Student Views of the Great World Religions Class at Tarrant County College
Paul Derengowski, ThM
The following is a small sampling of comments from past Great World Religions students who have taken my class. When asked what one or two things did you enjoy about the class, upon exiting it for the last time, or what one or two principles that they learned that they believed would be valuable for the rest of their lives they wrote:
“Your speaking!! You are a very good speaker and present your opinions well. Something I hope to be better at in the future. I also enjoyed the openness to discussion allowed in the classroom. It was interesting to here [sic] what the other classmates had to say & what they believe. Sometimes what they said even meant more to me that what you had to say or the book because it was coming from their hearts. All around this was an awesome class and I am happy to have taken it. And I’m also happy its OVER!! J”—Josh
“What I enjoyed most about this class was learning about the Mormons & Scientology. It was entertaining to hear how Joseph Smith would “translate” the gold plates that the reformed Egyptian Jewish-American Indians had written. What was most enjoyable was the story about Xenu and how we are attacked by engrams which is what the Scientologist believes.”—Jasmin
“The one thing I enjoyed most about this class was the challenge of attending a different religion. I was required to get out of my comfort zone and learn of something unknown to me. I enjoyed but was scared at the time to visit another church. I came back with a respect of other religions and a greater love for my own belief. Thanks Professor D. Great instructor.”—Sheila
“I enjoyed learning about different religions and cults. I want to travel around the world like my grandparents have, and I believe knowledge of major religions will be helpful when visiting. Also I am going to be a forensic scientist, so knowledge about other cultures and religions will be helpful. The cults were very interesting to me as to how someone can be so manipulated by one person to give up everything in there [sic] life, even their own life just because they were told to do so.”—Ryann
“Of all of the things we did during the semester, the mock trial and visiting two churches, were the most enjoyable and enlightening things that I’ve ever actually done. If it hadn’t been for taking this class I wouldn’t have become mere open minded to learning and actually caring about the religions that surround our society. I am no longer an ignorant young Christian woman. I am an educated Christian woman and I’d like to thank you for opening that door for me Prof. D!”—Ashton
“The number one thing I would say that I learned from this class are the signs of a cult. Cults do a very good job at covering themselves up. Knowing the signs of a cult will make it easy for me to recognize when someone is trying to convince me to join one. I know to watch out for people who are trying to tell me that there is more to the bible and that I can not thing for myself.”—Amanda
“I enjoyed the material that we learned. The whole reason why I took this class was to learn about other cultures. So some of the stuff we talked about like the cults was fun. I also enjoyed the fact that this class was not easy that it really challenged me and forced me to think critically. In all honesty, and I’m not saying this for anyone [sic] sake or to impress someone but I really am going to miss this class.”—Valerie
“One of the things that I have learned is that even though I considered myself a Christian, there was still so much I needed to learn and still need to learn. I will also take with me the principle of not judging other religions as crazy or weird because now I know what most of the major religions believe and I will be able to make an educated conversation with anyone from the Muslim, Jewish, Morman [sic], etc’s religion.—Liliana
“I enjoyed finding out about how other people look at things, such as how religion affects a person’s development. It was nice not only hearing other people’s perspective but also getting to look at it from the eyes of someone so different from me and defending their beliefs instead of my own. The entire course was a learning experience, internally and externally.”—Michael
“I would have to say the one thing I enjoyed the most was the open discussions. We were all able to say what we thought was true and hear someone else’s view about it, and to understand them better. The only other thing I personally really enjoyed was the mock trials. It allowed us to come together and ask questions and open up our minds about someone’s beliefs. Each showed a different side to each other, and it showed us to face our fears of public speaking and being wrong. No one wants to be wrong in front of a crowd, but I think it made it easier on me, knowing we can’t be right all the time.”—Katherine
“Learning about other religions was very interesting. I am not an expert but I can now understand other people. The teacher was a very good teacher. He know[s] his stuff well. The classmates were nice. I really enjoyed this class a lot. Thank you.”—Sandra
“The two things I enjoyed the most about this class ironically were the same things I was looking forward to the least after the first class which were the field assignments and the mock trials. Without the pressure of school I probably would of never gone to a Jewish synagogue or to a Catholic service in my life. And now experiencing the two first-hand, I can say they were not “weird” like I first envisioned them to be. The mock trials were also enjoyable because I was able to take part in a real, sensitive debate that really struck home to a lot of people, myself included. Again, I think that the acquiring of knowledge I have learned from you as well as the textbook is incomparable to any other class I have ever taken. It was a privilege to be a part of your class!”—Moji
“One of the things I really enjoyed most about the class was having you as my teacher. I really the way you go about teaching because every day I learned something new in a manner that was understanding and very well organized. Another thing I enjoyed about this class was having the mock trials, getting to be a judge for a day without the long years of education, was exciting.”—Stephanie
“The acurate [sic] information and presentation was not only informative, but also enjoyable. Without the interaction of the mock trails I would not have met or knew how others viewed certain things. Also the field assignments were enjoyable, to where I once would have never set foot in certain temples for non[-]belief of the religion, I came to enjoy the time spent and interaction made with all the people. I truly have been exposed and opened to a broader horizon of new things to go out explore and enjoy with other of the human race. I truly enjoyed the way we were almost tail-ended on each lecture, which led me to do more of my own research and reading. Exploring all world religions in general, the idea is fun; the reality pleasurable.”—Eric
“Class discussions and videos were very interesting/informative about different beliefs. Field experiments were very good way/excuse to learn about others religions, for example Bahai and later I went to Baptist church with ****. It was very informative Baptist church visit (I didn’t write a paper on it) was interesting because I got to see Baptism of a teen, sang the songs; a lot of standing prayers, etc.
P.S. Thank you for one of the best & interesting class[sic] I have taken. I hope I get to keep in touch with you.”—Muhammad
“The first thing I enjoy on this class is the first monk [sic] trial we did. It was really interesting subject to me. It looks like we are in a real court. The second thing I enjoy the most is the way you teach. You really made this class enjoyable. You taught a lot of things about religion and because of you I do not have a confusion about religions. Than you.—Dani
“One of the most important things I enjoyed from this class was the knowledge our professor holds. I felt honored to have him as our teacher and it was very refreshing to come in to this class knowing that we are being taught by an expert in his field. Help was always a question or email away and that is comforting. On the sheet were we to fill out the first day of class on our expectations. My 3 were wide range of expertise, guidance on subject matter and patience from professor. These 3 expectations were met above and beyond and I would take any other course offered by Prof. D. This class has been my all time favorite & the knowledge I possess because of it will only enrich my life. Thank you sir, God Bless.”—Sofia
“The first thing I enjoyed about this class is the professor’s passion for theology. It is rare one comes across a real teacher. My definition of a “real teacher” is someone who not only possesses the passion for teaching, but knows its subject very well. It is wanting his/her students to gain knowledge that can be discussed with others when warranted. It is having the student becoming engaging to others in society. It is giving the student a vote of confidence with him/herself. The second thing I enjoyed about this class is the variety of beliefs of the professor and the students. No blood was shed and I could not feel more than honored to have been a small part of peace, among others even for a brief moment.”—Lisa
“The thing I enjoyed most about this class (which was actually quite disconcerting to me at the beginning of the semester) was your gutsy, non-politically correct, Christian worldview perspective of teaching. I was definitely annoyed by your commentary on Hinduism and how its worldview doesn’t make logical sense. I was also really surprised when you came out and said that Islam is hiding something and that it is a cult centered around a false prophet. But looking back on all of these things now has made this class very memorable. I really appreciate your honesty and perspective even though it may be upsetting to some. Also, through lecture and through capro.info I see that faith in Christ can be defended from non-believers. I’m looking forward to taking your Christianity class Professor D!”—Jason
“I particularly enjoyed learning about the bible through Judaism and Christianity. Primarily things in the Old Testament as well as the Trinity and the ‘Sermon on the Mount.’ I personally read through Matthew 5-7 of Jesus’ sermon and it woke me up a bit. THANKS!”—Phillip
“The mock trials and the way our Professor was able to handle all our commentaries. The writing assignments and the investigation and opertunity [sic] to learn more other cultures and religions. I did love the book and reading from those chapters that explained about the many different Gods and Goddesses around the world. I was able to appreciate [sic] more our religion Christianity. Thanks to this class I have been able to start talking about God and attending church. Thank you professor for been [sic] so patient with us.”—Daniel
“I enjoy the discussion of different religion[s]—most especially the Islamic religion. Mr. Derengowski—you are the best teacher and I enjoyed your teaching in how little time (six weeks). May the Lord blessed you & your family. It is my pleasure of knowing you.”—Elizabeth
“I have learned so much in this class about the different beliefs, practices, and history of people throughout the world. By experiencing these things first hand for the writing assignments in this class I have been awakened spiritually. At a young age I remember being filled with God’s presence and by age eight I would stay up as late as I could reading the bible. This is something I have lost over many years and something I am trying to reconnect with, and I believe taking this class was successful in igniting that spark again!”—Aimee
“I enjoyed everything in the class, including the way class just went everyday how we discussed every topic as a class, and also how everybody had a chance to ask their questions no matter how opinionated they were. I also enjoyed the mock trails [sic] that we had which bought [sic] out the best from the prosecutors, lawyers, and even the jury members that was real exciting. Its funny how the subject on our first mock trail [sic] is all over TV now, but anyway I had a great time in your class Mr. Derengowski.”—Salah
“It was excruciating taking all the notes, but it helped me learn more about religion and other cultures. I was afraid of the mock trials but after they were over I was relieved, had a good experience with both trials. I learned there is always 2 sides to the story. Thank you for being a fun teacher!”—Tony
“I enjoyed the Christian point of view. I claim to be a Christian but at the same time I am clueless. In this small amount of time I learned a lot about what it really was. I also enjoyed going to the different churches. The synagogue was a wonderful experience and something I would’ve have done if it wasn’t for this class. Overall this was a great class and a fun experience. Thanks for being my teacher.”—Adam
“I loved the mock trials. So much fun and so interesting. They really gave us an opportunity to interact and take the lead. I learned more during those interactive times and in preparation for my role that [sic] any other time. Not only were they fun, but exciting and interesting. I wish we’d had time for more than 2. The topic were so timely they helped apply what we learned in lectures to our daily lives. Thank you, it was a really great class and I learned a lot.”—Rachel
“Perhaps the most valuable thing I learned was People. I had the chance to meet new people in settings I don’t think I would have gone to if it were not for this class. I learned Religion does not define people and certainly does not entail the separation of people. Whether it be Jewish, Catholic, Baptist, or Atheist all individuals are people. I am planning on being a doctor one day and this class has really opened up a window that allowed me to see what people are like outside of my little sanctuary of ARLINGTON, TX.”—Veronica
“I enjoyed your complete honesty with me about the religions. And especially how you opened my eyes to the Islam religion and what it is capable of and exactly what their beliefs really were. I did most of my research and studying on that religion and I know so much because of what you spoke about in class. (Thank you for everything! Your [sic] the best!)”—Samantha
“I learned many new things about Hinduism, Jainism, Sikism [sic], Buddhism, Judaism. All of them would be considered new because I was very ignorant about religions in general. I learned more about the history of Christianity and how it is rooted to Judaism. It necessarily hasn’t helped me with my daily life, but I’m still working on it.”—Sean
“You have helped me become a well rounded person. I was never able to convesate [sic] about religion till now. I will I would have taken this class 1st instead of online. Oh well lesson learned & money wasted well J. Ground zero I never knew that existed. Gospel of Hip Hop never knew that either.”—Debbie
“I really enjoyed the mock trials and listening to yours and others opinions about religion. I also enjoyed going to the two different religions that I probably never would of visited. This class has also made me respect religion more. Your class was very fun and definitely going to recommend it. The best in days ahead to you too.”—Erik
“I enjoyed the fact of how much I learned about other religions, how good the teacher was in teaching and making sure I understood the info and I liked the class in general and the people I met in this class.”—Alex
“I learned to have an open mind to all religions. Some religions may be extreme, but now I understand why. I will now see people and the world with a different view. The class interaction and open conversations is what I enjoyed most about this class. I learned more in this class than I have learned in a few semester[s]. The class stayed interesting until the very end. Thank you!”—Samantha
“The most valuable lesson I learned that will help me in my daily life is about Christianity. It helps me have a better understanding about life. Another thing I learned was how each religion has its own philosophy and this helps me daily because I can be closed minded and not very accepting to new ideas and I learned to be more open minded.”—Courtney
“Most valuable lesson–the realization that my children are paying attention to the values that I am teaching them. (Remember my daughter’s reaction to our field experience.) Also, there are alot of things out there that I didn’t realize had a beginning in a religion. I enjoyed the field experiences. They forced me out of my back of the church invisibility. Universalists definitely opened my eyes to the ability to come across as religious.”—Janet
“Put Jahovah’s [sic] Witnesses before Mormonism, Scientology, and cults. Just kidding. You were a good teacher especially with peoples schedules. God bless you. This class would have been horrible with a diff. prof.”—Barrett
“The in class discussions were top notch, very opened and productive class discussions. My favorite part about the class was def. the court trial! Thank you for being understanding w/my time/travel situation. It was a pleasure working with you this summer. Good Luck in Life.”—Sidney
“I liked the first half of the class the best. It was the biggest “learning” part of the class for me because I used to know next to nothing about eastern religion. So I’m glad that’s fixed. I enjoyed your since [sic] of humor too. You’re actually a pretty funny guy J. I enjoyed most of the lectures. I’ve had some instructors just read the text on the power points to us word for word. I’m glad you went into detail when it needed to be done. I also enjoyed how laid back this class was. Very non-stressful environment coming to class everyday. Thanks a lot for an awesome class. I’m going to try and take another class with you if possible! J”—Evan
“The thing I enjoyed most in this class were the videos on Islam and the New Atheism video. These videos were more entertaining than a simple power-point but also were very informational. The Islam video opened my eyes to the true nature behind Islam, and the New Atheism video was enjoyable because I like seeing Atheists get smashed by logical arguments. Another thing that was enjoyable was the field trips. It was fun to experience the religions first hand. All in all this class was well rounded and very enjoyable.”—Alex
“If I had to condense it all down to a few lessons it would be these: The confirmation of my suspicions that all religions are not created equally, though they often have much in common. Also I’m better aware of the incredible diversity of beliefs and the universality of religious belief. These and other lessons better inform my views of others and religious establishments.”—John
“I learned throughout all the religions people are people. Some are more confused than others, but all are searching. I learned that although I need to guard my heart, I can still visit other places and see what someone else believes. I enjoyed this class. It pushed me way out of my comfort zone, but I learned a lot. I also fell I made a new friend. I am glad I took this class.”—Brenda
“The class itself, the students, the professor (You), and everything that we did was enjoyable. The second mock trial was my favorite class period. Last, the first field assignment I found most interesting. I’m glad you made us do this because I wasn’t going to try to give other religions a chance to help me understand them.”—Joseph
“What I learned during the course that became the most valuable lesson that will help me in my daily life is to better understand different cultures. I now know their beliefs and I will know how to approach them without offending them or religion. I have more respect for the different religions and their cultures.”—Brittany
“I enjoyed learning about the other religions we as Americans typically judge people by the way they look or what they wear. I enjoyed watching the videos especially the “cult” video. The mock trials are awesome because in a way it brings the students together. You learn to work with students of other religions that you would probably not speak to in the hallway or even in general. I am so glade [sic] that I hung in there and did not bail because of what you expected from us. I want to thank you for a wonderful summer.”—Brittany
“I enjoyed a lot about this class. The one thing I probably enjoyed the most about this class. I have really opened my mind to other religions. I don’t just look at someone with a turbin [sic] and automatically assume they are terrorist. I appreciate the eye opening experience. I truly believe everbody [sic] should have to take a religions class, peoples views of other cultures are to mioptic [sic]. BEST PART OF THE CLASS, a great professor and The best Final EVER!”—Joshua
“I would be lying if I didn’t say that I most enjoyed the in-class discussions over faith, particularly ones involving the existence of God. I liked hearing everyone jump in with their thoughts whenever they could, despite your request that they wait for others to finish. I just enjoy people’s excitement and ernesty [sic] when arguing over personal beliefs. I might even add that I enjoyed some arguments more because they would move from an exchanging of ideas to the class vs. Amy. I enjoy discussing my faith, but I also like being the “fly on the wall” during discussions over faith and religion. I most enjoyed this class because our discussion gave me the opportunity to do both.”—Christopher
“I actually really enjoyed your lectures. You read a lot out of the powerpoints [sic] but you can thoroughly explain and back up what you say. A lot of teachers just read and expect for you to write it down and get it. You also have a sense of humor and I like how you talk proudly about what you believe. I also enjoyed the debates, but sometimes certain people took over and would ruin them. I enjoyed this class a lot and it was a great decision taking this class. It was fun at most times except when you left us with that substitute. I think that was the worse [sic] week of the whole semester. You’re a really fun and spunky teacher. I enjoyed your videos, websites and the Draw Muhammad Day. Your assignments were also something different and fun to do. Thanks for the class! J”—Andrea
“Well the one thing I really enjoyed about class was having my beautiful Andrea with me and the knowledge of my teacher. He made the class really interesting and super funny. One of my favorite parts of the class were Christianity and Scientology. He really exposed a lot of info and sometimes in a funny way. Another thing was the field assignments that we did, because know [sic] I know about all the crazy people in town. Well it was a real great pleasure being in your class. On one more thing can I be your Facebook friend? J”—Efrain
“What I enjoyed most about the class was learning about all the different things people do in different religions. This class has made me more aware of all the things around me. For example, I now understand why my boss won’t kill a bee. He is a Buddhist and they do not believe in that. I know now why Muslims wear the Jihad [hijab], to protect their modesty and because that’s what it tells them to do in the Qu’ran. Before all I knew was that it was part of their beliefs. I now have some information to attack the Jehova’s [sic] Witnesses in my husband’s family, where before I had to sit there and pretend I was interested. This class has made me smarter & more aware of the world.”—Karina
“Honestly, my favorite moment and memory for this class will be our discussions about Christianity. It felt so great to help people understand. That was one of the best classes. I felt great using the bible to show people the point. I hope I can continue to use it correctly. Our classes about Judism [sic] was a great benefit also. My mind set is quiet [sic] different then [sic] when I took the Old Testament class. Now that I have a better understanding its [sic] great to learn. I’m really glad I took this class when I did. I’m hoping to learn more and more about these different religions and there [sic] beliefs. I [sic] will make me a better server [sic] of God. That’s all we can really hope to be.”—Andrew
“Before I came to this class I had little to no clue about any other religion. I bearly [sic] even knew anything about mine. I really learned a lot when I went to the buddhist temple. Everyone there is so calm and to me that must take a lot out of you to always be calm. Another thing that I learned in this class was about the cults and how they can be disguised. It showed how galabal [sic] people can be. It also stood out to me how people can get so involved with something that they would not do in their right minds. Most of the cult leaders tend to be people that did not have a lot of attention and there for [sic] grow this hunger for power. It is a scary thought how someone can have such influence to make you do things without your will.”—Adriana
“After taking this class I have enjoyed the variety in which the material was presented, the proffessors [sic] manner of presentation, interesting facts and broad coverage of the subject matter. However, the part I enjoyed the most was the plethora of interesting facts which puts me in-the-know! Some examples of these facts are the stories of Jehovah’s Witnesses, the life of Joseph Smith Jr. (Mormons) and Muhammad. By learning these general religious stories from the professor, in film, and through assignments I feel that I have learned a great deal. Another enjoyable point was the level of class participation everyone seemed to be comfortable and voice their opinions [sic].”—Richard
“I enjoyed the different understandings of the religions around the world. I enjoyed the open discussions and the amount of fun we had with it. There is only one other class I can remember where I knew almost all of my classmates. These classes are rare but I am glad it was this class. The knowledge I will take from this class I know will stay with me for a lifetime. I enjoyed being able to educate family and friends about all the different religions. One thing I was not so sure about was the field experience. It took me out of my comfort zone and opened my mind to see what other people believed. I enjoyed it a lot and gained so much knowledge from it th[a]n reading a book or a[n] article. I would recommend this class to my friends only if they had time to study hard! J Thankfully I had the time.”—Sara
“What I enjoyed mostly about this class is the freedom which was given to everyone to express themselves and ideas on religion. I appreciated the effort the professor put into clearifying [sic] our misconceptions on religion. I enjoyed the mock trial how envolved [sic] every one was and the details that were researched on the position. I also enjoyed the articles that informed us about several different cults on line. I enjoyed the class much more than I expected I would. I will recommend my professor to future students when need or want to take this subject.”—Gloria
“The thing I enjoyed most about this class would have to be the new knowledge I have gained from it. Even though we were not able to go into great detail about many of these religions an overview is all I really needed. I have always been interested in religion and philosophy and this class helped me in answering some of the questions I had. One of my biggest questions was about Islam and the opportunity that this class gave me to go to the mosque and compare the answers that I had been given with what I learned in class was a real eye opener. I also have always been interested in the eastern religions and learning a bit about them was very enjoyable as well. J”—Matt
“There was one principle taught and that was if you don’t know the answer to how your religion came to believe what they do or if you don’t know enough to answer the really probative questions inteligently [sic] maybe you are in that religion for the wrong reasons and should do some soul serching [sic] and fact finding to make sure that the religion you subscribe to, represent in public, and devote your spiritual life to really is all they say they are. If you cannot answer the why behind the actions you take you might as well not believe in anything.”—Amy
“What I enjoyed most about the class was the lectures and their presentation. The tone that you took with most religions was refreshing compared to other historically related lectures I’ve heard. It was captivating and interesting, without selling out the information. I learn better in a personal informal environment, and you took just that stance with your lectures. It helped me retain information a little bit better, and aided me when trying to remember parts of the lecture. Thank you for taking the time out of your life to teach such an important class, I wish you nothing but the best in your future.”—Zachary
“Learning about different religions throughout the world has made me more open-minded and tolerable towards religions other than my own. Experiencing tow religions other than my own has honestly made me a more culturely diverse individual. I learned that going off stereotypes helps to maintain a certain amount of ignorance that I no longer want to contribute. Learning about the history and foundation of other religions has created a desire to become more faithful to my own. I have even gain [sic] the courage to ask my Bishop the “difficult” questions most Christians are suppose [sic] to know or are too scared to ask. I’ve also learned not to just take his word, or even my instructors word for the whole truth. I research the answer for what will satisfy my own thirst for knowledge.”—Antrece
“What I enjoyed most about the class would definitely have to be the mock trial. It was a nice break but also brought up current issue with the Islamic religion. I liked being on the jury not only because it meant I had less to do to prepare for the trial, but also because it allowed me to think without bias. It was fun to watch the other students go back and forth with each other and having James as the head judge definitely made things more interesting. All in all, it was a good, fun learning experience. I hope for the sake of your future students that you continue to include that in the class.”—Jake
“Taking this class, I’ve really enjoyed learning the basis of these religions that we’ve discussed. I liked learning about the history and where the ideas came from for these religions and also how they have stood the test of time. Most of these religions evolved centuries ago and there are still people who find the principles relevant to today’s world. I also enjoyed learning about the cults. As someone who love psychology I really enjoyed hearing the stories of these cult leaders and learning about their cults. I also really enjoyed the textbook we used. It gave good information and a lot of pictures that really helped me understand these religions we talked about and also some of the rituals and customs of these religions.”—Krystina
“I enjoyed learning about many interesting cultures and world religions. The videos and lectures along with the CAPRO website where [sic] great tools. Out of all the religions we looked at, the one that I enjoyed the most would the many cults we looked at. Out of all these cults Scientology was the one that most interest [sic] me. At first it seems like a great New Age self help religion, however once you learn the history and truth behind L. Ron Hubbard you have to ask yourself How anyone (Tom Cruise!) could possibly believe in that B-rated Sci-fi non-sense.”—Braden
“I have really enjoyed this class very much, because I came in with a mind of I was just taking the class to be able to move on. You have really open [sic] my eyes to these different religions into details because I did not have any knowledge about some of these religions, for Scientology, Buddhism, Mormonism and others. I enjoyed the discussions in class and also the mock trial which also allowed me to know about the machines used in airports. I also enjoy the extra credit work I did because I was able to read more about all these other religions which I am use [sic] to. It is my prayer that I see you again to discuss more of these religions.”—Doris
“The thing I enjoyed about class was the subject matter itself. I liked finding out and being taught what other people do around the world. It gave me a lot more perspective for when it comes time that I make a firm decision about my religion if I ever do so. It showed me that here are billions of people on the planet that all believe very different things which make up who they are. As far as religion goes it seems like most of the world uses it as a crutch when times are hard and a reason to celebrate when times are good. Overall, the thing I enjoyed most about this class was the opportunity to think.”—James
“I’ve always been against religious stereotypes. I don’t think it’s fair to judge a whole religious community on account of one member or even a single religious sector. However, mostly due to the videos we watched on cultism & the few YouTube videos, I now realize that some “religions” actually do teach violent & obscene behavior; that these small group outbursts are actually the true “religious” followers doing as their beliefs teach. I’m sadden to come to this realization, but now I know I was being the ignorant one in conversations where my friends or family spoke the truth about certain religious groups.”—Krista
“There were a few things that I did enjoy this semester in this class. I enjoyed the fact that there was time for open discussion and many of the classmates were open to discuss. I link to hear what others have to say. I enjoyed the videos that we watched. They were very informative and sometimes it’s good to have a visual with the lesson. I actually enjoyed the assignment where we went out to the other places of worship (except the essay part J). I also enjoyed the mock trials. It was fun and a great way for everyone to work together. Also again I enjoyed that you taught from a Christian perspective! J”—Joy
“I have learned more in this class than in any other besides my dental classes. My eyes are opened to other religions and now with the knowledge I have of these religions and cults, I can argue my point for Christianity or have an understanding of other people’s beliefs. I am more open minded of other religions; as far as being understanding and less hateful towards them. That was one thing I wanted to take from this class. Again, great class! I feel you are teaching but also witnessing Christianity and I hope more try to do the same. Good luck with your classes and God bless.”—Misti
“Honestly that has been probably one of my favorite classes I’ve ever taken. I’ve never been one involved, let alone interested in religions. But I really enjoyed learning about all the different ones. I’ve learned countless things I had no idea about before. But honestly the main reason I would come to class would be because you were my teacher. You’re one of the best teachers I’ve ever had and definitely my favorite at TCC. I would take the class over if I had the chance.”—Julio
“I LOVED MY PROF! He is awesome honestly. The community quizzes were great. But, I also liked going to different churches and understanding their religions. That was great. I also loved, and was motivated, by seeing what a firm Christian believer you are honestly. Mormons care me, but I know you love encountering them! J Thanks for an awesome class, pretty sure my mom is going to take it cuz I told her I really liked it. Love you prof. Merry Christmas and hope to see you soon! With much love, Lucy J”—Lucy
“I enjoyed watching the information on the cults. They’re CRAZY! It was interesting to see how crazy the leaders were and how they could get into the minds of people and manipulate them. I also enjoyed learning about the LDS Church. I still don’t understand how they believe that, it’s sad. The mock trials were very entertaining for me as well. I loved being an attorney, and got a lot out of it. This has been one of the best course I have taken in college and I recommend it to anyone!”—Samuel
“I enjoyed all of the Power Points. You explained in good depth about each religion and covered all of the material well. I have learned a lot about other religions and that I enjoy. I also liked the class being taught from a Christian perspective. I think it was easier for me to understand it simply because of that. You were also willing to work with us in our assignments and give us second chances when you shouldn’t have. Thanks for that. Over all this was my best class this semester—seriously.”—Travis
“What I enjoyed most is learning how others live around the world and the different religions. I also enjoyed your sense of humor! You made the class entertaining while learning a lot of new information. Their [sic] was rarely a dull moment! I learned a lot of new things and understand why people do what they do.”—Chrissy
“The most important thing I learned in your class was to be more open minded and interested in learning of other religions other than my own. Going to that church put a new way perspective or way of worship God. Thought we might not agree on everything I did learn a lot from you about minor religions like Sickism [sic] and I enjoyed you letting my speak about my religion when you had the right not to let me. Thanks for a great semester. Peace be upon you. J”—Victor
“The thing I enjoyed most about this class would have to be how knowledgeable you actually were with the subjects. Provided contextual evidence to support your claims, gave amusing anectdotes [sic] from your own experiences regarding Mormonism and the like. I also really enjoyed the fact that I was not made to do a speaking role on the mock trials. I would had [sic] failed so absolutely miserably. The ones who actually had done the mock trials had near perfect knowledge of the subjects. Overall, I would suggest this class, and you as the proffesor [sic], to other students.”—Chris
“I really enjoyed the class discussions, and that you allowed us to argue out our beliefs in a respectful way. Religion is one of those touchy subjects that can cause anger and hurt feelings. I also enjoyed doing the mock trials even though there was an excessive amount of work that went into it. Thank you for not making this a blow off class and challenging each of us.”—Sara
“What I enjoyed the most about this class was the fact that this class was very interactive. The mock trial was so much fun, I enjoyed it plenty. I think that this is the most interactive class I have ever had, it was not boring at all. Your way of teaching is like no other. The mock trial way of teaching like no other. The mock trial was very realistic and as a different way of learning. I loved how I had to experience different kinds of churches. I would have never had the courage to of done something like that on my own. So I am glad that it was required. There were a lot of debates and this class was very fun!!! Thanks Professor. You are awesome!!”—Jasmine
“Well, I enjoyed mostly how it blew me out of the water! I came in expecting nothing & got everything! You have helped me so much in learning how these wonderous [sic] religions got started. It helps me to know how they work, who started them, the traditions & who runs them now! I will forever be thankful for you and this class. So with a warm heart, and big thanks know that I cherished every minute of your class!”—Martika
“There was many things I enjoyed about this class. The atmosphere for one, was very comfortable. You didn’t have to worry about saying the wrong thing. (Well most of us anyway…). I liked that fact that Prof. D. knew what he was talking about and took the time to cover what we needed to know, instead of just babeling [sic] on. I also liked the fact that my prof. loves what he does, and he too is a student and understands that we are human. The way you carry the class in the aspect of attendance. Quizes [sic] grades is very fair & professional. I believe strongly that there should be more professors like you!”—Stacy
“Wow! I really am amazed by this class and all the information that was imparted unto us. I loved everything about the class! Overall, because I intend to either become an attorney, children’s advocate or supreme court judge, I would say that I enjoyed the mock trials. I really enjoyed being the judge and half listening to the attorneys go back and forth. I enjoyed being a witness and researching so that I could “appear” to be a credible witness. Again, I enjoyed this class to the fullest and I would love to learn more. (email me some books to read!! J). Thanks Mr. D!!”—Antiqwanna
“I thought the lectures were interesting. I mostly thought the special videos to be the funnest [sic] priveleges [sic]. The debates with Hitchens and D’Souza were especially fun personally. I also appreciated you going to the source doctrines and writings of especially Mormonism. Most people in the class did not seem interested, but I was. I would have enjoyed some more in depth material on Islam, since it is a religion of extreme relevance to the west and to me personally.”—Sam
“Where to begin? The class in and of itself was very interesting. Though I don’t agree with the other religions, I find them very fascinating. The field experiences were great. If it hadn’t been for them, I probably never would’ve stepped foot in a church other than my own. I wouldn’t be able to say that I’ve been to a Buddhist temple or spoken to a monk. I learned so much & had a blast doing it. The mock trials were a ton of fun. I was able to look at things from two perspectives & truly understand. It actually had me thinking about getting into law. I absolutely loved this class.”—Jessica
“I enjoyed listening to all of the presentations from the students about the various other places of worship they had visited. I had never heard of most of them. I also had never dared to visit any of them. I also enjoyed the discussions about yoga. They definitely don’t have a warning about possession on the mat when you buy one!”—Billie
“What I enjoyed most about this class was what I initially was not looking forward to: field assignments. I thought it was going to be difficult to just show up at a religious setting where I was not a member. I was afraid of not being accepted because of my religion. But in the end I loved it! Even though Scientology was not as exciting as Hinduism when it came to the visit, I learned a lot from both and now I can actually say, ‘Been there done that!’ Thank you for making both classes so interesting! To tell you the truth, I was a bit apprehensive about having the same professor for two classes back to back! But I wouldn’t have it any other way! I’ve gained sooo much from you & my faith is stronger that ever! At first it was just taking this for credit hours, but if I were to make the decision again, I would take this class again because of how amazing it was! I feel so knowledgeable & I am more well-rounded. THANKS!”—Edith
Of course, all of these former students are "evil," vile, irrational, intolerant bigots, just like the professor. And if you believe that, then we all have some beachfront property in Southwest Texas we would like to sell you.