Faith is on the rise

In January, 13 Mount Marty students attended the SEEK conference, an annual event hosted by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. The SEEK conference gives college students the opportunity to hear from experienced faith leaders, participate in the sacraments and build community. Returning to campus, these students brought renewed faith and a desire to share it. Benedictine Missionary Ted Bengston encouraged these students to spread their faith within their circles, resulting in more student-led Bible studies across academic groups and, especially, athletic teams.

Now, 10 students are leading eight Bible studies within both athletic and academic groups — six of whom were inspired by SEEK. “These leaders have replaced surface-level conversations with deep, meaningful discussions around their faith,” Bengston said. “We’ve been emphasizing the importance of forming students as a whole person: mind, body and soul. We’re building a culture of faith on campus, where attending Bible studies, going to church, and talking about our faith are normal, exciting occurrences instead of afterthoughts. It’s also a great way to build a community of faithful student leaders on campus so that they can see they’re not alone in this movement.”

James Lichty '27, leader of the football Bible study, said he felt inspired to spread the Gospel after the SEEK conference. Currently reading the book of Romans, the group uses each meeting to discuss the themes that resonate with them. “I heard a saying once that the only thing you can take to heaven is the people you bring with you,” Lichty said. “Knowing and understanding that gave me the realization that the most important thing in life is relationships, with both God and the people around you. So, if I can help point my teammates in the right direction, lead by example, and have a few laughs along the way, I figure I’m not doing half bad.”

Lichty sees these meetings as a chance to connect with his teammates on a deeper level. While position groups naturally bond during the year, Lichty says bringing men from all positions together to discuss faith has been special. “This Bible study builds relationships within our team, allowing us to talk about topics that most people would try to avoid," Lichty said. "It allows guys who maybe don’t have a huge faith life to get to know more about Jesus and other men trying to grow closer to God.” Interest in the Bible study has been consistent, with as many as 15 players gathering each week.

Julia Weber '26 and Caitlin Guenther '28 started a volleyball Bible study, wanting to bring a piece of their SEEK experience back to Yankton. "SEEK is such a life-changing experience," Weber explained. "I wanted people back home at Mount Marty to be able to experience at least a glimpse of it, and doing a Bible study with our volleyball team was a great place to start." Guenther returned from the conference feeling changed. "There is a constant desire to get to know Jesus, express gratitude for all He's given us in this life on earth, and to share this with others," Guenther said.

Each week, Weber and Guenther organize meetings as open conversations rather than formal lessons. With Christian music playing softly in the background, the group will discuss various topics, including reflections on the current liturgical season, prayer, personal callings and being an athlete — always connecting these discussions back to scripture. Currently, they are studying the Gospel of Matthew and 1 Corinthians, sparking thought-provoking conversations. Guenther appreciates how the study enables team members to connect more deeply, fostering genuine friendships. “Knowing you have a tight-knit group of friends that will hold you accountable in your faith and be there to bring you back is one of the most important aspects of our lives here on earth,” she said. An average of 13 players attend the Bible study each week.

These Bible studies are open to students of any religion, with leaders aiming to meet students where they are. “Faith is important to share with others because I know that everyone goes through struggles,” Weber said. “I want them to be able to know Jesus and turn to Him in these struggles instead of trying to do it on their own.”

For any students interested in joining one of the campus Bible studies, please reach out to our Benedictine Missionaries, Ted Bengston and Kaylee Miller, for more information at campusministry@mountmarty.edu.

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About Mount Marty University

Founded in 1936 by the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery, Mount Marty University is South Dakota's only Catholic, Benedictine institution of higher education. Located along the bluffs of the Missouri River in Yankton, with additional locations in Watertown and Sioux Falls, Mount Marty offers undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on student and alumni success in high-demand fields such as health sciences, education, criminal justice, business, accounting, recreation management, and more. A community of learners in the Benedictine tradition, Mount Marty emphasizes academic excellence and develops well-rounded students with intellectual competence, professional and personal skills and moral, spiritual and social values. To learn more, visit mountmarty.edu.