A bell rings, lunch begins and students file into a classroom carrying pizza, Bibles and conversations with friends. They gather around desks pushed together, filling the room with discussion as more students arrive. Some grab a slice of pizza before taking a seat, while others begin flipping through their Bibles and talking in groups.
As the meeting gets underway, students settle in and turn their attention to the day’s discussion. The club’s president opens in prayer before the group begins reading scripture and sharing their thoughts. Similar scenes take place each Wednesday at West Albany High School and South Albany High School, where student-led faith groups meet during lunch. The gatherings give students a chance to discuss their beliefs, connect with peers who share their faith and build a sense of community during the school day.
President Zion Moelle opens her pre-prepared Google Slides containing the lesson of the day and projects it. The openness of the environment allows conversation among all about how they interpret scriptures and what it means to them. Student-led religious groups, which are rare in much of Oregon, are becoming visible again in Linn County schools…