Sperry Discusses Improvements For Religious Program of College

The College's curriculum does not present religion as effectively or comprehensively as it might, Dean Sperry of the Divinity School said yesterday. "It is unfortunate," Sperry commented, "that some students come to College unaware of religion and leave without being awakened."

Sperry's remarks followed a recent speech by Ernest C. Colwell, president of the University of Chicago, in which universities were called aloof to religion. Colwell said the attitude of college faculties was "one of indifference or carefully controlled neutrality."

"Any man who brings an interest in religion to Harvard," Sperry said, "will have opportunities here to mature that interest." But he added that a student will have to hunt for his religious instruction and inspiration, for they will not be handed to him.

Program Lacked

According to Sperry, it has been difficult for the faculty to agree on a definite program of religious instruction. He said he believes that a course on the development of religion in America would be of value. Some consideration has been given, he mentioned, to a General Education course on religion.

Some of the criticism of the College's religious program, Sperry added, comes from denominational groups which have failed to instruct their own members properly before they come to College.

He suggested that formation of small inter-racial discussion groups at the College as a way to foster religious understanding, and felt that faculty members would be glad to help such groups.