Rick Axtell
College and Chaplain and Associate Professor of Religion
e-mail: rick.axtellr@centre.edu

Rick initially taught at Centre during 1992-93 and returned to the college in 1995, when he also became Chaplain and Director of the Religious Life Office.  Axtell received his M.Div. and Ph.D. from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.  He has completed additional postgraduate studies at the University of Notre Dame.  Axtell's experience as a minister in several churches, Director of an interfaith anti-hunger organization, Case Manager in Louisville homeless shelters, and Board member of Witness for Peace has shaped the diverse program emphases of the Religious Life Office.

Centre College's roots are Presbyterian. Since 1819, the college's purpose has been the full intellectual, social, physical, ethical, and spiritual development of students. An integral part of achieving that purpose is the Religious Life Office.

Although our roots are Presbyterian, the Religious Life Office is designed to celebrate our religious diversity. The largest group on campus, religiously, is Catholic, followed by Baptist, Christian Church/Disciples, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Episcopalian. Centre also has students who are Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist, as well as a dozen other Christian denominations.

The Religious Life Office is located on the third floor of the Warehouse, sharing space with CARE.

Catalogues from over 100 Seminaries and Divinity Schools are available for those who may be considering graduate studies in religion. In addition, there is extensive information on internships, volunteer positions, mission opportunities, and career options in the areas of social service, mission, or peace and justice work.

Staff or clergy from a variety of local congregations have office hours during the week. Please feel free to come by for information, conversation, or inspiration.