Religious Studies

Religious Studies is located in Melrose Hall

Religion is a complex and variegated phenomenon which has had a profound effect upon human culture. Religion has appeared as a dramatic and fearful encounter with the holy, as laboriously acquired spiritual discipline, as exemplary story and ritual, and as intimate communal interdependence. Religion has evoked both trust and terror, bliss and rage, peace and war, and hope and despair. In its various cultural and historical manifestations, the experience of religion has called forth the best and the worst in human conduct.

By learning to ask appropriate and productive questions about religion, one develops the capacity to know one?s own way and the ways of others as well. The academic study of religion is indeed an integral part of a liberal arts education which can create mutual respect and support within the world community.

Objectives of the department are: to provide an awareness of the place, nature, and function of religion in human life and culture; to study the history and sacred texts of a variety of world religions; and to aid students who desire to increase their knowledge and understanding of religion. Assistance is also given by the department to students preparing for the seminary and for graduate work in religious studies.