Since its inception, UD, as a Catholic, Marianist institution, has been a university centered on Christ. This foundation, built upon religious and spiritual exploration, has recently expanded to those areas of Christianity outside of Catholicism. As part of campus ministry's mission to work 'towards an inclusive community which encourages and fosters the sharing of faith from many perspectives and traditions,' new religious activities are helping to bring the UD community closer.

The most visible of these are the various worship services offered on campus. These have been offered by campus minister Rev. J. Roland Bailey. The Protestant worship service offered on Sundays in Immaculate Conception Chapel and the bible study and spirituality services in both the Protestant and the African American traditions during the week are the best examples.

Always striving to become a more diverse university in all respects, UD's pledge and commitment to the faiths of this portion of the student body is commendable.

The university could just have easily not offered these services. But, instead they went out of there way in this particular instance to ensure that all felt welcome in this community.

Universities of the Christian faith need to become more inclusive and branching out within the faith is a good first step in the right direction. In the future, as these institutions become more religiously diverse, UD included, groups for students who practice the Jewish or Islamic faiths ought to be started.

It is only through religious harmony that a place can become truly great.

UD has started toward this harmony and should continue to do so in the years to come.