I was looking forward to my day on campus, since all the activities were planned out by someone who wasn't me. We started out with breakfast (obviously these people know the way to my heart), and people gave short presentations about worship, Student Life, etc. I enjoyed talking with my potential classmates; the group seemed very diverse overall.
At breakfast, I was extremely surprised to see a girl I knew from my hometown! Our youth groups used to do a lot of events together when we were in junior high, and we went to the same high school. It was pretty crazy how that worked out, and it was comforting to know one other person there. [Hi, Sara S., if you're reading this. :) ]
Next, we got to choose from one of five classes to attend. The prof for the class I originally chose (History of Theology) didn't know we were coming, so he'd planned a short lecture and then discussion groups to review for an exam. We had the option to stay for discussion, but he told us it probably wouldn't be very enlightening. So, with about 45 minutes left to kill, another visitor and I decided to slip into the back of the Systematic Theology class, which was being taught by this awesome German guy. I guess I ended up getting a two-for-one deal, which was pretty cool.
Class was followed by worship, which on Fridays is just a Eucharist service with no preaching. The worship at Candler is student-planned (overseen by faculty), and so you get a varied mix of styles and religious traditions, which I think is awesome. The chapel was neat, architecturally. There were lots of curved lines integrated into the design, and the space is definitely flexible...by which I mean that they're able to move the altar around to different positions, etc., so it doesn't look the same all the time. Not really your traditional chapel (although there was still an organ). I liked it a lot.
After chapel, we were able to have lunch with current M.Div students (the degree I am pursuing is a Masters of Divinity). They were all very friendly and informative. Afterwards, they gave us a brief tour of the campus...or at least the parts we'd be likely to use.
I seriously didn't take any pictures on campus. None. I know, I know. But we were moving from activity to activity so fast...and I didn't exactly want to yank out my camera in the middle of worship, either.
So here are some photos from the Candler website... :)
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That building is Cannon Chapel. See the curvy lines I mentioned?
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Inside the chapel.
Unfortunately, I can't find a pic of the ceiling that isn't copyrighted. :( You should google it.
To prove my point, the set-up looks nothing like the day I was there! Nor did we have a choir.
Candler's building
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The last part of the day consisted of presentations about curriculum, financial aid, etc. Unfortunately, we were all super full from our delicious lunch, and everyone seemed very sleepy. But I think I got the highlights. :)
And that was the end of my whirlwind visit! After that, just a short trip to the airport and a short plane ride home. I had an awesome time in Atlanta, and I'm looking forward to visiting Durham tomorrow and Friday. I'm hopeful that after I visit both, the choice will be clear.
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