Religious lecture series kicks off at UF

By: Olivia Wile
Twitter: o_wile
Email: wileo@findlay.edu

While enrolled at the University of Findlay, students are required to take either a religion or philosophy course. Among those offered include REL 101: Introduction to Religion. Not only do students in this course learn about the various religions of the world such as Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Daoism, Christianity, and Island, they also have the opportunity to attend the Religious Lecture Series.

This year, the first lecture was held on Tuesday, Oct. 10 in the Alumni Memorial Union (AMU) Multipurpose Room. The Series’ first speaker of the semester was Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences and International Ambassador for Pharmacy Education M. Chandra Sekar, Ph. D. The Theme of Dr. Sekar’s lecture was Hinduism.

Within his talk, Sekar tied in the five major concepts every Introduction to Religion student is studying in his or her class this semester. Religion Professor Dale Brougher PH.D. says that the Lecture Series gives students a chance to expand on what they learn in the classroom.

“[It’s] simply for the purpose of enabling students to have a broader experience than just the classroom,” Brougher stated.

Brougher explains that the Religion Lecture Series has been a part of the University of Findlay for at least 20 years. Each semester, the religion department brings in both outside speakers, and ones that are connected to UF. He says that this semester, all three of the speakers are apart of UF.

“They are an opportunity for students to hear from those who live out religions discussed in class,” Brougher said. “We really try to get experts, as in people who are living that faith.”

Current Introduction to Religion Ciara Burdd, a sophomore, was among those who attended Dr. Sekar’s lecture last night.

“The speaker gave a great insight on the in-depth view into the life of someone who practices Hinduism,” said Burdd. “It was truly interesting and I really liked how he left time at the end for us to ask questions.”
Although students were required to attend this first of three different lectures, Dr. Brougher says that learning about religions first-hand is beneficial for students.

“Last night, students got to hear how Hinduism is lived,” said Brougher. “It’s better than coming from a professor.”

The next two lectures are scheduled for Nov. 2 and Nov. 7 at 8 p.m. in Ritz Auditorium. For additional information about the Religious Studies Lecture Series contact Lee, Ph.D. at lee@findlay.edu.