Western Michigan University - Brown and Gold Yearbook (Kalamazoo, MI)

Page 17 text:

Dr. Ernest F. Tittle, of Evanston, Illinois, was the main speaker at Western Michigan College during Religious Emphasis Week. Un- der his leadership and guidance the importance of religion in col- lege life was discussed. Church life plays an important part in the life of every college student. The Presbyterian Church is one of the many churches to be found in Kalamazoo, and is typical of the opportunities given to all students for worship. Each church offers many occasions for religious and social growth. 13

Page 16 text:

RELIGION AT WESTERN The religious services and activities in which the students of Western participate are a fundamental part of the campus life. Spiritual development is no more separate from the whole tradition that is Western than are the cultural, physical, and social opportunities which our school offers. Western students take part in the activities of numerous churches within the community. Nearly every denomination is present in the student body and a general interest in church affairs is notable. Our students are found in the choirs, in the young people ' s groups and teaching the children ' s classes of many of the churches. The most notable religious organization for college students is the inter- church Young People ' s Association formed under the sponsorship of the Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, and Congregational churches of Kalamazoo for the purpose of meeting the general religious needs of college students, while at the same time affording an opportunity for closer cooperation between the college students of various denominations. Under the leadership of Dr. Lewis Batts the group meets each Sunday evening for discussion and a social hour. These meetings are open to all students of college age. The Catholic youth of the college are organized into the Newman Club and various other churches maintain their own student organizations. Each year one week is set aside to be observed as Religious Emphasis Week throughout the college. During this week, various speakers are brought to the campus, student meetings are held, and the value and necessity of spiritual development in addition to college life is emphasized. 12

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Studying, bull sessions, ex- tra-curricular activities, and war work — all take a part of each student ' s day. 14