Maureen Bauchan is a Scripture and World Religions teacher here at Rice. Though she has only been here for three years, she has become a beloved member of our Rice community. You may see her shooting hoops at pep rallies, cheering on our students during Stunt Nite, or greeting you with a smile in the halls; either way, her commitment to service through her work as a teacher and a part of our community is clear to all that know her.
As a World Religions teacher, she enjoys teaching about other faiths; however, her real passion stems from teaching others about Jesus. Through her Scripture class, she introduces her students to Jesus by reading the Gospels, art, and stimulating lectures. Her love for Jesus plays a large role in her life and her vocation as an adult and an educator. Additionally, her love for her students and coworkers truly contributes to a positive atmosphere, as she exemplifies what it means to be a member of the Rice community: to learn to serve others as Jesus did.
When did faith really come to play a role in your life?
My love of my faith, really has been with me since I was a child. My mom and my dad were very formative of my faith because they’re also both catholic. I went to catholic grammar school, I became an altar server in fourth grade and it’s just always been a very important part of my life.
What is your favorite part about teaching?
Anytime I get to talk about the Gospel or Scripture, that’s my favorite. That having been said, I really do enjoy the World Religions as well, our Christianity unit, our Judaism unit, and our Hinduism unit are my favorite. I really do love everything I teach. My favorite activity is literally just to sit and pray with and for my students.
What do you think is the most difficult part of teaching?
I think the hardest part is just balancing everything. I feel like the world in general can be a little difficult, so I just have to navigate the world and help students. But it’s funny, because Jesus gives that quote “my yolk is easy, my burden is light” so whenever I’m having difficulties…as soon as I focus on him it’s the easiest job in the world.
How do you manage your role as a teacher and a member of your family?
I think I just try to channel my call to motherhood. It’s serving. Just everyday I have to understand that everything I do is either serving my family or students but that’s exactly what He wants me to do everyday. So thank god, for me my vocation naturally fits into my job.
What’s your favorite memory so far, teaching at Rice?
My favorite memory at Rice so far is every time I have laughed with my colleagues and students (which is often and everyday).
What do you hope your students take away from their experience in your class?
I just want them to know and love Jesus–whether or not that’s a formal belief. If they can get to know who he is–in the Gospels–for who he is, to me there is nothing you cannot love about Him, He’s just so lovable, the way He talks to everyone around him in the Gospels, the way he treats women. I just want them to know and love Him.
