It’s widely known that public high schools are more divided than ever. Students tend to stick with those who are most similar to them, but for some, it’s challenging to find a place where they belong. Rooted: Bible Study is a group at the high school that has been making an effort to improve its inclusiveness and make all students feel welcome. Since Christianity was founded on the ideas of inclusion and diversity, it’s important that this group represents that.
Previously known as FCA, or Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Rooted is a group led by students who meet every Friday morning for Bible study. Typically, they split into small groups and read a chapter of the Bible together, then they discuss it. They also get a treat on their way out, such as a Pop-Tart or donut. Andrew Kapler, senior, is one of the student leaders of Rooted and has been a part of the club since his freshman year. He enjoys connecting with other students at meetings and learning about their different perspectives. He said, “You can read through the Bible on your own time, and of course, that’s fun, but getting other people’s opinions from different denominations, sometimes even non-Christians, and their outlook on what we read brings a whole new perspective to the group, and it’s just really cool to see how other people think and observe the world.” Throughout his years of being involved with the group, more discussions arose about changing the name.
Kapler and other student leaders began deliberating about how having “Christian Athletes” in the name of the group closed it off from a large number of students. They wanted people to know that everyone was welcome, no matter their religion or whether or not they were involved in athletics. For example, Fiona Dickey, junior, wasn’t in sports when she first joined. She said, “I think some people didn’t want to go because they thought it was just for athletes. When I first went, I wasn’t involved in anything.” Kapler had a similar experience a few years ago; he thought the primary focus of the group was on athletes, so he was hesitant to join simply because the name was uninviting. Rooted, however, sends a stronger message of connectedness between students.
No matter one’s denomination or religious background, all students are welcome at Rooted. The leaders aim to create a space for students to share their beliefs and grow together. Kapler said, “This club provides a place for me where I feel like I belong with everybody else, and it’s an open place where there’s no judgment and we can just talk about the world and any opinions that we have in an overall positive environment.” With how busy students’ lives are, it’s great to spend time growing one’s religion and slowing down before the school day.
Although some may not like the new change, members of Rooted believe that it will convey a more welcoming atmosphere, which is increasingly important given that the world feels more negative and divided than ever. It’s crucial to make an effort to connect with people with different beliefs, and to live life with an open mind.
