Parents

Welcome to RUF at Texas Tech. We want you to know that we are here for you as your children leave for college. RUF is here to help you by ministering to your children during this challenging but exciting time in their lives. 

Over the years, there are questions that parents typically ask that we thought we would include in a page dedicated especially for you. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any other questions not included here.  Our Campus Minister, Steve Percifield is here for you!  

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is RUF? 

RUF is the official campus ministry of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) that welcomes students from all churched and non-churched backgrounds. We are an officially recognized student organization at Texas Tech. For 30 years RUF campus ministers have been reaching students for Christ and equipping students to serve on over 100 campuses nationwide. Though receiving oversight from the PCA, RUF chapters are non-denominational in terms of their fellowship as reflected in our students who come from all backgrounds, ethnicities, and denominations. All are welcome! 

2. What does "Reformed" mean? 

In the simplest terms, the word "Reformed" simply refers to the theology and confessions that arose out of the "Protestant Reformation." Therefore, RUF's theology is in full agreement with orthodox protestant Christianity. 

3. Is RUF a Bible study only for Christians? 

Absolutely not. RUF is open to all who are looking to consider the truth claims of Jesus Christ. 

4. What does RUF do? 

RUF's ministry is composed of at least five different kinds of activities. 

1. RUF Large Group is our most visible activity and usually the easiest way for students to get involved with the ministry. The evening consists of a time of singing and worship ending with a message from Scripture, all in a non-threatening atmosphere. This is usually the place where your student can find out more details about the ministry of RUF and how they can become more involved. 

2. In any given semester, students participate in small group Bible studies. These groups are very informal in design and give students the chance to look deeper into a topic as well as build deep friendships with other students. This is also an area where students have the opportunity to develop the skills of leading others and ministering to peers in a structured context.

3. RUF's commitment to reaching and equipping students means that one-on-one meetings with students is a vital part of our ministry. Steve is available to meet with students if they so desire.  This time is usually spent getting to know each other personally, investing in on-going discipleship, dealing with specific personal issues struggles, and addressing any crisis counseling that might arise during the student's development during college.

4. At least a few times during the year, RUF is committed to getting out of town and gathering with other Christians for student conferences. Fall Conference, Spring Break Missions, and Summer Conference are all possible opportunities for students to get more involved, grow and serve.

5. If you read all of the above, you might think we're serious all the time. Not true. We try to have times throughout the semester when we hang out, go out to eat, watch movies, grill out, play games, take road trips (camping or even skiing), etc. This is a part of college - making friends, talking, and enjoying each other. 

5. Can you contact my student? 

We are more than happy to contact your student and give him or her a personal invitation to RUF. One small request that we make of you in this area is that you not ask us to contact your student if you are not willing for us to mention that YOU asked us to call. We have found over the years that the anonymous "cold call" can be counter-productive. 

6. But what if my student doesn't like RUF? 

RUF is not so self-centered that we assume that this ministry is for everyone. Therefore, we are more than happy to suggest that your child contact any of the other evangelical ministries on campus to see if perhaps they can be a help in a ways that we can not.

7. How is RUF @ Texas Tech funded?

Most people are surprised to hear that RUF @Texas Tech  is funded completely through the generous contributions of churches and individuals.  If you are interested in making a tax-deductible contribution toward RUF @ Texas Tech, it is as easy as donating online. Click here for instructions