To better explore religion’s role in mental health and overall well-being, Missouri State University has created a new interdisciplinary Undergraduate Certificate in Mental Health and Spirituality. This 15-hour program began this fall. It will help students to gain an awareness of the effects of spiritual reflection and practices on mental health and self-understanding. Dr. … [Read more...] about How do religion and beliefs affect mental health?
If peace on Earth and goodwill toward men is the goal this holiday season, Missouri State University’s Dr. John Schmalzbauer believes it starts with displaying tolerance, acceptance and inclusion. That includes recognizing holidays and holy days from a variety of faiths and cultures, Schmalzbauer said. It also means understanding how diversity helped form many American … [Read more...] about Make room for all during the holidays
How did early American Protestants respond to disease and suffering? What role did religion play in their response to sickness? In her new book, “The Course of God’s Providence: Religion, Health, and the Body in Early America, author Dr. Pippa Koch explores the doctrine of providence – a belief in a divine plan for the world – and its manifestations in 18th century … [Read more...] about What’s the connection between religion and health?
To find out the role religion plays on American college campuses today, Missouri State University’s Dr. John Schmalzbauer and his team of co-researchers are exploring the landscape of campus ministries across the country. A three-year grant of more than $981,000 from Lilly Endowment Inc. has made this project possible. Despite COVID challenges, research work has begun and will … [Read more...] about What does campus religious life look like?
The last time Dr. John Schmalzbauer participated in a study of campus ministries was from 2004-2008, when he worked on a project directed by Dr. Betty DeBerg at the University of Northern Iowa. At that time, the Great Recession had not taken full effect, undergraduate students didn’t have access to widespread social media and religious “nones” didn’t outnumber evangelicals. But … [Read more...] about Campus ministry: What’s changed over the decade?