It was a beautiful autumn afternoon when a bright, ambitious PhD student strolled past our table. Christian ministries were the furthest thing from his mind, but science was an ever-present reflection which gave our whiteboard question (Christianity and Science: Allies or Enemies?) just enough intrigue to draw him over for a chat. That conversation marked the beginning of a life-transforming spiritual adventurefor Luis. After that day, he began to pour into the evidence for God’s existence and, eventually, for Christianity. Ten months later, though still a non-Christian, Luis was tabling for RC. At one point during our outreach, he turned to me and declared he was ready to trust Jesus as his personal Savior. We prayed together and the angels celebrated as Luis crossed from death to life eternal. Since that time, Luis has continued his rigorous study of apologetics and the scriptures. He has also developed a burning heart for the lost. He is currently our evangelism officer, leading others on the same path he once walked – the narrow path that leads to life. – Andrew Foland, RC Purdue Chapter Director
When did you come to Christ as Lord and Savior, and how did that come about?
I came to Christ on August 26th, 2024. It took place during Ratio Christi tabling after months of reading, asking questions, pondering, more reading, doubting, and more questions, all enabled and facilitated by the Ratio Christi Purdue Chapter.
In your high school church youth group, how much did you learn about the Christian faith and reasons to believe?
I grew up overseas in a Catholic high school, so I was not involved in youth group related activities. My knowledge of the Christian faith was about average. Around the age of 15 I left the Christian faith and with that any real intentions of learning about Christianity and religion.
How did you become interested in apologetics, and how did you get involved with Ratio Christi?
I became interested in apologetics entirely because of Ratio Christi. As a non-believer, I got involved by mainly attending the weekly meetings and asking questions. Later as a believer, I felt more comfortable attending more events such as the Bible study and tabling sessions.
What is this RC chapter like?
I would describe the chapter as ideologically diverse, filled with thoroughly capable and knowledgeable people. The regular attendees, both believers and non-believers, present challenges that motivate me to dive deeper and build a strong foundation of reason for the core doctrines of Christianity.
What were some of your favorite areas of involvement with your local chapter?
The tabling sessions and the main meeting. Tabling was a space that allowed me to ask questions. Later, as a Christian, it serves me as an easy way to reach to other students and share the value of apologetics regardless of one’s religious views.
What does the Legatus Christi award mean to you?
The Legatus Christi award is a reminder that I don’t do this for myself, but for Christ and his Gospel message. Apologetics, evangelism, and discipleship are all crucial aspects that Ratio Christi instructs to its Christian members and that I will bring with me wherever I go, and this award confirms that I have started in the right direction. Nonetheless, I have much to grow, read, and learn.
How do you envision taking the apologetics you have learned through Ratio Christi into your future endeavors?
Apologetics will be something I will carry with me during my day to day. Any moment that leads to a Gospel conversation, I know that I can bring some reasons to believe in addition to my testimony and Christ’s sacrifice.
What are your short and long-term career/ministry/mission plans?
Short-term career plans include entering the workforce in industry. I am aiming to be in the pharmaceutical research field which is strongly related to my current doctoral studies. Long-term plans include ministry. I am still undecided on what, when, and how it will take place. Prayers are always appreciated.
Would you consider coming back to work with your RC chapter, starting one at another school, or working with RC in any other capacity?
Absolutely. Apologetics and evangelism will always be the focus of my ministry work. I particularly would like to focus my efforts on the science-minded skeptics (like my former self) and the Restorationist groups.
What would you say to other students who might be considering getting involved in Ratio Christi, whether they are skeptics, seekers, or believers?
Do it. If you have a heartbeat and are willing to listen, this is for you. Think of Ratio Christi as an opportunity to look into the evidence for the truth of Christianity. Whether you decide to believe it or not is up to you, but you can leave every meeting knowing that there are many reasons to believe and that the Christian faith does not rely on intellectual blindness.