Marion Kimble
Most students don’t know much about Pierce Christians United, formerly known as The Christian Club. Some students just aren’t interested.
“I don’t believe in institutionalized religion” said Teresa Romo, a student who has decided against joining the ranks of any religious clubs.
Many students share a similar view and the PCU noticed a need for change.
As of this semester the club is now know as Pierce Christians United (PCU) and the club is going to work on improving itself from the inside out.
“(The PCU) would like to focus on the helping the members first,” said Steven Harris, co-pastor and vice-president.
Harris would like the club to “Be the church” for the students, giving them a place to “study the word.”
Club members would like to do clean-up projects across the campus, as well as help the handicapped.
“When walking home I try to walk in a straight line and pick up all of the trash in my way.” said Harris. “I would do more, but then I would never get home.”
The PCU’s main focus is assisting students through Christianity.
“We would like to be stewards for the kingdom of God and serve Pierce through fellowship,” said Harris. Claudia Gomez, president of the PCU, shares similar views.
“We pray for members and attempt to strengthen the campus,” said Gomez. “We give members a place where they can take a break from class and have the freedom to praise God.”Richard Skidmore, advisor for the PCU, was unavailable for comment.
The club also plans to work with Hillel, also know as the Jewish Club.
“We just started talking, but there was a strong connection and there is lots of hope,” said Harris.
The PCU meets four times a week, Monday to Thursday from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. The club gathers in various places near the Business Building, usually on the grass in front of Room 3200.
Even with leaders so passionate about Christianity, and four meetings a week in such a conspicuous place, the club has yet to reach a majority of the students. Currently, the club has six members, with five holding a leadership position.
“(The PCU) plans to take time once a week to minister evangelism,” said Harris “We would like to know what the needs of students are and what they think of Christ.”
For now, students don’t think the club impacts them much. A random selection of students was asked if they knew the school had a Christian Club and what they thought of such a club. The majority of the students didn’t know the club existed and many we not interested. Two students commented with things like “Go Christ Go!” and “Jesus loves you!”One student, possibly jokingly, possibly out of genuine concern, asked if the club to “please move to where there aren’t a lot of ants…”
There were also students who thought the idea could benefit the campus. “It is a good idea” muses Danielle Hoeff, a student finishing her day “I’m not active in the club, but I think it’s a good idea to have a place on campus where we can discuss matters that will influence our futures.”
Hoeff isn’t the only one. Lara Kalaidjian, ASO vice-president, has positive thoughts about the PCU.
“They are really nice people,” said Kalaidjian, “the club reminds me of Catholic School. They gave me a free bible last year. I don’t use it, but I really liked the gesture.”