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College examines religious life on campus
A report based on a year-long exploration of religious programs on campus was recently released, finding that Lafayette has provided students with a “healthy community that
embraces multiculturalism and the acceptance of other faiths.” However, the committee also recommended steps that could further enhance the program.
Appointed in January 2003 by Board of Trustees Chair Alan Griffith ’64 and chaired by Trustee Barbara Levy ’77, the committee included alumni, faculty, administrators, and students. A recent survey showed that religious preference among students is about 38 percent Catholic, 24 percent Protestant, 10 percent none, 9 percent Jewish, 5 percent other, 1.4 percent Orthodox, 1.2 percent Muslim, and less than 1
percent Hindu or Buddhist. About 12 percent of students gave no response.
The report suggested that
because the role of chaplain has become much broader over the years, particularly as a result of Chaplain Gary Miller’s initiatives, that it be re-titled director of the religious program. Miller had previously announced his retirement as chaplain as of the end of this semester, which
enabled the committee to take a broader look at staffing than would otherwise have occurred. The director would retain many of the responsibilities that Miller currently has, such as working with chaplains of other faiths (Jewish, Catholic, Muslim) who serve the College, holding brown-bag lunches that feature talks on
religious and ethical topics, and being involved with community outreach programs.
The most significant change suggested is that the director would not have to be of a
particular faith, a current
requirement for the position
of chaplain.
Other recommendations
included:
expand educational programming that focuses on ethical issues, promotion of intercultural understanding, and theological matters,
examine funding for all
religious programs and
raise alumni awareness,
develop a strategy to address the needs for renovation of Hogg Hall and Colton Chapel,
explore opportunities to create stronger ties with local religious organizations.
In a series of focus groups conducted for the committee, a common theme was the inadequacy of facilities available for religious programming. Students expressed strong
concern for a “sacred space” devoted exclusively to worship and not a multipurpose area. The report also recommended that the College “clarify its formal relationship with the Presbyterian Church.”
During Miller’s 31 years at Lafayette, he has overseen an expansion of the chaplain’s role to include interfaith events, encouraging growth in student community service, and hosting discussions of
social and ethical issues.
After his retirement, Miller will continue to teach one or two courses.