Students Sometimes Adopt New Religious Beliefs

December 30, 2000

Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch

On December 30, 2000, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported that religious experts cite a recent growth of religious life on college campuses, and the accompanying trend of students coming home from school with religious beliefs different than their families. "Some students," they say, "are turning toward a more lasting commitment to religion, while others are looking for a type of spirituality different from the beliefs they got from their parents." The result may be a feeling of alienation from parents, who may not support their children's new interests. As one student described the situation, "that's the hardest thing, is not having the blessing. I feel like I'm choosing between God and my family." Another student convert warned, "the initial stages of conversion are a trying time for all involved, and both sides must learn to accept their differences."

See also: Interfaith, Campus