Campus Lifeline

Rev. Steve Runholt
December 7, 2005

One of the common myths at Warren Wilson College is that the average Wilson student is not interested in organized religion. Like any myth, there is some truth in that notion. But one of the nice things about being the new kid on the block (I started here as Pastor of Warren Wilson Presbyterian Church and Chaplain to the College last July) is that I don't have to believe that myth!

Indeed, I have evidence to the contrary. We regularly have anywhere between eight and 15 students worshiping with us on Sunday morning. Our Monday night fellowship group is also thriving - we get about the same number for that group. What's more, with one or two exceptions, the students who come on Sunday morning are not the same ones that come on Monday night. I would thus say roughly 20 to 30 students are involved weekly in worship or fellowship here - and this out of an 800 member student body.

We have also enjoyed terrific success with a new Taizé service, which we started this fall and now hold on the first Sunday evening of every month. Attendance for this service is averaging right around 60 people. I would estimate that approximately a third of those in attendance are affiliated with the college in some way - either students, faculty or staff. And again, many of the students who come to the Taizé service are different from the ones who come on Sunday mornings or Monday nights, boosting the number who are involved in "organized religion" still further.

Another myth at Warren Wilson is that Christians must be embarrassed about their faith. I actually understand that sentiment in some respects. Nowadays when Christian leaders make the news it's often for embarrassing things like calling for the assassination of foreign dictators, or trying to redefine science or justice.

But again, I'm pleased to say that this is not my myth. Rather, I am committed to giving students the resources and support they need to practice their faith with joy and without apology. Obviously many students at Warren Wilson will remain skeptical of Christianity and of Christians, but that's true of any campus, anywhere. But I am glad to tell you that the Christian groups here, and the ministry of the Chapel in general, are a positive and compassionate presence on this campus. Not everyone will believe in what we are doing, but they will nevertheless know we are Christians by our love, and by our joy and our compassion. And, increasingly, by our numbers.