Hello- I wonder how comfortable- or uncomfortable it might be to attend Villanova as a non-Catholic? Does it help to be another religion, especially Chritian, or does it not matter at all?
thank you
My daughter is a sophomore, and we are Episcopal. It hasn’t bothered her at all. She’s gone to church a couple of times with friends, but there certainly isn’t any pressure to do so. The required theology classes seem to focus more on social issues than religion per se.
My Son is a sophomore also. No pressure at all. As above poster said, there are required theology classes and they do seem to relate to social issues rather than religion. I have spoken to friends with children at other non religious affiliated universities and they also have required theology classes as part of their curriculum. So, I think most students at Villanova do not feel it’s a problem. Although, I do have friends who are not catholic who’s son didn’t apply because they couldn’t get past all the religious symbols (ie crosses) adorning all the buildings. I guess to each his own. It’s about finding the perfect fit for your student.
Agree with the above comments. My son is a freshman and part of the University Welcome speech by the President, included talk of diversity, how they welcome people of all backgrounds and faiths, embrace it, and learn from others. We are Methodist. My DS has not felt pressured nor has he gone to a church service since he has been there.
My 3rd is attending Villanova this fall. My other 2 attend Catholic Univerities in Chicago and Ohio. How comfortable you feel is based somewhat on your needs and expectations. In our experience, Catholic Universities tend to be liberal minded regarding social justice issues and provide and promote opportunities to develop volunteerism or activism in serving the marginalized, poor, and underserved. They also tend to be conservative regarding Catholic teaching and behavioral expectations but not in a way that students feel pressured to “conform”. An example is my daughter and friends started a living learning community to explore healthy dating relationships: topics would include sexual assult, emotional boundaries, communication and so forth. At one point she shared with me that a housemate wanted to offer free condoms to students attending speaker series. My daughter said she seriously doubted the University would go for (or fund) that. Not sure they asked but if it were Brown University, I’m sure she wouldnt have wondered.I would however encourage all students to attend a University mass at least once. I have found the preists are typically better homilists and can relate sctripture to life better that preits in typical parish settings. Just my 2 cents.