Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC) was founded in 1978 by Michael Cavanaugh at Oswego State University. The club is a student-led college ministry. BASIC exists on about 30 campuses all over the state. The chapter at Saint Rose has been around for more than 20 years.
Brothers and Sisters in Christ President Tiara Johnson ’20 is a communications major with a concentration in public relations. She has been a member of BASIC throughout her time at Saint Rose. We asked Tiara a few questions about BASIC and how other students can get involved.
Q: What is the club’s mission?
A: We are a nonprofit organization serving local churches to reach college students. We believe that college students are a catalyst for change and have an immense impact on our world to extend the Kingdom of God. We believe that together, we can encourage one another in our faith and grow to be young men and women of character as we serve God and our campus community.
Q: Why is it important that the campus community participates?
A: We believe that God created us all on purpose and with purpose. Together, we are embarking on a journey of discovery, so that we may all live our lives to the fullest in service to Him and mankind.
Q: What have you learned by joining BASIC?
A: I have learned that I am not alone and that God loves me and is always with me. I have also learned that there is a supportive community of other believers who stand with me — ready to embrace, encourage, and strengthen me when I am weak. I have learned that my life is to be poured out in service to God and others.
Q: What do you want people to know about BASIC that they might not already know?
A: We are a Christian community that believes wholeheartedly in God’s word and His promises. While we are not perfect, we want to follow the teachings of Jesus and embrace and love others no matter where they’re coming from. Just as He loves us, we want to show love to others.
Q: What’s in store this year (events, activities, causes)?
A: This year we will attend our biennial conference in Rochester, New York (BASICCON) in November and April. We also have a Thanks Gathering – a meal together centered around giving thanks. Also, out of gratitude, we plan to participate in Operation Christmas Child where we fill shoeboxes with gifts for needy children around the world. We plan to spend a day serving at the Capital City Rescue Mission here in Albany. Here on our very own campus, we will have our 2nd Annual Project Kindness during the Spring Semester. We will host at least one musical worship event this year. We will host at least one fundraiser each semester. We also do fun things like game nights, bowling, etc.
Q: How can students get involved?
A: BASIC meets weekly in the Interfaith Sanctuary on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. for about one hour. We also welcome participation in some of our events.
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