An upcoming expo will expose students to cultures and religions different than their own.
The World Religion Expo is sponsored by the introduction to biblical literature and introduction to world religion courses as part of their service-learning component.
The expo will have booths representing several Protestant denominations as well as Catholic, Jewish, Muslim, Baha’i, Buddhist, Dao, and other religions.
“In the past, we have offered a variety of activities, an opportunity to participate in Buddhist meditation, Tai Chi, dance, and more,” said the Rev. Dr. Leslie Long, associate professor of religion. “Every year is different.”
Several booths will have food with connections to their religion or culture.
Students can learn about the beliefs, worship traditions and other facts from each faith community.
“I think ignorance for religions is a bad thing in the United States, especially now, so being educated helps others realize that they aren’t bad, but just different,” said Kirsten Schiska, biomedical sciences freshman.
“A lot of people are ignorant about other religions. Education is key.”
Students and other visitors are encouraged to ask questions as they move from booth to booth.
“I think that the expo is a good idea as long as it stays open to all religions and faith bases or lack thereof and remains a place for sharing information rather than conversion,” said Franziska Harms, acting sophomore.
The World Religion Expo will be 2-5 p.m. April 3 on the first floor of the Gold Star Memorial Building.
It is free and open to the public.
For more information, contact Long at llong@okcu.edu or 405-208-5176.
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