Beta Sigma Psi becomes first Lutheran fraternity at UNL

[ISUKappa]

Originally Posted by kathykd2005

How can you say their primary focus if you've never been in one of them?

In what, Beta Sigma Psi or another fraternity/sorority that claims to have been founded on Christian ideals?

Beta Sig has a very active chapter at my undergrad, Iowa State, and I knew quite a few members. I believe the men were highly encouraged to be active in the local Lutheran churches, one of which was the church I attended. The chapter also had frequent devotionals and bible studies. While it is not a requirement to be Lutheran, or even Christian for that matter, to be a member of Beta Sigma Psi they are very upfront that if you become a member, Christian, and specifically Lutheran, spiritual principles are a primary focus of the fraternity. This gives a good idea of how Beta Sig involves spiritual faith as an aspect of their organization.

While I cannot speak for other NPC/NIC organizations that were founded with Christian principles in mind, I do not believe, anymore, the organizations can globally promote being Christian-centered without potentially "turning off" potential members who have different ideals. Individual chapters may have group bible studies and devotionals, but they are not required as such by their Inter/National Headquarters. Hence, Beta Sigma Psi has found a niche for their organizations on the campuses on which they have chapters.

Other Christian GLOs, such as Phi Beta Chi, have the same ideals as Beta Sigma Psi, but are not part of the NIC/NPC.

[OldAOPi]

Beta Sig used to be on UNL's campus, as well as Kearney State, which is now UNK. They were at Kearney State when I was there, and from what I remember, were a "normal" fraternity - had the same events and formals as every other organization at the time. They weren't zealots or anything like that, just a bunch of guys who either came from strong Lutheran backgrounds, or just liked the house and what the represented. I don't remember why they folded at either campus, but when I was there, they were a popular group. I should know, I married one! In fact, our first date was their formal. And it was a great time! What you would expect from any normal fraternity formal. And I will leave it at that!