Throughout Oklahoma City University, there is a multitude of religious study tracks including majors and minors, active religious organizations spanning a plethora of denominations and cultures and an overall inclusive environment appreciating and respecting varied ways of thinking.
While OCU is Methodist-affiliated, many of the classes available are about religious pluralism and being able to see perspectives from around the globe.
Within the tracks of Religion, Religion/Philosophy and Pre-Seminary, there is study of different denominations including Christianity, Judaism, Islam and/or Hinduism. There are a variety of professors and classes applying diverse ways of learning for each.
These classes include novel and text readings from a multitude of viewpoints, individual and group presentations about research findings and personal reflections on how all this added information changes, applies and/or affects one’s current perspective.
To gain more insight, Catherine Hurd, senior, discusses her experience receiving an Interfaith Studies minor. “Not all the professors are United Methodists. The school is very open-minded and is not focused on reasons why someone should be a United Methodist … I would say that the majority of the time people are open, accepting, and inquisitive about other world religions. Personally, I have respect for people who practice other religions and love any opportunity I get to learn about and serve alongside others!”
Currently, some of the active religious organizations include Better Together, Delta Alpha Chi, Kappa Phi, Wesley Center, Baptist Collegiate Ministry, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Catholic Student Association and Jewish Stars. Many of these organizations have service events ranging from community work, fundraising for a specific charity, mission trips near and far, etc.
If you are searching for a place to grow your knowledge, relationships and community with a specific organization, follow their socials or visit the OCU Engage website to hear about upcoming meetings and events. During these events, there are chances to check in and reconnect mentally, emotionally and spiritually after extensive school schedules.
“I believe that the presence of world religions is so vital in our society. I love learning more about the intersections, commonalities, and uniqueness of different religions. I would love to see a world free of religious violence and full of understanding and love for others,” Hurd said.
These ideals encompass OCU’s mission; even if you are not a religious studies major or even not religious, seeing the humanity and viewpoints of others with an open mind appears in socio-academic conversations and everyday relationships alike.
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