What's a POD?
A POD is a small group of 3-5 students doing life together on campus — not a replacement for regular URCF gatherings, and not a long list of rules to follow. It's simply a framework for building the kind of relationships that actually help you navigate college with your faith intact. Real people, real connection, and a shared commitment to growing together through whatever the semester brings.
Each POD is led by a student who keeps things moving and stays accountable to URCF leadership. The groups are intentionally small so that no one gets lost in the crowd and everyone actually notices when someone isn't showing up.
What's Expected
Show up. Weekly meetups are scheduled around everyone's availability, with a monthly Bible study built in. Consistency is the foundation that trust gets built on, so treat your POD like the priority it is.
Participate. Every voice in the room matters, so come ready to engage and not just observe. PODs work best when everyone brings something to the table and gives others the space to do the same.
Go deeper. Surface-level is easy to maintain but it won't get you far. PODs are designed for something more meaningful than small talk — embrace accountability, let people actually know what's going on with you, and create space for others to do the same.
Flag concerns. If something feels off — whether it's a family concern, someone struggling with how they see themselves, or behavior that seems out of character — bring it to leadership/PB quickly rather than waiting to see how things unfold. That's what real community does for one another.
The Goal
College has a way of feeling isolating even when you're constantly surrounded by people. PODs exist so that doesn't have to be your experience at URCF. The goal is a real campus family — people who reflect Christ in how they treat each other and who help you grow in faith while navigating everything college throws at you.