as a place where students-Christian or those exploring Christianity- freely share their journeys. "I hope BCF is a place where all students... encourage one another as we grow in our knowledge of God and our faith in Jesus,” Apostel said.
Each Tuesday night, Hilary's transforms into a gathering space for seekers, a blend of Christians eager to deepen their faith and non-Christians curious about Christianity. The atmosphere is one of inclusion, with BCF fostering an environment where individuals can explore spirituality without judgment.
The heartbeat of BCF extends beyond Tuesday nights, though. Students have the option to join co-ed Bible studies on Wednesdays from 7:45 to 8:30 p.m. or Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. in the commuter lounge. These smaller groups offer intimate settings for fellowship and in-depth exploration of the Bible's teachings.
Beyond structured meetings and series, BCF finds its heartbeat in transformative experiences like the New Year's conference. Spending four days and four nights together in Indianapolis during the conference was a memorable experience for everyone involved. “You really get to know everybody you're there with, and it really helps you become a part of the shift,” Wearsch said. “For me, when I went last year, my sophomore year, I was pretty new to BCF. I didn't know a lot of people, but I came in, went to the conference, and just had a great time. I feel like I was a part of the BCF community."
These events, especially the New Year’s conference, are viewed as more than just passing occasions. Instead, they serve as engines of development. "We do New Year's conference, and then we have spring break coming up. Those events are great in themselves, but what they really do is foster community here on campus. By attending sessions, seminars, and worship at the conference we are carrying the momentum from New Year's conference back to campus," Wearsch said.
Pohlman said BCF has had a transformative impact on his life. "I was in a very rough place in my life and did not have community at all except outside of school. BCF showed me that it's possible to have Christian community at college. The amazing community and leaders gave me new friends and relationships," he said.
BCF is one of two Christian organizations on campus, with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes catering specifically to athletes. However, BCF is open to all students as a space where exploration is encouraged and differing viewpoints are not only welcomed but celebrated.
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