At the Fields of Faith event in October, Jennie Ramirez, Daniella Barros, and Izzy Gidado assist with the turn out of athletes on Colonia football field. The event first started in 2004 and 20 years later, it was held on Colonia's blue turf.
At the Fields of Faith event in October, Jennie Ramirez, Daniella Barros, and Izzy Gidado assist with the turn out of athletes on Colonia football field. The event first started in 2004 and 20 years later, it was held on Colonia’s blue turf.
Photo Credit: Logan Goncalves
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Bridging beliefs: how religion shapes school communities

Byline photo of Oreofeoluwa I. Gidado
By: Oreofeoluwa I. Gidado, Editor
January 2, 2025

Troubles with religion in schools

Religion in schools is a highly controversial topic. Many people feel uncomfortable even discussing religion. This sensitivity arises because religion is tied to deeply held beliefs and personal identities. Conversations on this subject can easily lead to misunderstandings, disagreements, or feelings of exclusion. Public schools often consist of students and staff from diverse religious and non-religious backgrounds, making it challenging to ensure that everyone feels respected and included during discussions about faith. In countries like the United States, the principle of separation of church and state limits how religion can be addressed in public schools. As a result, educators must avoid promoting or endorsing any specific belief system.

FCA

Students can join the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) club at New Jersey high schools like Colonia, Old Bridge, Timothy Christian, Howell and Raritan. FCA is a nationwide Christian organization that helps coaches and athletes grow in their faith and make a positive impact. Founded in 1954, FCA operates in middle schools, high schools, colleges, and professional sports. FCA combines sports and faith to create a supportive environment for athletes and coaches. Through meetings and activities, they encourage discussions about faith, build character, and promote positive examples. FCA is active in all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries, reaching millions yearly through local Huddles in schools and sports teams. These small groups allow participants to share experiences and support one another. Joining FCA helps athletes and coaches explore their spirituality, develop leadership skills, and face challenges in sports and life.

Effect of FCA

At Colonia, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is excited to invite all student-athletes to discover the wonderful connection between faith and sports together. They happily welcome everyone, regardless of their background, to join our uplifting huddles! It’s a fantastic way to build a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels included!

 

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The vibe at FCA is all about community and sharing a love for Christ while also learning to appreciate different perspectives. Jennie Ramirez, a senior with Colonia FCA, shares, “It is incredible to see God working in our school. FCA gives students a place to share their beliefs and experiences, and it’s honestly the highlight of my week!”

 

In addition to its regular meetings, the club hosts many fun activities outside of school, such as its exciting annual summer camp, Operation Christmas Child, and Fields of Faith events. These gatherings are perfect for students to strengthen friendships and grow together in their faith. Dylan Chiera, a junior at Colonia High School, shared his thoughts on the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), saying, “One of my favorite things about FCA is having a supportive community that helps you grow closer to God.”

Events and activities

A great turnout for the Middlesex County FCA Fields of Faith event on November 6th.

In addition to regular meetings, the club organizes various activities, including an annual summer camp, Operation Christmas Child, and Fields of Faith events. These initiatives promote fellowship, service, and character development, highlighting the importance of faith in all areas of life. Ramirez said, “I love FCA! I connect with friends and teachers, enjoy bagels at meetings, and learn to be a better Christian.” Colonia’s FCA Club helps students build friendships and positively impact the community, whether they want to deepen their faith or connect with others. Chiera shares ” Fields of Faith was awesome. We got into some really inspiring messages, enjoyed Tucker Rodkey’s painting, and made great connections with friends from different schools. It was definitely a time to remember!”

 

Inclusivity

Colonia High School promotes an inclusive environment by ensuring that students of all faiths can practice their beliefs. For instance, Muslim students have the option to pray privately in designated rooms. During significant periods like Ramadan, the school makes accommodations for fasting students. The school actively commits to meeting all students’ spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental needs, fostering a respectful atmosphere that neither promotes nor demotes any particular faith or belief system.

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About the Contributor
Oreofeoluwa I. Gidado
Oreofeoluwa I. Gidado, Editor
Oreofeoluwa Isabel Gidado is a seventeen-year-old Colonia High School student. She participates in a variety of sports and hobbies. The sports she plays include basketball, track, and volleyball. Gidado is active in the following clubs: Student Council, FCA, National Honor Society, Heroes and Cool Kids, Black Student Union, and SPTS. Gidado has played varsity basketball for four years. It is her favorite sport and plans spending the next four years playing at a university. Gidado hasn’t committed to a school yet but will soon. FCA is her favorite club where she is the student leader and has the opportunity to talk about her faith with other athletes. Despite being the eldest of three children, Gidado comes from a huge Nigerian family. Since it's easier for people to pronounce, she goes by "Izzy" instead of her first name.  She enjoys volunteering at recreational games, church, food banks, and sports camps in her free time. Gidado's passions include traveling, exploring, taking pictures, experiencing life with her loved ones, and giving back to the community. As she gets older, she hopes to visit London, Brazil, Jamaica, and many more to add to her list.