About our Work
Since our founding in 2010 as Cogito, we have helped Hampden-Sydney students explore the stories of Genesis, the philosophy of Plato, and the theology of Augustine. We’ve read the novels of John Steinbeck and Fyodor Dostoevsky, scholars of just-war theory and foreign policy, and issues in modern biblical interpretation.
We invite all comers — Christians and others — to discuss issues of faith, life, and culture openly, honestly, and respectfully.
Why?
Our modern society desperately needs respectful dialogue across difference. College students today, particularly young men, are seeking transcendent answers to everyday problems. We are convinced that the historic, classical Christian tradition provides wisdom and guidance for confusing and turbulent times. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of our work, and something we enthusiastically offer to students and faculty as the basis for a life well lived.
Why Hampden-Sydney?
Since 1775, H-SC has been a culture and leader-shaping institution, graduating “good men and good citizens” into society. We can’t think of a better place to contribute to the moral, intellectual, and spiritual formation of young men who will go on to be influential leaders in communities, churches, and workplaces across the nation.
What do we believe?
The cornerstone of our work is Jesus, as understood and historically expressed by the Apostle’s Creed. Jesus Christ is not merely a historical figure in human history, nor merely a source of comfort or assurance about life after death. God has entered human history and revealed himself fully in the person of Jesus Christ. This means that all aspects of life are relevant to a vibrant Christian faith, including the life of the mind!
There is much room for dialogue under the banner of what C.S. Lewis once called “Mere Christianity” — a broad-minded approach to thinking that is yet firmly grounded in the fundamental truths of the Christian faith. We invite students and faculty into respectful conversation — whether or not they share our beliefs — because the pursuit of truth is a common endeavor for all people. And something our world urgently needs.
The Legacy of Francis and Edith Schaeffer
After World War II, Francis and Edith Schaeffer moved to Europe to serve God as Presbyterian missionaries. In the late 1950s, they purchased a chalet on a Swiss mountainside, and before long they were welcoming into their home young people who were seeking answers to life’s deepest questions in the midst of the social ferment of the 1960s. The Schaeffer’s ministry of hospitality and teaching influenced evangelical Christianity around the world, and eventually helped catalyze a new movement of Christian study centers at colleges and universities in America. Schaeffer graduated magna cum laude from Hampden-Sydney College in 1935, and the Center is named in his honor, both for his connection to H-SC and his commitment to thoughtful Christianity.
Part of a Movement
The Schaeffer Center is part of a growing movement of Christian study centers around the United States, and even now in Europe! Over 36 centers offer lectures, study groups, fellows programs and other activities to promote the integration of spiritual, intellectual, and vocational formation for students and faculty members within the context of the Christian faith. The Consortium of Christian Study Centers helps network and support these study centers, and the Schaeffer Center is proud to be a member.
Please consider joining us in helping H-SC students become thoughtful Christian leaders, connecting the Christian faith to all fields of study, and all aspects of life.
Stay Connected!
We would love to stay in touch with you about our work with students and faculty at Hampden-Sydney. Please fill out this form to keep informed of what’s happening on the Hill!