By Jay Wilkerson
Staff Writer
From the early days of the college, the Baptist Student Ministry (BSM) organization has offered students a lunchtime break from their studies. A few years ago, in an effort to be closer to students, the group moved the weekly Christian fellowship from the BSM building, located behind the soccer fields, to SUB 101 on the main campus.
But, with the hour-long lunch schedule implemented this fall, and the decision a year ago that organizations could no longer serve full meals to students on the main campus, BSM has moved their lunchtime fellowship back to their former spot. The ministry is open each Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. except the week of Thanksgiving.
BSM Director Kassidy Harris said they are glad to be back in their recently renovated building and offering students a small break from their daily routine.
“We are very excited be moving back to the building because now we can create an environment where people can come and really just get away from the college even if it is just for a little while,” he said.
The BSM and other groups were required to stop serving full meals in the Student Union Building because of the food service contract between Great Western Dining and the college. They could only serve snacks, fruit and drinks during the lunch period. With the move back to the BSM building off the main campus, the group can once again offer students a free home cooked meal furnished by a different area church each week.
Northeast Student Nathan Johnson, an intern with BSM, said the group was there for him when he was at a low point in his life and that they have helped him get back to where he wanted to be.
The organization welcomes anyone who is looking for a place to enjoy a time of Christian fellowship and encourage students to come and spend time with the BSM crew each Wednesday.
Along with students, several faculty members also take time to participate in the activities offered by BSM.
Marguerite Morris, math professor and director of Developmental Education, said she was a faithful member of BSM when she was in college and enjoys going over and spending time with the students during the activity period. Morris even helped the group get their building ready to move back into by cleaning and organizing the kitchen area.
Harris said they would like to invite everyone to come over to the BSM each Wednesday.
Adding that the group’s main purpose is to build relationships with “every single person who walks through their doors and to serve them in the process.”