Last night was a memorable one for sure. I sat anxiously at my computer watching the live stream of Campus Crusade's U.S staff conference in Colorado awaiting the announcement of the organization's name change.
After 60 years of being 'Campus Crusade for Christ', it was time for change. A Spirit-led change. I will be the first to admit that when I heard a few months ago that CCC was in the process of renaming, I was angry. Why would they do that? What in the world would they name it? If it ain't broke, don't fix it. I'm pretty sure I put that on a survey they asked staff to fill out.
After listening to Steve Sellers, V.P of CCCI and U.S National Director (yeah, he's kind of a big deal), share the vision behind the name change, my heart changed and I had an overwhelming sense of peace (the kind that can only come from the Lord) that change can be a good thing. Especially if it means reaching more people with the gospel. Steve shared this powerful video to help illustrate.
Cru was not even originally in the running. Campus Crusade worked with research groups and sought a lot of help from people (experts) outside the organization. The research group narrowed the pool of names down to 4, but they had to have 5, so they threw in Cru only because they had to have 5 choices. And, after testing, it was the overwhelming choice. According to the research, 'Crescendo' would've been our new name if Cru hadn't been added. 'Transformers' was also in the running. See how sovereign the God we serve is?!
The name Campus Crusade for Christ limited effectiveness of spreading the gospel around the world. It's too religious sounding and people lose interest too quickly. It had to be a name that is relevant to a changing world. When Bill Bright started Campus Crusade for Christ 60 years ago, it was just on college campuses. Hence the word "campus" in the title. Well, now, we are not just a college movement. There are so many parts of this organization that go beyond the universities (i.e the JesusFilm).
"Crusade" must have been a really cool word back in the 50's, but not so much anymore. It's too old school. Not effective in reaching this generation.
As for Christ not being mentioned in our name, I'm OK with it. People get so easily turned-off by overtly religious words and therefore resist hearing the gospel. They put up walls that are not easily broken down. Hopefully, by the way we love people they will know we are followers of Christ.
The new logo has cool symbolism that really explains what we are all about, taking the gospel to the 4 corners of the world. One day, people from every tribe, every tongue, and every nation will stand before the throne and before the Lamb. The 4 corners of the world will connect because of the cross. Even the color scheme of the new logo was well thought out. It has an urban/ethnic vibe to it. Much like the direction the movement is heading to reach the unreached people groups of the world. I like it.
I am so thankful for our leadership and how they wholeheartedly sought the Lord in making this decision.
If you would like to read more about the name change please visit
http://www.ccci.org/about-us/donor-relations/our-new-name/index.htm
Christianity Today Article
In the spirit of change, maybe I'll change up my prayer letter a bit. It has been 3 years...we'll see. ;)
So glad our name isn't 'Transformers',
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