The newly-implemented policy does not limit what RUF teaches or preaches, does not alter the way RUF has operated at Vanderbilt for 23 years, and does not dictate who ultimately qualifies for leadership

Reformed University Fellowship does not support the current “all-comers” policy among religious groups at Vanderbilt University and has expressed concern with its implementation. Even so, RUF maintains its registered status with Vanderbilt’s administration, along with 26 other religious groups.

“The policy requires that all Vanderbilt students must be eligible for membership in registered student organizations and that all members in good standing must be allowed to offer themselves for leadership positions. It does not require the election of certain students to leadership positions; leaders are chosen by the organizations themselves.”

Long before the advent of the current policy, Reformed University Fellowship has welcomed all students regardless of race, color or creed as we seek to “reach students for Christ and equip them to serve.” On the subject of leadership, any student in RUF may seek a leadership position, but there are legitimate criteria they must meet to become a leader.

Because each RUF is led by an ordained minister under the authority and supervision of the Presbyterian Church in America, RUF has not been impaired by the policy allowing “all members in good standing to seek leadership posts.” Each campus minister has completed a stringent ordination process and is responsible to preserve the integrity and purity of RUF in developing leadership. This structure acts as a safeguard as opposed to a statement of faith for leaders required by other ministries.

Reformed University Fellowship respects the other ministries that have protested the Vanderbilt policy. We have prayed with them and for them during this difficult time. The national leadership of RUF determined to refrain from public protest while involved internally (a privilege granted to us because of our chaplaincy status) to discourage the implementation of this policy. We do not seek to bind the consciences of those whose philosophy of ministry will not permit them to minister at Vanderbilt without fundamental compromise. We declare together with them that RUF will never comply with a request to change our practice, message, or faithful preaching of the Gospel as expressed in the inerrant, infallible and inspired Word of God.

The newly-implemented policy does not limit what RUF teaches or preaches, does not alter the way RUF has operated at Vanderbilt for 23 years, and does not dictate who ultimately qualifies for leadership. For these reasons, Reformed University Fellowship is confident (for the time being) of its ability to function at Vanderbilt without compromise under the policy as stated.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have further questions.

Rod Mays
RUF National Coordinator

[email protected]