The gamecock. (Columbia, S.C.) 1908-2006, May 01, 2000, Discover Carolina, Page 56, Image 56

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Religious organizations strengthen bonds, faith by Phil Watson Journalism Sophomore Getting involved with religious organizations an be beireficial to new students. Not only do religious organizations lie Ip strength n the faith of students who we involved, but they Iso help students to meet people with similar in vests ;uid beliefs. Carolina has more than 27 religious organiza tions for students to join. Most major religious faiths are represented by USC’s many groups. Christian organizations are most prevalent on campus. There are Christian organizations for athletes, Chinese stu dents, pharmacy students and Greek students, just to name a few. From the Baptist Student Union to the Baha’i Club to the Muslim Student Association, there is something for everyone at Carolina. Students who become involved in religious organiza tions usually find that the groups help them to grow spiritually, and these students meet more people who have positive influences on their lives. Philosophy freshman Rod Scott is a member of the New man Club, a Catholic organization. He says being in the club has greatly attributed to his faith and growth. “For college students, there is a lot of tempta tion. With this, we sometimes don’t have the abili ty to handle what we are faced with every day,” Scott said. “As a part of the Newman Club, 1 have strength ened my ability to be wise. It has helped my reli gious life, and it has allowed me to grow morally, spiritually, and respectably.” Several of USC’s religious organizations have centers for activities. Most of these centers are lo cated on or near campus. The Baptist Student Union is located at 700 Pick ens Street. It holds several weekly activities to help students grow closer to God. Activities at the Baptist Student Union are open to everyone, not just Baptists. _____ The St. Thomas More Catholic Student Center is lo cated at 1610 Greene Street. It has weekly meetings and ac tivities to enrich the lives of USC students. The Partnership Among Lutherans and Methodists Cen ter is located at 728 Pickens Street. There are numerous ac tivities for students to partici pate in throughout the week at the PALM Center. All students are welcome, regardless of reli gious beliefs. Lutheran Campus Pastor Martin Jessiman said the PALM Campus Ministry is very beneficial to students. “PALM Campus Ministry is a place where stu dents can explore the Christian faith and life in an accepting community. College is a time when young people question many core values and beliefs. Ques tioners and doubters are welcome to take part in Campus Ministry.” Jessiman said. With most major religious organizations repre sented, USC has a religious organization for just about everyone. Students of all faiths can benefit from be ing a part of these helpful organizations. Photos By Sean Rayford College con be o confusing time.. For more information, contact: Baptist Student Union 799-3854 • bsuusc@compuserve.com \ PRESBASS^Sl \ Weekly Activities Sundays 10:30 & 5:45 Worship Mondays Mission Project Tuesdays 6:30 Dinner & Program Wednesdays Workout group Thursdays 6:30 Bible Study Fridays and Saturdays Fellowship and Service events set up by students COME SEE US ANYTIME!