This page is meant especially for those with an interest in majoring in Religious Studies. You might be a current Saint Mary's student, or you might presently be in high school and visiting this website from far away (if you're a prospective Saint Mary's student, please be sure to visit the Admission Office's Home Page). Whatever your status or circumstances, browse the comments below from both past and present Religious Studies majors about their experiences in the program. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail the students directly. And follow this link to learn more about the Religious Studies major or minor.

	Mary Gross: Class of 2010 (Religious Studies/English Literature double major) "Religious Studies allows me to explore the rich history and the 'real life' applications of my faith. The major is unique because it calls the women of Saint Mary's to realize their own beauty within the Catholic tradition and equips them to share it with the world."
	Sarah King: Class of 2009 (Religious Studies major) ""

(Back Row from left to right) Emily Moynihan, Ashley Keye, Sara Sabie, Kim Abeel, Katie Good, Brittany Taylor;
(Front Row from left to right) Stephanie James, Amalia Kickenson, Megan Wetekamp

	Kimberly Abeel: Class of 2008 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) ""
	Sarah Sabie: Class of 2008 (Religious Studies major) ""
	Megan Wetekamp: Class of 2008 (Religious Studies major) ""

(Back Row from left to right) Professor Kurt Buhring, Professor Keith Egan, Professor John Fotopoulos, Professor Phyllis Kaminski;
(Middle Row from left to right) Sr. Elena Malits, Allison Beyer, Johnnie Quigley, Kristin Curran, Etienne Melcher;
(Front Row from left to right) Professor Stacy Davis, Ashley Ingram, Molly Donner) 
 

	Allison Beyer: Class of 2007 (Religious Studies/Social Work double major) ""
	Kristin Curran: Class of 2007 (Religious Studies major) ""
	Johnnie Quigley: Class of 2007 (Religious Studies/Communication Studies double major) ""

(Back Row from left to right) Michelle Fitzgerald, Meredith Gramann, Megan Conway;
(Front Row from left to right) Jennifer Robbins, Sinnamon Wolfe, Angela Johnston, Molly Burns (not pictured: Skip Bacon)  
 

	Skip Bacon: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies) "I chose to be a religious studies major because the courses involved with the major will be beneficial for my future career in the church. In the future I hope to work as a pastorial associate with my home archdiocese in Indianapolis. This major will adequately prepare me for my future career and will also open other doors in my field of work."
	Molly Burns: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Psychology double major) ""
	Megan Conway: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies double major)
	Michelle Fitzgerald: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Political Science double major) "As a student who attended public schools all of my life prior to attending Saint Mary's, and as a child who has parents that do not stress any religious education, I had never been exposed to religion classes. However, after taking my first religion class (as required by Saint Mary's) I found myself wanting to learn more and more. I took my second religion class (again, required) and when the class ended, I still wanted to learn more. Now, I have found myself indulged in the major, expanding my horizons, studying different aspects of religious thought and concepts that I have never studied before. With this information, I am also able to enhance my learnings in other various topics throughout my education (including my other major). I definitely feel that being a Religious Studies Major at Saint Mary's is contributing to the liberal arts education I have always hoped for."
	Meredith Gramann: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/History double major) ""
	Angela Johnston: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "Since my freshman year in high school, I have had a passion for studying topics concerning religion and philosophy. For that reason, I ended up becoming attached to the subjects of Religious Studies and Philosophy here at Saint Mary's and am now double majoring in those fields. Religious Studies and Philosophy overlap so much with each other and also overlap with so many other areas of study. I am really getting a deeper outlook on life through studying these topics. I am considering studying both theology and law after I finish my time here at Saint Mary's. Regardless of what I do, I am sure that the my studies here at Saint Mary's will always be helpful to me."
	Jennifer Robbins: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies double major) "After 13 years of public schooling and countless Sunday school classes, I have realized that I have not yet learned enough about religion to satisfy my interest in it. By spending my four years here studying Humanistic Studies and Religious Studies, I plan to leave SMC with a solid understanding of the vast number of religions, cultures and ways of life around the world, and with a deeper understanding of what my own religion is. These majors will challenge me to develop reading, analyzing and critical thinking skills which will be important in all aspects of life, and especially for a career in international law."
	Sinnamon Wolfe: Class of 2006 (Religious Studies/Art double major) ""

(from left to right) Sarah Harward, Cleary Jankowski, Kaite Press, Mary Beth Swygart

	Sarah Harward: Class of 2005 (Religious Studies major)
	Cleary Jankowski: Class of 2005 (Religious Studies major) "Why am I a religious studies major? This question has been running through my mind ever since I was asked to write this 'blurb.' But I believe it comes down to one simple fact - I love God. God is life and there is nothing more important than relationship with Him. The courses in the major will inevitably challenge my faith and core beliefs, and this testing should yield a stronger, firmer faith than when I began this journey."
	Katie Press: Class of 2005 (Religious Studies major) "Looking back at major events in my life, I realize that I was destined to be a Religious Studies major from the very beginning. My youth group in high school opened a whole new world of faith and faith exploration to me. Through three summers of mission trips to Honduras, I was afforded the opportunity to see Christ in the poor. I was also fortunate enough to attend a Catholic high school where religion classes were taught as part of our core curriculum. But I was left hungry, wanting "more." And what I have learned in my time here at Saint Mary's is that the desire to learn more about Christ and the Church never goes away! And while there may be a few bumps in the along the way, the rewards thus far have only begun to whet my appetite for whatever lies ahead."
	Mary Beth Swygart: Class of 2005 (Religious Studies/Philosophy major) "A good friend of mine told me a joke that has seemed more and more profound since I heard it the first time: What do you call a priest who takes long walks? A roamin' Catholic! At first I thought probably what you are thinking right now. LAME joke. But when I thought about it more, that is what I am. I left home to roam around Saint Mary's for four years and get a better understanding of what it means to say that I am Catholic. Majoring in RLST here at Saint Mary's has taken me all over the place: I went back to Luther's Germany with Doctor Martin, St. Paul's Corinth with Doctor Fotopoulos, Aquinas' Italy with Doctor Incandela... and I still have a while to "roam" before I leave Saint Mary's, thankfully. I want to wander around through the theology with my friends here for a while yet. I feel lucky to be a Religious Studies major and I am so happy being a "roamin' Catholic."

(from left to right) Linda Janke, Romona Parks, Amanda Richer, Katie Harrison (not pictured: Amanda Garno)

	Amanda Garno: Class of 2004 (Religious Studies/Spanish double major) "The faith, knowledge, and kindness exuded by others brought me to a higher level of understanding in my own personal life. Those individuals, family, friends, and even strangers, helped shape and give meaning to my life and uncover a path that I had not known existed. Through my in depth studies of religion, I wish to gain the knowledge that is necessary to uncover that path for others."
	Katie Harrison: Class of 2004 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "I have chosen to major in Religious Studies along with Philosophy, because the two disciplines fit my personality, and what I am seeking from an education exactly. I am not interested in knowing all the answers, and I don't think that they are all going to come to me in my sleep some night, but I do like the thrill of the chase. The abilities that these two majors will give me are incparable as far as I am concerned. What better way to spend a hundred thousand dollars than learning to write, think critically, analyze, articulate, question, and reason? The majors are both challenging and refreshing, and at the same time, I am excited to know that what I am learning in them will be a huge benefit as I pursue a career in law. I hope to further my study of ethics and religion, and use them as a tool in the future. My mother is right, we do need more lawyers who think, and I know that what I am learning here at Saint Mary's is the best path to becoming just that."
	Linda Janke: Class of 2004 (Religious Studies/Communication Studies double major) "Somehwere along the line It became my dream to work in youth ministries. I have always been very involved with youth ministry programs and decided that I needed to give back to others the awesome experiences that I have been blessed to have. Plain and simple I think faith is something to get excited about, and the more you learn about it, the more excited you can get about it and the more you can share with others. I'm excited for all I get to learn in this major, and all the places this knowledge will take me. Romans 8:28."
	Romona Parks: Class of 2004 (Religious Studies major) ""I could flood this page with all of the great reasons why RLST is a wonderful major, but instead I'll just make this personal and to the point. I didn't choose this major, it chose me. I began as a Nursing major but unfortunately I did not do very well academically. Due to my low GPA I was forced to leave Nursing behind. At the end of my second year I was asked to choose another major. I knew without a doubt that it would be RLST. My RLST classes are where I feel most comfortable on campus. My life experiences are acknowledged, my preconceived notions are erased, and I feel like I am finally doing what is best for my future plans. I may not know exactly what God has planned for me after SMC, but one thing is for sure, 'I pray that when I die, all of Hell will throw a party to celebrate the fact that I am no longer in the fight.'--C.T. Studd Let's just say I'll be working hard..."
	Amanda Richer: Class of 2004 (Religious Studies major) "Well, I planned on majoring in psychology and minoring in RLST because I want to be a youth minister, and I thought that RLST would give me a great background for that position. However, after taking intro to RLST with Dr. Martin, I found myself being challenged and much more interested in that course than in my psych-related class. Obviously, I was being directed towards a RLST major instead of a psych major because I would rather be challenged in something I find to be intriguing than to have something come easily to me that I find to be not quite as interesting. I hope that my future RLST courses continue to intrigue and challenge me, and I pray that, as a RLST major, I can grow stronger in my faith so that I can be the best youth minister possible and touch the lives of many. Thanks."

(Heidi Wilberschied, Allie Higgins)

Allie Higgins: Class of 2003 (Religious Studies/Communication Studies double major) "I am majoring in Religious Studies because learning about theology and everything the major encompasses has become my passion. The search to know even the smallest slice of truth is a worthwhile quest. The impacts of religion and God on society in the past and now are immeasurable, to study them is to know more about yourself and the world we live in."

Heidi Wilberschied: Class of 2003 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "I've never been a conformist. I'm not satisfied walking with the flock. When people ask me what I study, I can only answer them with this seemingly vague, yet honest answer: truth. As important as such studies like biology, mathematics, and business are, I find that it is most beneficial for me to study the basics: philosophy and religion. I don't really care for dissecting pigs, I'm not concerned with the Pythagorean Theorem, and frankly I don't care whether the DOW is going up or down. I do care about God, and I especially care about what He thinks of me. I'm not studying Philosophy and Religion because I find them to be interesting, challenging, or intriguing (although I do find Philosophy and Religion to be all these things). I'm studying Philosophy and Religion because I know they're important."

(Alissa Blair, Margaret Zeh)

Alissa Blair: Class of 2002 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "The decision to become a Religious Studies major took me entirely by surprise. I had never taken any official RLST classes in high school, so when I came to Saint Mary's, theology within an academic setting was entirely new to me. I was really set on a different major, until, gradually, I felt like I was being called to RLST, instead. I think this transformation climaxed over the peroid of a week when a handful of coincidences (or as I call them, God-incidences) occured that all pointed to the RLST major. Then I just KNEW what I was going to major in. Since then, further interaction with other majors and the professors really confirmed my gut feeling. I felt so welcomed by the department and every one in it with their friendliness and a willingness to assist me in any way. My classes have been a positive challenge for my faith and reason, and the combination of course material, class discussion, and times for personal reflection have all added to my compentency and confidence of what I can contribute to the RLST department at Saint Mary's and beyond."

Margaret Zeh: Class of 2002 (Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies double major) "Why am I a RLST major is one of the best questions anyone could ask me because I am not quite sure myself. I came to Saint Mary's as a History major intending to get my certification and teach high school. Then I took my first theology and humanistic studies classes I was instantly hooked. However I, like many others thought I could not major in those subjects because I would never get a job. Then I went to Rome. I realized while I was there, that life skills could be taught in any subject, especially if you enjoy it. The experience and the religion classes that I had there have forever impacted my views on life and happiness as well as my major. I returned from Rome wanting to double major in Humanistic Studies and Religious Studies. I went to the department and explained my late decision and they welcomed me with open arms and a helpful staff. I feel like every class that I take here a Saint Mary's is a kairos. From the Introduction to Religious Studies to Biblical Theology to Thomas Aquinas the professors and topics are inspiring, seminars stimulating and lectures engaging. Do I ever think twice about being a RLST major? yes but every time I conclude with the reality that life is a faith journey more than anything else and what major better prepares you for it!"

(Back Row from left to right) Tina Kosinski, Jill Fenske, Anna Knapp, Mary Sweeney, Molly Kahn Melissa McClure;
(Front Row from left to right) Jennifer Spagnolo, Kathy Fech, Mary Coplen  
 
 

	Mary Coplen: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies major) "I have known since I was young that I wanted to teach. I spent 17 years teaching Religion at my small country parish in Michigan. During these years I realized that teaching Religion was what I wanted the most. I am hoping to accomplish a major in Education and Religious Studies. I have taken only two Religious Studies class and have found them to be challenging and enjoyable. The department is excellent and always willing to help. I am happy to be a part of Saint Mary's family."
	Kathy Fech: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "I knew since I was a sophomore in high school that I wanted to major in Religious Studies. I had received an enormous amount of inspiration and desire to study theology from my teachers, youth director and mother. However, I was not aware as to where this course of study would take me on my educational journey. My professors were incredibly helpful and constantly challenged me to incorporate material learned in my philosophy classes into the work I did for their courses. They have also assisted me in discerning my future: a career as a hospital chaplain. The Religious Studies Department has many outstanding professors who are incredibly knowledgeable. I always found them approachable and willing to assist students in any and every way possible. My fellow majors challenged me intellectually, both inside and outside the classroom and I enjoyed learning with them and from them. Overall, the Religious Studies Department is full of dynamic professors and students who are great to work with. Since I have graduated, the professors have still been available to offer me advice and assistance. Majoring in Religious Studies at Saint Mary's was an outstanding experience and I will benefit from my time there for the rest of my life. "I graduated from Saint Mary's College in 2001 with a degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies. After St. Mary's I spent 18 months in St. Louis doing volunteer work in a home for at-risk youth. It was a wonderful time for personal growth and giving something to the community of St. Louis. If anyone is looking to do volunteer work after college, I recommend checking out http://www.boyshopegirlshope.org/. In 2003, I moved back to Fort Wayne, Indiana where my family is from. I spent a year as a resident chaplain in Clinical Pastoral Education at Lutheran Hospital. My experiences there allowed me to use many of the skills I developed at Saint Mary's: the knowledge of scripture I gained from Dr. Weiss' class helped when selecting passages to share with sick/dying patients at the bedside, the theories I dealt with in my Catholic Social Thought, Theological Ethics, and some of my philosophy courses came in hand when I had family members coming to me asking about whether or not they should remove life support from a loved one, patients asking if it was 'suicidal' of them to discontinue treatment for terminal conditions and enter hospice, and many other challenging situations. There were also the more interesting moments of encountering patients who were (possibly) hallucinating from medication and thought they had seen Satan, demons, or angels. I spent a year on my hands and knees as Jesus did washing the feet of many people- some circumstances were easier to deal with than with others. If anyone is interested in hospital chaplaincy, I would recommend checking out www.acpe.edu or calling St. Joseph's Hospital in South Bend as they have a wonderful CPE program. "In the fall of 2004 I moved to Iowa after accepting a position at a Catholic parish out here. As a pastoral associate I am in charge of the high school youth group, the 20's-30's group, and assisting the pastor with hospital/homebound visitations. While here I will begin working on my Master's of Divinity so I can eventually become a certified chaplain. My long-term goals right now are to pay of my school loans from Saint Mary's and become a licensed chaplain in a children's hospital. If anyone is interested in hospital ministry or parish work and would like some advice or information, I would be glad to help. My prayers are with all of you and I'm so glad you have answered the call to become a Religious Studies Major. May your experiences be as enlightening, fun-filled, and blessed as mine were." FAVORITE THEOLOGICAL QUOTATION: 'If you picture time as a straight line along which we have to travel, then you must picture God as the whole page on which the line is drawn.' (C.S. Lewis)"
	Jill Fenske: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "In the early stages of my Religious Studies coursework, theology seemed to be the least-concrete of academic disciplines. However, after immersing myself in the content of my Introduction course in Religious Studies and a morality course in Ireland, I recognized that theology is the most-concrete of academic arguments. Theology is solidly correlated and relevant to life and can also be applied to other areas of study. The depth at which theological thinking occurs improves the student's overall cognitive skills. Theological study integrates writing and critical thinking into the subject matter, and also prompts subjective insights within the material. While theology is partitioned into intellectual and introspective areas, self-realizations occur within the subject matter. Apart from the intellectual thought and theories contained in theological study, dynamic learning about one's self transpires through the study of historical and ethical/moral spheres of theology. Theology, while assisting in personal awareness, also forms the foundation of my potential career in ethical study. The Religious Studies degree provides the groundwork for future study in ethics, as I intend to pursue law school as a vehicle to ethical analysis and research. Confident that my communication skills, particuarly writing and critical thinking, will be strengthened through theological study, I willingly engage in the Religious Studies Major at Saint Mary's College."
	Molly Kahn: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies double major) "Why I am a Religious Studies major is a question that I frequently receive. I never imagined myself as a student of theology, but I truly believe that my educcation at Saint Mary's College is enhanced and is fully realized through the Religious Studies major. My journey toward theology began as an entering freshman on the way to a Bachelor of Business Administration. I thoroughly enjoyed and felt intellectually challenged by my Introduction to Religious Studies class with Professor Kaminski in the fall of my freshman year. In truth, I enjoyed it much more than my business classes. My second Religious Studies core requirement, "Catholic Social Thought," changed my life. I embarked on a difficult journey from a business and Humanistic Studies double major to arrive at my destination and am now double majoring in Humanistic Studies and Religious Studies. In the first semester of my sophomore year, I discerned an incredible connection between the two programs. While I was forcing myself to do my accounting homework, I could not refrain from examining the 'coincidences' that I was experiencing with Religious Studies and Humanistic Studies. While studying medieval times for Humanistic Studies, I found myself fascinated and challenged by the role of religion and the Chruch in the lives of Abelard, Augustine, Heloise, Hildegard, Thomas Becket, and myself. Strangely, my education began to evolve and to enrich itself. The connections that I experience in my Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies education reinforce that I have made the correct decision in studying theolgoy. Also, as Mission Commissioner for 1999-2000 on Saint Mary's College Board of Governance, I will pursue achievement outside of the classroom as I work with the Center for Spirituality, SURV, Center for Mission, the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross, and fellow students to apply my theological understanding to the greater campus community. Yet, my most fundamental reason for studying theology lies in my personal need to explore and to question my own beliefs, values, and religion. Honestly, I do not believe that my education and my identity can be fully investigated and eventually realized without the guidance, opportunity, and intellectual and spiritual vigor of Religious Studies. After graduation, I plan to pursue graduate level studies, and I have alreay begun to research my post-graduate options. Law, ethics, and theology are my primary interests, and ultimately, I would like to practice law (perhaps Children's Law or Adoption Law) or teach on the collegiate level. I realize that my decision to study theology will only enhance my present and my future and afford me greater opportunity and understanding of my career and my own identity."
	Anna Knapp: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "I decided to be a Religious Studies major because when I took my first religion class here at St. Mary's, I became interested in studying religion. My first religion class was Intro to Religious Studies and I am now taking Images of Christ. The classes help you to understand and learn more about God, Jesus, and religion. The faculty in the Religious Studies department are very helpful if you ever have a question about anything. The people who are Religious Studies majors are friendly and are willing to help in the best way possible."
	Tina Kosinski: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies major) "I decided to major in Religious Studies because I want to graduate college having learned more than job skills. It is true that I have learned valuable critical thinking and analytical skills through this major. I have also greatly enhanced my reading and writing proficiency. But for me, the real value of majoring in Religious Studies has been the experience of renewing the faith I thought I'd forgotten. The Religious Studies classes I have taken here have had such a tremendous impact on me and my life. I feel as though I have taken a journey and even if I wanted to return, I could not."
	Melissa McClure: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/Communications double major) "The primary reason I am a Religious Studies major is that I believe it is the ultimate science and the most important subject in our lives. Everything comes from God and goes back to God. This reminds me of our great religious studies t-shirts that say on the back, 'God made it all... we study it all.' Everything we learn leads us to know God better because we learn about God through God's effects. Every subject, every major is very important. Religious Studies helps us to recognize this supreme importance in learning and why we learn. These courses give students a foundation and keys to opening the locks of much theological insight. Archeological evidence supports that humans have had knowledge of God since the first people. I find it fascinating and rewarding to study what has always been and what will always be a facet of human life, religion. Former Saint Mary's College President, Sister Madeleva, after whom our main academic building is named, founded the School of Sacred Theology, the first educational institution in the world to offer a Doctoral program in Theology for women. It is an exciting time and place to major in Religious Studies. Choosing to be a student of theology is the best decision I have made in college. It is truly an enriching way to live. I am inspired by so many of the women theologians today and those who have passed such as Sister Madeleva. The desire to know God and to learn about God's immense love has opened up the world to me in a wonderful, blessed way. I thank God every day for the opportunity to study theology at Saint Mary's College."
	Jennifer Spagnolo: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies major) "I am majoring in Religious Studies because I believe theology will provide us with a powerful tool to use to understand the world in which we live. I think that theology will answer many of life's questions. As individuals, theology will lead us to understand God's will. This faith will allow us peace of mind and the freedom to make decisions based on what we hold to be good and true. For as far back as I can remember, I have promised God that I will 'help' him in some way. For all that God gives to us, I believe that I should try to help God make the world a happier place. The possibilities for this seem endless; therefore, I pray that God will lead the way. While reflecting a couple of days after I made the decision to major in Religious Studies, my heart filled with warmth. I believe that this decision is part of the answer to my prayers."
	Mary Sweeney Gates: Class of 2001 (Religious Studies/English Literature double major) "Before I even decided to attend Saint Mary's College, I knew I wanted to major in religion. I am a Secondary Education minor, and plan to teach high school theology and be involved in youth ministry. I am convinced that the Religious Studies Department at Saint Mary's has already and will continue to prepare me for the future. Two influential classes I have taken in Religious Studies are "Catholic Social Thought" and "Theological Ethics." Both of these courses have challenged me to further discover my own faith. The Religious Studies Department is constantly encouraging students to discover what role religion plays in their lives. I am looking foward to a continual study of faith and theology in the Saint Mary's Religious Studies Department."

(from left to right) Beth Lorenz, Molly Noem
 
 

Beth Lorenz: Class of 2000 (Religious Studies/Music double major) "As a freshman, I came to Saint Mary's firmly convinced that music would not only be my major, but would be my life after graduation. The summer following freshman year, the realization struck me that I was not pursuing something that would fulfill my life. It was also without a doubt that I then decided to become a major in the religious studies department. The major seems almost too good to be true. Here I have a place studying subjects that will truly increase my own life of faith; my very own relationship with God. As a sophomore I spent the spring semester abroad in Jerusalem (through Notre Dame), and that experience, as well, has broadened my spirituality especially in the Bible come alive. I encourage all to take advantage of that awesome opportunity! Returning as a junior, I am now appreciating the academic life at Saint Mary's in a new way, with small, focused classes that encourage me to participate in discussion as I have never before. The religious studies faculty are wonderful in facilitating discussion in their classes, and they are all genuinely concerned for each of their students. Another advantage of the small classes is the opportunity to spend time with other religious studies majors, all of whom are great fun to get to know! After leaving Saint Mary's, I would like to pursue divinity school in preparation for some sort of ministry (although in all honesty, these plans may very well change). A number of years of service, such as Jesuit Volunteer Communities, etc., are also a possibility. Whatever my plans end up being, they will most likely involve incorporating my faith into action with my hands!"

Molly Noem: Class of 2000 (Religious Studies/Communications double major) "As a senior just coming into the RLST major, my aim is to continue my religious studies in a way that will complement my communications studies. I am more specifically interested in the area of service work abroad, which seems to be a good mix of the two courses of study. My communications work as well as my past year in Ireland has helped me in beginning to understand other cultures and how we all effect one another, and can learn from each other. Being able to apply knowledge from the religious studies department to this will strengthen my ability to work in service of others in new cultures, and learn from them."

(from left to right) Colleen Murphy, Sr. Kolpona Costa, Holly Arends, Cindy Meyer, Liz Wisniewski, Dorothy Gentile  
 
 

	Holly Arends: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/Philosophy double major) "Honestly, I don't think I really chose the major. I guess I did on a level. I declared it and what not, but the actual choosing of the major was so haphazard that it surely wasn't me. I was going to major in architecture. Math was my forte. Religion was always very important to me, and I enjoyed reading quite a bit in the field, but I never really thought of a career in religion. At that point I think I thought I had to 'be a nun or something,' an assumption I have read as a response more than once when I disclose my major. It was freshman year that I figured out that philosophy and religion are math with words. I also figured out that studying religion did not require a habit or a vow of eternal celibacy (which is enough to send any 18 year old into sheer panic). After I figured this out I thought it best and easiest to study what I was already reading anyway. As I moved along the program my initial decision to drop architecture and study religion has been confirmed as the correct decision. I love religion, and the more I study it, the more it becomes math with meaning. I loved the method of math, but found it terribly boring when I ended up ith figures which really meant nothing to me. In religion I can use the same method, but when I am done I have something interesting."
	Sr. Kolpona Costa, C.S.C.: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/Economics double major) "Greetings to you all! I am grateful for the opportunity to share some of my insight about Religious Studies with you. My name is Kolpona Costa. I am a Holy Cross sister, and I am from Bangledesh. I am a third year student at Saint Mary's College. Before I came to Saint Mary's, I never thought that I would major in Religious Studies, but after taking two classes, "Catholic Faith and Life" and "Biblical Foundations," I chose a Religious Studies major. These two classes helped me to understand more deeply about Catholic faith and life, the Church, society and to gain knowledge about the Bible. Then I took "World Religions" and "Theologies of Love." The "World Religions" class has totally changed my attitude toward other religions: Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism. I came to respect other religions and appreciate them. The "Theologies of Love" class helped me to experience and understand God's genuine love for me. The classes I have taken have helped me to open my mind and to see and seek the truth in life. Moreover, they help me to know myself, as well as God, better. My future plan is to go back to Bangladesh and share this knowledge and experience with people in the Church as well as out of the Church. Bangladesh is a Muslim country and about 87% of the people are Muslim. To work in this country, I really need to understand them and need to know my religion well. I believe that this major will help me with that. From my experience as a Religious Studies major, I came to realize that Religious Studies does not only prepare one for the future career, but also helps one to know God, oneself, and to seek the truth in life which one can treasure in his or her life and share with others."
	Dorothy Gentile: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/Education double major) "I felt drawn to a Religious Studies major. I am also an Education major but I feel that by double majoring, Religious Studies will make me a better rounded teacher and person. While studing Religious Studies, I have been exposed to the background of my faith as well as other religions. I have learned about Women of the Church, Women's Sexuality and how it is defined, Saint Thomas Aquinas (interesting man) and Catholic Social Thought. All of these classes have broadened my understanding of who I am. The classes are small and very personal. My mother visited me and attended a RLST class and she was impressed at the teacher's openness. I had originally planned on just being an Education major but the more RLST classes I take, the more I am inclined to go to graduate school in Theology. It has helped to shape my life spiritually and not just religiously. The community of teachers and RLST majors is tight and everyone knows each other well. It is quite a family to belong to! If you are feeling that you might be interested in a Religious Studies major here or anywhere--DEFINITELY check it out. It could change your life, for the better."
	Cindy Meyer: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/Math double major) "I was attracted to the major because I really enjoyed my first core course. I know I made the right decision with a Religious Studies major because I am enjoying every aspect of it. The department is wonderful and the professors are always excited about their courses and are always willing to help. The courses I have taken have all been really interesting and I continually am able to apply what I am studying with daily life. The courses are challenging, though, and require a lot of reading and papers. I have a double major with math and find that my religion courses are a wonderful addition to my math background and help to make me a more well-rounded person. I hope to use my major to eventually go on graduate school and study Ethics."
	Colleen Murphy: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/Psychology double major) "I was initially attracted to the challenge of the major. The professors push all the students to think and support their beliefs and ideas with strong evidence as to why they feel the way they do. The classes are small and comfortable and create an atmosphere that allows for easy discussion. The professors encourage the students to not only learn but to use an active thought process to sort through difficult theological questions. The students and the professors work to accept and welcome everyone interested in wrestling with theology. Everyone is happy to have you involved in the department. It's an exciting learning and social environment. As far as my plans for religion in the future, I have been considering graduate school in religion, psychology, or social work. I have no idea which one I will choose but I feel that with both the psychology and religion major, I have many options."
	Liz Wisniewski: Class of 1999 (Religious Studies/English Literature double major) "I have always held my Catholic faith very close to me, but often I found myself walking around with a list of unanswered questions about what it was I believed. The professors I have had here at Saint Mary's College have helped me to answer a number of those questions by helping me to explore what lies within the meaning of the words within the Bible and by showing me that the rituals we perform are more than just mere actions. I am graduating in May, 1999 in both Religious Studies and English Literature with a minor in secondary education. I hope to then obtain a job teaching either English or religion in one of the local Catholic high schools. If I do end up teaching English, I know that religion will definitely be incorporated into everything that I teach."

(from left to right) Delilah Welch, Sr. Maggie Nimo, Kelli Harrison, Eileen Nieli  
 
 

Delilah Welch: Class of 1998 (Religious Studies/English Literature double major)

• "My name is Delilah Welch and I am a double major in Religious Studies and English Literature. I must admit (and Lord I hope the English Department doesn't see this) that a major in Religious Studies has been the most difficult AND rewarding path I ever could have taken. As a prospective student, you may be wondering what the Religious Studies faculty here is like. Well, no, they are not all nuns and priests (far from it if you ask me!). But they ARE all first class instructors and VERY approachable. My advisor, Professor Joe Incandela was the first one to get me hooked on Religious Studies. I took an intro class with him in which we did everything from reading C.S. Lewis' MERE CHRISTIANITY to watching the movie LEAP OF FAITH (starring Steve Martin). After Intro class I was hungry for more so I took Catholic Social Thought (also with Professor Incandela). In there we examined values and teachings of the Catholic Church on current issues such as birth control, abortion, and euthanasia. Well, after that class I was hooked. I became a Religious Studies major. Some other classes I have had in Religious Studies are Religion and Psychology, Christianity and World Religions, and Faith Meets Philosophy (so far that one has been my favorite). Currently I am enrolled in Theologies of Love, Women as Church, and Biblical Theology. I am often astounded by the brilliance of my Professors. Between the lot of them I don't think there is anything they don't know about theology (oh sure they'll deny it but that's just them being modest!). The Religious Studies majors are a great bunch of people too. We are one of the few majors on this campus that have a VERY strong comraderie. We are liberals, conservatives, feminists,and traditionalists; but above all, we are women. We are strong women who support one another in our academic AND social lives. If you are interested in majoring in Religious Studies or would just like to know a little more about Saint Mary's College I would urge you to email me or ANY of the other people on this homepage. Thank you."

• E-mail Delilah Welch

Sr. Margaret Mary Nimo, C.S.C.: Class of 1998 (Religious Studies major)

• "Religious studies classes to me are a source of strength for my spiritual journey. They have given me more insights into why certain things in the Catholic church are the way they are. I have found clarifications on some of my confused ideas. I might use my major in my ministry with women's groups in the church and with the youth that I will minister to. Religious Studies gives me the right focus in life, i.e., to have a much broader perspective on a lot of issues in society. It touches the core of my being as a person and also gives me some understanding of other people."

• E-mail Sr. Margaret Mary

Kelli Harrison: Class of 1998 (Religious Studies major)

• "I feel very positive about the RLST major at SMC. The students and professors are intelligent, inquisitive, and of the highest quality. I like the fact that the department is not huge and impersonal. As an RLST major, I feel like I have had the opportunity to get to know the profs. and the other students within the major and to truly form community within the department. This opportunity has been a great asset and blessing intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually."

• E-mail Kelli Harrison

Eileen Nieli: Class of 1998 (Religious Studies major)

• "I feel that the department has not only educated me in the academic area of theology but also in my own personal spiritual development. I saw a glimpse of that my freshman year and was very eager to learn more. And so, here you have me as a major. I think that our faculty have such potential for producing mature women in a field that has not given much time to women in the past."

• E-mail Eileen Nieli

Emily Haire: Class of 1997 (Religious Studies /Sociology double major)

• "My curiosity lies in the realm of the sociological; my passion lies in the realm of the theological. It all began with my introductory (mandatory) course in religious studies with Prof. Kaminski, first semester of my college life. That was the first time I urgently wanted to participate, to agonize, to celebrate God in the classroom. My professor demanded much from her hesitant first-years, intimidating and encourageing us all to engage the tough questions of God in the world and in our lives. I literally fell in love with the dialogue that occurs in the religious studies classroom. The major provided an atmosphere in which I grew as a competent student, a well-rounded individual, a dedicated writer, and good friend to my colleagues. I will go on in my studies, in the area of the sociology of religion."

• E-mail Emily Haire

Carol Jones: Class of 1997 (Religious Studies /Communications double major)

• "In reflecting back on my four years at Saint Mary's, it is with fond memory that I recall my experiences as a Religious Studies major. Upon entering college, I had just finished 12 years of a Catholic education and wasn't sure how much I wanted religion or spirituality to be integral in my life. It wasn't even until my sophomore year that I finally decided to major in Religious Studies. I had just taken a class called "Catholic Social Thought" and though challenging, it was full of pertinent questions to my adult religious life. What has been the best part of my experience as a Religious Studies major, though, is probably Saint Mary's ability to teach me how to integrate my experience as a woman and my experience as a Catholic. While I believe this type of integration to still be a struggle, I know that because of my work at Saint Mary's that I am better prepared for that struggle, having been provided with the valuable skills of prayer, study, reflection, and discernment. Upon graduation, it is with great pride that I call myself a Religious Studies major and a student of Saint Mary's College."

• E-mail Carol Jones

Janet Kelley: Class of 1997 (Religious Studies /Humanistic Studies double major)

• "It is difficult to write about my experience and evaluation of the Religious Studies major while still immersed in it. I will be better able to articulate what it has meant to me after time and distance provide insight. Nonetheless, I will attempt to offer a glimpse into RLST. If my rhetoric seems forced,and it does to me, it is because I find it challenging to capture the meaning of meaningful things in conventional language. I decided to major in Religious Studies while studying on the Saint Mary's Rome program. In the shadow of St. Peter's dome I came to understand my need to more fully understand my participation in the Catholic Church. My friends, and various persons I met in Rome, sparked an enthusiasm for theology. My world had expanded when I chose to embrace a foreign culture. My universe would explode as I delved into courses in Religious Studies. Questions about God seek answers, but often leave you with more questions than you knew were held within you. A student of religion has the opportunity to face questions and confront issues most do not have the luxury to explore. My study in the department has challenged me to strengthen my own convictions in light of the wisdom of the Catholic church. As a critical minded Catholic, I feel I take from this major intellectual excitement about theology, a life time commitment to the issues of the church, and a profound respect for the beauty of my fellow students and educators. As a double major in Humanistic Studies and Relgious Studies, my experience in Saint Mary's courses has never limited learning to the classroom. Some of the most insightful and lasting lessons are taught over coffee or late at night in the dorms by my peers. You are surrounded by vibrant women at Saint Mary's, who are ready to let you sound off about the role of women in the church or medieval monastic spirituality. One of the inevitable questions I am asked each time I return home for a break, or even at parties of all places, follows after I explain that Saint Mary's is an all women's Catholic liberal arts college where I study Religion. It usually goes something like: "So, are you going to be a nun or what?" Recently I just started saying yes, mostly for shock affect. Truth be known, time at SMC has prompted me to explore my vocation. I have even joked with Sister Maggie (whose comments are listed here) to sign me up before it's too late! However, I am not quite ready to get myself to a nunnery, nor is the nunnery ready for me. So what will I do with my studies? Just about anything I want to do! At this point, I plan to do service next year and then pursue graduate studies."

• E-mail Janet Kelley

Karen Murphy: Class of 1997 (Religious Studies/Humanistic Studies double major)

• "I recieved a top notch education through the RLST department. I learned not only about religious studies, but about reading and thinking critically, and examining my thoughts on any position. I have had help with my writing and my study habits, along with recieving a challenge to never stop learning. It has been a great four years and I plan to continue my education, and that can, in some way be attributed to the major."

• E-mail Karen Murphy

Jennifer Mathile Prikkel: Class of 1995

• "I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to attend Saint Mary's College, but I feel Blessed to have been a RLST major. I remember the day I decided to declare RLST as my major. My father told me when I went off to college to: 'Do what you love. Don't do anything for money. For if you do what you love you will find a way to make money and enjoy life while doing it.' Because of those wise and liberating words I chose to be an RLST major and have been forever thankful for what I received from my experience in that major. Now, 10 years after graduation when I get a quiet moment and reflect upon my days at Saint Mary's I am so proud of my accomplishment as a RLST student. I say with pride that I have my BA in RLST because I know I was taught and challenged by some of the most intelligent people I have ever met (and I actually graduated). I also recognize the level of difficulty a RLST major must endure to win respect and recognition from her peers and professors. This is something I often look back upon and draw strength from in times of doubt. For in my mind a RLST major is not just a woman who studies 'religion.' She is a student of many disciplines. She is a historian, a writer, a philosopher, an anthropologist and the list goes on. I know the good Lord was guiding me when I became a RLST major. It has served me well as I continue my life's journey as a wife, a mother of three, a teacher of the Roman Catholic faith, a friend, a philanthropist and a businesswoman. I couldn't have asked for anything more from my college education. It has made me the woman I am today and I am eternally grateful for that."

• E-mail Jennifer Mathile Prikkel

Kate Sullivan: Class of 1995

• "The theology courses I took during my years at Saint Mary's were not only enjoyable, challenging, and fulfilling at the time I took them, but I have also enjoyed sharing this knowledge with my present students at the high school level. Religious studies courses offer not only a look at theological tradition and history, but also a serious consideration of where the individual fits into that sacred landscape. Thus, a major in religious studies provides what I would identify as the three most important areas of life--heritage and history, self examination, and actualization of knowledge for the benefit of others and the reduction of injustice in the world."

Therese Johnson Borchard: Class of 1993

• "My Religious Studies Major has been extremely helpful to me in my future studies, in my career, and in my personal life. I am, first, appreciative of the well-rounded subjects I studied as part of the program at Saint Marys, as they prepared me well for graduate studies in theology at the University of Notre Dame. Second, all of the research and writing that is required as part of the major helped me develop invaluable skills for my first position as an editor of a magazine, and for my present job as a writer and marketing/product-development consultant for a couple of religious publishers. My course work at Saint Marys directly contributed to all of my present responsibilities: researching the religious book market, generating ideas for publications, acquiring authors for books, and compiling and writing material. What I am doing right now has everything to do with my major! Currently, I am working on a compilation of women's writings, a Lenten companion. I am glad I kept all of my books from Saint Mary's because I am using excerpts from some of them, especially the women we read in Phyllis Kaminski's "Women and Religion" course. After I got my Masters at Notre Dame (in Theology), I worked for U.S. Catholic magazine for awhile, and then for Roman, Inc. as Product Development Coordinator for Inspirational Brands (yes, I hate to admit it, the angel company). Anyway, I got to publish my first book with them: Visions of Our Lady. I then started freelance writing. I did a high-school mini-course with Ave Maria Press (part of a Developing Faith series) on the subject of Addiction and Recovery. As I continued to freelance, I realized that I may be better at coming up with ideas for books, rather than writing them myself. So, presently I am doing both for Crossroad. I also work with Liguori Publications (on ideas for devotional pamphlets), Saint Mary's Press (in Winona, Minnesota), and Abbey Press (I've done a couple of CareNotes and HopeNotes--the ones that are in the back of church and in hospitals). So, as you can see, my major has been extremely helpful in my career. Finally, on a personal level, my studies have helped me to ask big questions, think through important decisions, and understand better the difficulties that life presents."

• E-mail Therese Johnson Borchard

Krista Schlyer: Class of 1993

• "After graduating from St. Mary's in Religious Studies, I spent a year in the South Pacific, teaching school in American Samoa. I taught high school girls from sophomore to senior year, and from world religions to geometry to world history. My degree from St. Mary's helped me tremendously during that time teaching, but at the end of the year I decided I had more to learn before I felt I was ready to teach. So I went back to school, first for East Asian Studies, and then after being thwarted by a bad auto accident, for Journalism. I received my Masters in Journalism from the University of Arizona in May, and am now working for a newspaper in Cottonwood, AZ (that is near Sedona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon). I love the job, it is different absolutely every day I go in. I do photography, government reporting, schools reporting, and arts and environment features. Eventually I would like to try religion reporting, but will probably move to a larger paper before I can really concentrate in any one area. Many newspapers are now realizing that reporting on religious groups, studies, and social action is an important community service that has been sorely overlooked for many years. I think there will be a lot of opportunity in religion reporting in the future."

• E-mail Krista Schlyer

Sr. Agatha Mwangi, S.M.I.: Class of 1989

• "Since my return [to Kenya], I have been working as General Secretary of my Congregation, except for the Academic Year 1994-1995, when I attended a course on Spiritual Formation and received a Diploma in it at Catholic University of Eastern Africa. While working as General Secretary, I have been teaching our postulants twice a week the course on Human Development. Since 1992, I have often given retreats and recollections to different groups of people--youth, sisters, seminarians, and women groups. This ministry is very challenging in our church today. My Religious Studies major gave me a wider horizon of faith and my course with Dr. Martin ("World Religions") helped me in appreciating other people's differences and especially in holding my faith as a precious gift. It is through my major that I got a chance of a wider reading which interested me so much on spirituality. Another course with Dr. Egan on Carmelite spirituality has been and was very helpful even in my personal spiritual growth. From Scripture courses with Dr. Weiss, I became a Bible lover. If I would come to Saint Mary's again for studies, I must say that I can not choose another major except Religious Studies. I am always very grateful to have had that chance; though, when I left Kenya for the United States, I had a different major in mind. I have nothing to regret about having Religious Studies as my major, but a lot to appreciate."

Jennifer Philips: Class of 1988

• "Almost all of my work has centered around people with disabilities. I currently work at our local YMCA with school children and people with disabilities teaching fitness."

• E-mail Jennifer Philips

Jackie B. Bohrer: Class of 1986

• "My Religious Studies major gave me skills to teach religion, gave me strength and courage as a lay Catholic and gave me skills to preach/preside in a lay-led Catholic community in Portland.

• E-mail Jackie B. Bohrer

Susan Simonaitis: Class of 1985 (Religious Studies/Psychology double major)--currently Assistant Professor of Theology at Fordham University

• "Most students do not choose to major in religious studies at Saint Mary's. In fact, most students (along with their parents and my parents) can't imagine what a person could do with a religious studies major (except, of course, become a nun).

  "But it has been my experience and observation that most Saint Mary's women do encounter a potent invitation to explore their faith, to question what it means to be a Catholic woman in the 20th century.

  "Certainly, invitations cay be refused. I have found that my involvement in the vital questions of the Catholic Church has been based on the choice to confront gray, sticky, uncomfortable areas of my experience. I'm a woman with a body which has been sexually mature for years--how do I respond to questions of intimacy, sexual identity, and sexual activity? I feel a desire to help people, but can my desire to please others taint my ability to love, care, and help others and myself? I long to be independent, but I am frightened of my incompetencies that I hide from myself and others. How on earth can I love when I experience all that is spiteful, jealous, and lazy within me? Poor people don't live as I do; I'm ignorant of so many ways of life. I'm confronted again and again with my constant choice, my consistent need to muster up courage enough to plunge into the pain of reflection.

  "Well, the plunge is dramatic, but the process is slow and appears in many ways to be ordinary. My academic courses at the College offer insight into my reflection--I read great thinkers of the past and present; my mind becomes familiar with styles, techniques, tools of thought; I critically explore my special interest in the personal and spiritual growth of women. Adults on campus create forums of discussion; I find that I am not the only person concerned about gray, sticky areas. I begin to incorporate into my vocabulary the word 'struggle.' Subtle changes, genuine friendships, and growing honesty pierce the ordinary appearance of my college years. I am changing, growing.

  "The campus seems to change as often for me as do the seasons; I am within an area of pain, a womb of nurturing, a library of knowledge, a banquet of celebration. A community surrounds me, teaching me to think critically and fairly, encouraging me to reflect sensitively and honestly, demanding that I focus and develop what choices I make. But I find I cannot merely add new ideas to my repertoire of insights; I become aware that some ideas, choices, and actions necessitate the transformation of past ideas, choices and actions. I cannot pretend that my choice to be honest will selectivley reveal positive, pleasing qualities. If I choose to be honest, I unearth the fear which separates me from people who are different from me. I choose to sacrifice a preferred appearance of confident control as part of my choice to be honest, to acknowledge the reality of my experience.

  "Fortunately, I live within the transformation of the Catholic Church, a transformation of preferred appearance to genuine witness. Thus, my experience at Saint Mary's is a preparation for what I can encounter in the larger community of the world around me. My new confidence is based in my ability to respond sensitively, knowledgeably and wisely."

• E-mail Prof. Susan Simonaitis

Terri Bolotin-Wilson: Class of 1982--currently a Supervisor in Clinical Pastoral Education for Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC

• E-mail Terri Bolotin-Wilson

Mary Dumm: Class of 1982--currently a pastoral associate in the Detroit area

• "I graduated from Saint Mary's in 1982. The next phase of my life was as a teacher of religion in two different Catholic High Schools. One was in the city of Detroit proper, the other in a near suburb. I love teaching, a wonderful surprise really. These eleven years were filled with challenge and growth. During this time I began graduate studies on a part time basis at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. In 1993 I graduated with a MA in Theology.

  "After graduation I began the career I had longed for even in my days at SMC. I became a Pastoral Associate. In the Archdiocese of Detroit this basically translates to an assistant pastor. I am now in my third parish. Saint Blase, where I presently minister, is rather large at approximately 2700 families. This obviously keeps me busy since there is only one priest assigned here. Of course there is also diocesan committee work which gives me a larger vision of the Church.

  "While in my first parish assignment, I began teaching for Siena Heights University in their Program in Theological Studies for the Diocese of Lansing. My students are candidates for either lay ministry or the permanent diaconate. In addition, I have also taught at Sacred Heart Seminary, the University of Detroit Mercy and Saints Cyril and Methodius Seminary. This past fall I was blessed to be one of the speakers at the convention of the National Conference of Catholic Women my topic being Audacious Women of the Bible.

  "Finally, at present I am completing my Doctorate of Ministry degree at the Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit. Graduation looms ahead on June 3rd, so I need all the prayer I can get. My defense will be sometime in Lent.

  "Saint Mary's certainly prepared me for both my academic and ministerial worlds. Thank you for formation that was challenging, inspiring and wholistic."

• E-mail Mary Dumm

Patricia A. King: Class of 1973--an attorney, physician assistant, and artist

• "I studied theology during the tumultuous time of the planned merger of SMC and the University of Notre Dame, so many of my courses were taken at Notre Dame. There was a wonderful community among the majors at both institutions. We shared not only classes but also liturgies and a wide range of interests beyond the traditional boundaries of theology.

  "Since graduation, I have traveled far beyond my anticipated work as a religion teacher. I have become an attorney and a physician assistant. I have practiced law and medicine. What links my studies and work in these three disciplines--theology, law, and medicine--is their shared purpose of helping individuals and communities to address the question of meaning. While each has its own language and assumptions, each discipline has at its center a fundamental concern with the importance of how lives are lived individually and in community.

  "I believe what drew me to become a Religious Studies major is my desire to live my life fully, intentionally, and conscious of the presence of God in all creation.

  "Presently I am working as a stained glass artist. One of my stepping-stones was given to the college in 2003 in memory of my mother and as a 30th reunion gift from the Class of 1973."

• E-mail Patricia King