C H A P E L   N E W S - SEPTEMBER 2009

A New Generation!

The secret is out—this generation of college students is more religious and is more interested in exploring religious traditions than many previous generations.  Recent national surveys show an interesting shift in the religious and spiritual lives of students.   While they are more committed to their own faith, students are also more open to interfaith dialogue and learning from and about other traditions.  And the desire to search for spiritual meaning is also stronger for this generation.  

Current Carleton students reflect these national trends.  Student involvement in each of the religious traditions has grown in recent years, as has interest in interfaith dialogue.  We have always been unusually high in how our students rank “developing a meaningful philosophy of life” as a central goal—and we remain higher than many other similar colleges.  Carleton is a lively religious and spiritual place.

So, don’t assume you are alone in your beliefs and concerns, look for groups to get involved in, explore how faith and learning do fit together, and ask the big questions of life.  You won’t be the only one!  Please join us for any of the events listed on the schedule — and see “Religious Life” on the Carleton website for more details.

In faith and hope,

Carolyn Fure-Slocum, College Chaplain