Crux: A First-Year Discipleship Cohort
Learn. Partner. Journey. Together.
Crux is a one-year academic and spiritual formation program for first-year students at North Park University. Rooted in our values—Christian, city-centered, and intercultural—Crux invites you into a cohort experience where faith, learning, and community intersect.
Discipleship Philosophy: Dynamism
The word dynamic comes from the New Testament Greek dunamis, meaning power. At Crux, discipleship isn’t about rigid doctrine—it’s about real relationships and a shared pursuit of Jesus, who came not to reinforce belief systems but to transform lives.
Why join Crux?
- Grow in your faith through thoughtful classes and spiritual formation groups
- Serve Chicago through hands-on partnerships and immersive experiences
- Build deep relationships with peers, mentors, and faculty
- Explore racial justice and intercultural discipleship
- Fulfill general education requirements while pursuing your major
What you’ll do
- Take 2–3 classes each semester with your cohort
- Join a weekly spiritual formation group
- Engage in service with local organizations
- Participate in city immersion experiences
- Travel together for the Chicago Mosaic Experience and beyond
- Be mentored by North Park Theological Seminary students and Crux staff
Who should apply?
Crux is for first-year students from any background who want to:
- Follow Jesus in a diverse, supportive community
- Commit to spiritual growth and justice
- Learn from Chicago and its people
- Live out a holistic, grace-centered faith
FAQ
No—both commuters and residential students are welcome.
No extra tuition. Scholarships available for Crux-related activities.
Not at all. Crux courses meet general education requirements.
- Apply and be accepted to North Park University as a first-year student
- Submit your Crux application
- Include a reference
- Priority deadline: May 1. Rolling admission after.
Ready to begin your journey?
Be part of a cohort where Jesus, justice, and joy meet.
Apply to CruxContact
University Ministries
Center for Student Engagement
Nancy and G. Timothy Johnson Center for Science and Community Life
5141 N. Christiana Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
Matthew Butin, Crux program coordinator
mwbutin@northpark.edu