During the rush of classes, it’s often difficult to find time for spirituality. That’s where the many varied religious organizations in Ames come in.

Here’s just a brief look at some of the campus outreach programs offered by the city’s groups.

Protestant

The River, the collegiate program of First Evangelical Free Church, meets Thursday nights during the school year and also organizes small-group Bible study programs. 2008 24th Street, Ames.

Collegiate United Methodist Church and Wesley Foundation offers student worship services and studies, as well as frequent outreach and fellowship events (leaders say they’re especially proud of their midnight pancake feeds, one of which attracted 500 students last year). 2622 Lincoln Way, Ames.

The Salt Company, run by Cornerstone Church, offers a contemporary worship experience, as well as small connection groups and other activities. It is nondenominational, but Cornerstone is informally affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. 56829 U.S. Highway 30, Ames.

The Iowa State Unitarian Universalist Campus Fellowship is for students interested in liberal religious thought. The group meets to stimulate mutual understanding at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames, 1015 Hyland Avenue.

Latter-Day Saints

The ISU chapter of the Latter-Day Saints Student Association meets at the LDS Institute of Religion, for classes and meetings every week. The LDSSA also holds a lunch forum every Friday. 137 Lynn Ave. Suite #208, Ames.

Hindu

The Hindu Temple & Cultural Center of Iowa is located at 33916 155th Lane in Madrid, about 30 minutes away from Ames by car. The temple is open from 9 a.m. to noon on all days, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends.

Non-religious

The Atheist and Agnostic Society is a group for ISU students wishing to lead a full life without the influence of religion. Members meet weekly at the Memorial Union, and the group puts on events and takes trips frequently. Contact Dr. Hector Avalos, associate professor of religious studies.

Catholic

St. Thomas Aquinas Church and Catholic Student Center, on Lincoln Way across from the Memorial Union, is one of two Catholic parishes in Ames and the only one on campus. Students in their Catholic Student Community run and participate in their Thursday Night Liturgy, as well as other events.

Islamic

Darul Arqum Islamic Center, which is on Iowa Avenue (off of Ontario Avenue west of campus), is Ames and Story County’s only masjid (or mosque). Serving as the center for salat (prayer 5 times a day) as well as study, the Center is very active in fostering the faith of Ames Muslims as well as helping to promote interfaith understanding in the community.

Jewish

ISU Hillel aims to support Iowa State’s Jewish students and to encourage service and learning on campus. The group works with the Ames Jewish Congregation, 3721 Calhoun Avenue.

Buddhism

Ames’ nearest Buddhist center is located in Des Moines.

There are a few meditation groups in Ames. For instance, the Ames Karma Kagyu Study Group meets every Sunday at the Memorial Union. The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ames hosts group meditation.