College can be a thrilling experience and a period for both academic and interpersonal growth. But many Christians, especially those who are heading off to a school not affiliated with their religion, fear that their faith may wither or even pass away during their years at their school.
With the right approach, however, Christians can grow in their relationship with God no matter what college they attend.
Reading the Bible and Other Christian Literature
The Bible, naturally, is an excellent resource for Christians in college to have. Whether they read in a specific manner or simply turn to whichever book and chapter interests them, believers will find plenty of spiritual comfort within the Bible’s pages. The emotion and longing found within the Psalms should offer support to anyone feeling low spiritually, and the story of Christ’s passion can remind Christians of the tremendous love that God has for them.
Other Christian literature can help college students grow in their faith as well. Works of apologetics, either by C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton or any writer a student is particularly attracted to can help Christians understand their faith and the benefits it offers. If one feels doubtful or unsure about a particular point in Christianity (a common feeling, and one that can lead to spiritual growth), they are sure to find a text that can bring them to an answer, or at least closer to one.
Given that college is a time to go beyond one’s preconceptions and traditional understandings, students should not be afraid to pick up a piece of Christian literature that challenges some of their notions. Catholics would do well to read some famous work by a Protestant author, and Protestants should explore the Catholic faith, either by reading parts of the Catechism of the Catholic Church or by picking up a spiritual classic by a Catholic saint. In an era of conflict between the many denominations of Christianity, many Christian college students seek to understand and appreciate authors from different spiritual backgrounds.
Finding a Solid Church in the College Community
Students should capitalize on any opportunity to attend church near their dorm, as a strong church can help them grow in their faith while in college. Whether their campus location is a small town or a bustling city, Christians are likely to find a center for spiritual growth in their area.
This church may not be affiliated with their denomination at home, and might conflict with some of their views. Nevertheless, given that college is a time to explore and examine one’s beliefs, students should not be afraid to attend a church whose viewpoints do not always match with their own.
Discovering and Meeting With Spiritual Advisors
Christian students whose college offers a chaplain should take the time to meet with him or her, especially if they have a spiritual dilemma or feel troubled in their faith. Priests of local churches make excellent spiritual resources as well.
College students can also find faith-related support in professors, whether in the religion department or involved with another field. Professors who lead Christian student groups on campus can be especially strong sources of support and help for students feeling threatened in their faith at college.
Joining a Christian Group on Campus
On-campus spiritual groups are a wonderful resource for Christian college students. The chance to worship and talk with other religious students is one that all students should take, given the support and joy that a strong faith-related group can provide.
If students feel that such a club does not yet exist in their schools, they should try founding a new group that would better fit their needs.
Feeling Excited, not Worried About the Years of College to Come
Students’ experiences in college can form some of their favorite memories in life. Given the great benefits a college education offers, students should not be afraid to talk with people who do not share their religious background or take classes from professors who may disagree with their views. Indeed, such people can provide them with a new perspective on religions that do not match their own.
With so many ways to develop their faith in college, Christian students need not fear any challenges to their belief that may arise. Fellow students, spiritual advisors, church congregations and religious texts can all help them develop and strengthen their faith and engage them in religious conversation. If students capitalize on the opportunities they have for growth in Christ, college will be something to enjoy, not something to fear.
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