Gannon, Erie Campus- Gannon University is home to over 2,000 students at any given time of year. Within this student body, a variety of different people exist. We are united though our pursuit of education at Gannon University. However, our differences may lie in our ages, career choices, races, faiths, or a plethora of other things. In every aspect that we are different, there is one where we are similar. In RoundTable, we explore the similarities and differences in the thoughts and opinions of Gannon students.
Religion is inherent to human experience. As far back as archeologists and researchers can look, signs of rituals and spiritual practices have been found. Ideas about religion have changed vastly over time, and even from region to region. But ideas about religion, such as if there is a God or what happens after death, have been a part of every society.
Having doubts about religion is an experience that a large part of the population can relate to. Religious people and atheists alike may have doubts about God truly existing, or even what religious is the right one to follow.
A study from Barna says that while 35% of Christians surveyed said they have never questioned or had doubts about their faith in God, 65% reported that they are either actively experiencing doubt, or have in the past. This study focuses on Christians, but this is a common experience for followers of any religion, and even atheists.
Religion, or the lack of it, can influence even the deepest part of a person’s life. While some have always found confidence in their faith, others find questions. Some find both.
This week, three students answered the question, “Have you ever questioned your religion?”
Freshman Diego Casillas, a double major in English and writing, says, “I’m not religious, but at some points, I have questioned if there something after death, and if there’s something above.”
Meanwhile, Kayley Wiles, a freshman nursing major says, “When I first started applying to colleges, I was an atheist. I grew up in the church, I was a Christian, but I was questioning it all.”
She continues to describe that the influences around her were affecting her beliefs. But, she says that recently, her ideas about religion have started to change. “I’ve been really trying to get more with God. I’ve been trying to get closer.”
While doubts are common, there are some who face them less than others. Betty Janet, a sophomore majoring in speech therapy, answers, “I’m a religious person, and I have never questioned my religion. I’m a believer, so I know there’s a God, because I’ve personally seen it in my life. I’m a very faithful person, and I’m a prayerful person. One of the things I love to do is praise, worship, praise. So, I’ve never questioned my faith, at all.”
Religious beliefs, or the lack thereof, are extremely personal to each person. Faiths and beliefs can range vastly from person to person, and many can find comfort in both the questions, and confidence, of others.
