A global interdenominational Christian organization dedicated to evangelism, discipleship, and the establishment of spiritual movements worldwide.
Campus Crusade for Christ, now known simply as Cru in the United States, represents a significant force in global Christian evangelism and discipleship. Founded in 1951 by Bill and Vonette Bright on the UCLA campus, its primary mission was to win, build, and send Christ-centered multiplying disciples to launch spiritual movements. This vision has expanded dramatically over the decades, making Cru a multifaceted ministry operating in various spheres, including campuses, cities, families, and among athletes and military personnel worldwide.
History and Development
The inception of Campus Crusade for Christ was marked by a divine call to Bill Bright during his studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, compelling him to dedicate his life to reaching the world, starting with college students. The name “Campus Crusade for Christ” was suggested by a professor friend, and the ministry began with a 24-hour prayer chain at UCLA. The early years saw significant growth in conversions among students, including notable figures such as Rafer Johnson, an Olympic gold medalist.
The 1950s and 60s were a period of rapid expansion for Cru, both domestically and internationally. It became known for its innovative approaches to evangelism and discipleship, notably through the creation of the “Four Spiritual Laws” in 1959 by Bill Bright and the salesman Bob Ringer. This concise evangelistic tool outlined the steps to Christian faith and was later compiled into a widely distributed booklet, helping solidify the organization’s approach to sharing the Gospel.
Key Ministries and Initiatives
Cru’s ministries are vast and varied, aimed at reaching different demographics:
- Campus Ministry: Targeting college students across the globe, providing spiritual guidance and fostering communities where students can explore their faith.
- City and FamilyLife Ministries: Focused on urban areas and family units, offering resources and programs to strengthen relationships and faith within communities and households.
- Josh McDowell Ministry: Dedicated to apologetics, defending the validity of the Christian faith, and authored by Josh McDowell, a prominent speaker and author within the Cru organization.
- Jesus Film Project: An initiative to distribute a film about the life of Jesus Christ, translated into numerous languages, to spread the Gospel worldwide.
Global Reach and Influence
Cru’s global presence is marked by its operation in numerous countries and its literature, including the “Four Spiritual Laws,” translated into over 200 languages. Events like EXPLO ’72, which drew 80,000 attendees and was dubbed the “Christian Woodstock,” showcase Cru’s impact on youth culture and its ability to mobilize large groups for evangelism and discipleship training.
Contemporary Focus
Today, Cru continues to evolve, addressing modern challenges and opportunities. It engages with a wide range of social issues, from sexuality and gender to racial diversity, striving to navigate these complex areas compassionately and scripturally. Its efforts to reach every corner of society with the message of Jesus Christ remain rooted in the belief in the transformative power of the Gospel.
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