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STUDENT WELCOME PACK TIMES | 2012
Student maintain faith on campus FSU campus is home to an array of religious groups SAMANTHA SCHAUM Staff Writer As a new student, it’s important to maintain some familiarity in one’s life in the midst of many other changes occurring. For students who practice or follow certain religions, Florida State University’s campus has various organizations to help incoming and current students continue following their faith after arriving to Tallahassee. Though there are more than 20 faith groups, churches and organizations, here is a rundown of four organizations with a major presence on campus. Hillel Foundation for Jewish Campus Life Hillel provides a home away from home to the nearly 4,000 Jewish students who attend Florida State University. Kosher meals are offered every Shabbat and on Jewish holidays, making it an ideal place to have dinner with friends who share the same Jewish culture and values. In such a large school, it may feel difficult to find a sense of community, but at Hillel, like-minded students come together as a family to embrace their Jewish heritage. “I first visited Hillel for a bagel brunch freshman year,” said FSU student Melissa Goldman. “It’s a great way to keep up with the Jewish traditions I learned at home.” Hillel provides a wide variety of opportunities to be involved in Jewish life. Because of the large Greek population within Hillel, it partners with AEPI, SDT and other Greek organizations. Members of Hillel can also participate in student government through several student organizations including ’Noles for Israel, the Maimonidies Society, Jewish Student Union, Jewish Art Student Association and others. FSU even offers a chance to study in Israel through their Study Abroad Program. The outlets for expressing one’s Jewish identity are boundless. Hillel encourages all expressions of Jewish life on campus and offers an enriched atmosphere where students can create the Jewish life they desire. 843 W. Pensacola St. Tallahassee, Florida, 32304 (850)-222-5454 The Wesley Foundation The Wesley Foundation is the United Methodist Campus Ministry for the students of Florida State, Tallahassee Community College and young adults in the Tallahassee community. Wesley is a place where students can bring the Lord into their everyday lives, deepen their relationship with the Lord and help them to understand Jesus Christ. A place for local community and international community, Wesley is dedicated to serving those and making a difference in the world. Wesley offers an array of opportunities to take part in Christian life on campus, including Sunday worship services where students can pray along to live Christian bands. “The music is awesome,” said Reverend Vance Rains. “You’ll find a lot of energy and a lot of enthusiasm. It’s probably a worship experience like you’ve never experienced before.” Wesley also holds community night dinners, prayers, retreats, missions and more. It is a place for prayer, worship, studying the Bible and celebrating life with Christ. Open virtually all day, everyday, students will find an open community full of love and support at the Wesley Foundation. 705 W. Jefferson Street Tallahassee, FL 32304
Photos by Zachary Goldstein/FSView
Top: Wesley Methodist Student Center. Above: Episcopal University Center at Ruge Hall. Right: The University Lutheran Church and Student Center.
Other members of the international council at FSU Alpha Omega—C5 Ambassadors for Christ (AFC) Anglican College Ministry Baptist Collegiate Ministry Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Christian Campus Fellowship The Episcopal University Center Every Nation Campus Ministries First Baptist Church Heritage House Student Fellowship Intervarsity Christian Fellowship Islamic Centers of Tallahassee The Navigators Campus Ministry Orthodox Christian Fellowship Pentecostal Student Union Presbyterian University Center (PCUSA) Reformed University Center (R.U.F.) Seminole Christian Life University Unitarian Universalists
(850) 222-0251 University Lutheran University Lutheran is a “Jesus Centered Community of Scripture, Faith, and Grace” located on the Florida State University campus. The organization is devoted to reaching out to college students, helping them to know Jesus, and providing a continuing path of discipleship. University Lutheran provides an environment where students can celebrate their
love of Christ with other students through prayer and worship services offered every Sunday and Wednesday. The Lutheran community’s teachings correspond with the Bible-based teachings of Martin Luther, and they are dedicated to spreading the love of the Triune God: the Father, the son and the Holy Spirit. Serving as the only Lutheran campus ministry at Florida State University, the church stands with
open arms, and welcomes all Lutherans, Christians and people to share the love of Christ. 925 W. Jefferson St. Tallahassee, FL 32304 (850) 224 6059 Catholic Student Union The Catholic Student Union is an organization dedicated to empowering students to advance the teachings of the Catholic Church through spiritual, educational and leadership opportunities. In addition to daily mass, CSU
offers many incredibly fun opportunities for students to be more involved with their faith. CSU retreats are beneficial ways to make friends and learn more about Catholic beliefs. Students can look forward to group prayer around the campfire, sports, games and lots of food. Service is also a large part of CSU. Service Trips are an amazing way for students to give back to the community through love and compassion. The or-
ganization has reached out and participated in service projects ranging from aiding the homeless, furthering community education, promoting environmental sustainability, contributing to disaster relief and many more. The organization is a place for students to embrace and foster their identity as Catholics and to reinforce the teachings of Christ throughout the Campus. St. Thomas More Student Center P.O. Box 2334, 32316 (850) 222-9630