Though the time has yet to be decided, the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the School of Religion Building will take place during Homecoming weekend on Friday, Nov. 7.

According to Cole Strong, administrative assistant to the president, all the details have not been worked out, except for the date and approximate time.

Dr. Rolando Cuellar, assistant professor of intercultural studies, said that the faculty will begin with lunch at noon at the Museum Center at 5ive Points and will then proceed to the School of Religion Building for the official dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony.

“The new School of Religion Building provides our students with a wonderful context for developing a stronger sense of community with the faculty and staff and with one another,” said Dr. Thomas Doolittle, assistant professor of pastoral ministry.

Homecoming weekend will also bring two open houses for the newest building completed on campus, the first will be on Friday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., the second will be on Saturday morning from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.

“This is a wonderful building which provides a variety of opportunities for both the professors and the students,” said Dr. Jerald Daffee, professor of pastoral studies. “All the classrooms are technologically equipped. My special interest is the preaching lab which allows us to have live recording of the students as they either preach or teach.”

The Lee community has seen dramatic changes since the building began construction late last fall.

The building was completed almost one month ahead of schedule and began to house classes near the end of September.

“It is exciting to see theology and Christian ministry majors gathering throughout the building,” Doolittle said. “Whether they are enjoying a stimulating conversation over a cup of coffee in our foyer or quietly studying and contemplating in the beautiful reading room on the second floor, it’s an excellent environment for stimulating spiritual development and academic achievement among the students.”

Lee’s next building project, the new science and mathematics building is expected to begin housing classes in the first half of the building by Fall 2009.