Macalester seems like an interesting and very liberal college. I was surprised to discover the affiliation with the Presbyterian church after reading quite a bit about the school. Is it a religious school? How might an atheist/humanist person feel there?
Posted Dec 21, 2020, 2:29 PM UTC
I’m agnostic and I’ve never noticed an overbearing religious presence. The chapel and other religious resources are there for students who seek them out, but that’s all. The campus overall feels totally secular.
Agree with all of the above; I’d like to add that even if you’re not practicing, the chaplains are super kind, non-proselytizing, and a fantastic resource on campus. Rabbi Emma in particular; she does a lot of work with student social justice groups on campus; we run in similar circles.
That’s great to hear :)
Based on my experience a couple years ago - the affiliation is essentially historical, it does not really manifest itself anywhere in the student experience (though religious staff and facilities exist, for those who want to engage with them). The affiliation - already with one of the most liberal branches of Christianity - certainly does not show anywhere in curricula.
Essentially, you could go your entire college career without encountering any religion beyond perhaps the occasional (and non-denominational!) peace prayer at events. I will say however that the chapel is a BEAUTIFUL building, and would encourage at least taking a look at it?
Thanks so much. This is exactly what I suspected.
On a side note, who do I convince to let me say peace prayers? I wanna speak in my language that pretty much nobody will understand
I wish I knew - would have loved to hear more European languages during my time there!
I don't speak an european language though
I believe Macalester’s religious affiliation has been sort of traded for a focus on Internationalism. Today the school is nondenominational
Cool. Thanks for the responses.
NO!!!
:) got it
Other than the chapel/center for religious life being kinda central on campus, it doesn't feel religious at all. As an atheist, the religious affiliation has absolutely no impact on my life
It has new roofs