Walk into almost any room at Neumann University, and you will most definitely notice something religious. A crucifix on the wall, or a reference to Saint Francis. It’s a part of a daily routine. That’s because Neumann is a Catholic university rooted in Franciscan values.
But not every student on campus is Catholic, some come from different faith background, and some don’t practice any faith at all. For students at Neumann can mean navigating your beliefs, that doesn’t always mean feeling excluded, but it can mean feeling different. A few non-Catholic students and a few Catholic students active in the church at Neumann participated in interviews.
Navigating Non-Religion at a Catholic University
To understand a little better what it is like being non-religious student at a Catholic University, I spoke with Ashley Butts, a senior at Neumann University who doesn’t practice any religion. “I usually try to opt out of religious activities at Neumann,” said Ashley butts, a senior who doesn’t practice any religion, “While I understand it’s important to uphold Neumann’s values, I believe that can be done in different ways without making religious activities mandatory.” Ashley added that religious events should still be offered, but they should be optional for students who might feel uncomfortable or out of place.
“There wasn’t much focus on religion in my family growing up,” said Butts. “My parents went to church a little when they were kids, but they weren’t very religious, so I didn’t really practice any religion.” This background shaped Ashley’s views on religion today. Attending Neumann University, she says she hasn’t changed her personal beliefs or religious practice. “I still don’t practice any religion, “but I do enjoy learning about different cultures and religions, I’ve always respected people weather they practice or not.” For Ashely, the experience has been more about understanding and respect than about adopting beliefs.
Finding Faith Outside the Classroom at Neumann University
“Being at a Catholic school has really strengthen my faith and made me more confident in what I believe,” said Brighid Brady, a sophomore at Neumann University. “Coming from a public school where religion wasn’t taught, it’s been different to be place where faith is part of the of the curriculum. Having Mass available every day and being surrounded by students and faculty with similar values-even if they aren’t Catholic-has helped me grow a lot. I’ve also started reading and journaling in my Bible, something I probably wouldn’t have done without the community here.”
Nora Brady, a sophomore at Neumann University, shared a similar experience. “Since coming to Neumann, my faith has grown so much,” she said. “I attend Mass on campus every week and feel supported by a community that encourages me to strengthen my faith. Having sisters on campus who I can talk to at any time has been a bug help. I also read my Bible and journal every night, learning new lesson to apply to my life. The welcoming culture of campus ministry has really opened door for me.”
Even though Brighid and Nora aren’t actively involved in campus ministry, they both regularly attend Mass and value the support they both find there.
Faith, Growth, and Understanding
At a Catholic university like Neumann, faith can come in many different forms. For students like Brighid and Nora, it’s a chance to grow spiritually and build connections through tradition and community. For some people like Ashley, it is a chance to learn more about religion and in a respectful way, without having an impact on your own personal beliefs. Whether a student is very religious, or non-religious, Neumann provides a space where all opinions and values are understood and respected.
