Medford/Somerville, Mass. --"Give it another try." That's the advice Tufts University Chaplain Scotty McLennan gives to adults who feel they have lost their religion and are looking for guidance. In the June 5 issue of People Magazine, McLennan explains that religion "isn't the constricted, judgmental thing you thought it was when you freeze-dried it at age 12."

   The advice may be simple, but it requires dedication. "Like anything worthwhile, there will be moments of discouragement," he cautions. "It takes work and discipline." McLennan tackles the process of spiritual growth and development in his new book: Finding Your Religion: When the Faith You Grew Up With Has Lost Its Meaning, which hit bookshelves this past winter.

   McLennan told People that he sees growing interesting in religion and spirituality in American society. "Scientific and technological revolutions and material success have not provided all we've hoped for in making the world a safe, healthy and trustworthy place," he explains. As a result, McLennan says religious interest is on the rise.

   Over his 16-year career as Tufts chaplain, McLennan says that students are increasingly more interested in spirituality. He adds that since he arrived at Tufts, "Jewish and Protestant services have doubled, and Catholic services have been packing the chapel."

   Above all, McLennan stresses that embracing spiritual growth should be fun. After all, the chaplain is the real-life inspiration for Doonesbury's Reverend Scot Sloan. (McLennan roomed with Doonesbury's creator Garry Trudeau, setting the stage for his rebirth as Doonesbury's famous Rev. Sloan.)

   McLennan told People that he shares a lot in common with his cartoon counterpart. "He is a liberal, politically active character who has gotten into the same issues -- the sanctuary movement, the antiapartheid movement, getting one's web page up as a chaplain --though usually before I have," McLennan says. "I would hope that he's a little more simplistic than I am. But Garry never consults me about this."

Online: http://www.tufts.edu/communications/printable/0606mclennan