Christian ministry on the public university campus serves the needs of both students and the local church. For the local church, it creates disciples; for students, it provides a safe space where young adults can examine life decision in the midst of their faith. Students, however, are looking for more. Young adults want to not only understand those around them, they want to connect and use those experiences to contribute as global citizens. Young adults understand we, as humans, are not independent; are not isolated; are not unengaged in our world. They see religion as a powerful change agent that can breed hatred and fear or mutual understanding, peace and love. Coming to understand one’s own religion in the presence of other faiths opens a sphere for discourse, trust, and peace building.

Utilizing the unique model of the Penn State Multi-Faith Center, my study examines how the public university might become the conduit through which campus ministry is revitalized in a seemingly fledging church. The intention is to replicate the model first at the University of Minnesota, and eventually across the United States as an effective way to renew Christian ministry in conjunction with creating space for other faith traditions.