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News and Programs 09.05.25
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Journeys Vietnam
May 13-22, 2026
Applications Due: Friday, October 10, 2025
As 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, Journeys will visit Vietnam and learn from those on the ground how they have healed and rebuilt from that time. We will explore the multireligious history of Vietnam, including the influences of folk religion, Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Christianity, traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Huê to Hanoi. We will also learn about the nonviolent peace activism of the late Buddhist master Thich Nhat Hanh, known as the “father of mindfulness,” and a leading figure of engaged Buddhism.
Journeys of Reconciliation is an interfaith travel and learning immersion program that explores issues of social justice and builds relationships between Emory University and communities in the U.S. and around the world. Undergraduate and graduate students not graduating in May 2026 may apply. Apply and learn more below. For questions, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Recap: Welcome Back Dinner for Undergraduate Spiritual Student Organization Leaders
On Tuesday, September 2, over 35 undergraduate spiritual student organization leaders representing over 20 communities joined the university chaplain, Dean Greg McGonigle, and other spiritual life staff for a special dinner at the Emory Interfaith Center at 1707 N Decatur Road. Students networked with each other, learned about University Chaplaincy resources, and shared their goals for the year. Dean McGonigle shared current and upcoming priorities, Emory's multifaith chaplaincy team introduced themselves, and Chaplain Maddie presented on creating healthy religous groups on campus. Learn more about Emory's different spiritual communities here.
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Recap: Book Talk and Lunch on The Islamic Mary
On Thursday, September 4, the Emory University Chaplaincy, the Aquinas Center of Theology, the Religion Department, and MESAS welcomed Dr. Younus Mirza to give a book talk on his new book, The Islamic Mary: Maryam Through the Centuries. Many thanks to our partners and all who came out and engaged in this great interfaith conversation.
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School of Law Opens New Prayer and Meditation Room
Opening Celebration: Tuesday, September 16, 12:30 pm, G305A, Gambrell Hal
The Emory University School of Law, working with the Emory University Chaplaincy, has designed and outfitted a new Prayer and Meditation Room in Gambrell Hall, Room G305A. The room will be available for use by students, faculty, and staff, and all are invited to a brief opening celebration and reception on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 12:30 pm outside the room. For more information, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Emory University Chaplaincy: Chaplain Office Hours in AMUC 125
Monday-Friday starting Wednesday, August 27, Noon-2:00 pm, AMUC 125
Emory University Chaplaincy chaplains are available Monday through Friday from approximately Noon-2 pm during term in AMUC Suite 125 to offer pastoral care and have meetings with students, faculty, and staff. The general schedule is below and may vary semester to semester.
- Monday: Rev. Maddie Herlong
- Tuesday: Ven. Priya Rakkhit Sraman
- Wednesday: Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov
- Thursday: Pandit Rajeev Persaud
- Friday: Rabbi Jordan Braunig
To schedule a time with a chaplain outside of these hours, please contact them directly here.
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Register Today: Homecoming and Family Weekend Events
October 23-26, 2025
Join the Emory University Chaplaincy for many spiritual programs and festive receptions over Homecoming and Family Weekend.
- Jumu’ah Prayer and Community Reception
- Hindu Aarti and Community Reception
- Voices of Inner Strength Gospel Choir 40th Anniversary Celebration
- Shabbat at Chabad: Friday Night Shabbat Dinner and Saturday Shabbat Day Services and Lunch
- Shabbat at Hillel: Friday Shabbat Dinner and Sunday Brunch
- Buddhist Meditation and Community Reception
- Find our table at the Food and Music Festival on Saturday, October 25 from Noon-4:30 pm on the Quad
- Catholic Masses and Catholic Center Open House
- Beloved Community Christian Worship and Lunch
A list of the events and registration info can be found here.
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Emory Interfaith Center
Monday-Friday 9:00 am-8:00 pm starting Tuesday, September 2.
Available on weekends by reservation.
The Emory University Chaplaincy maintains many prayer and meditation spaces across campus, including the Emory Interfaith Center at 1707 N. Decatur Road. Hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 am-8:00 pm starting Tuesday, September 2. Available on weekends by reservation. Please feel free to stop by for a free coffee or snack, reserve space for your spiritual gatherings, talk with a chaplain, or just relax.
Learn more about the Emory Interfaith Center here. Learn about our other sacred spaces here.
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Welcome Lillian Hibbard, Emory Beloved Community Contextual Education Intern 2025-2026
My name is Lillian Hibbard (she/her). I generally go by Lilly, but I like and will answer to either name. I finished my bachelor’s in religion and cultural studies at University of Central Florida. During COVID, I decided to do something different with my life, and after searching online, I found the combination of religion and culture at Candler School of Theology and applied to the M.Div. program. I knew taking this step would be the hardest thing I’ve done in my entire life as I left my home community, but I was very excited about it. I’m excited to learn through experience as I work with Rev. Maddie and the Beloved Community. I love this energetic and passionate community, and I have great expectations for our future together as we tackle the hard work of forming a fellowship that fosters flourishing. I have so much to learn from this community, and I pray that my service will benefit you even as you bless me.
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Recognizing #RedFlags
Monday, September 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m., AMUC 108
Looking for community and conversation? Join the Office of Respect and Office of Religious and Spiritual Life for a special program
Did you know Emory’s religious and philosophical communities follow policies designed to protect your wellbeing? Groups outside university structures (or that don’t follow policies) should raise red flags. At Emory, we believe in engaging with respect, collaboration, and positive interfaith connection. Come hang out, ask questions, and learn how these guidelines help keep our community safe and supportive. Relationship Harm can happen to anyone at any point in their life.
Join the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life and the Office of Respect for an interactive experience to learn how to spot healthy and unhealthy behaviors in interpersonal and group relationships.
Food will be provided. Please RSVP here.
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Beloved Community Christian Worship and Free Lunch
Sunday, September 7, 11:00 a.m Service, Noon Free Lunch, Cannon Chapel
Emory Beloved Community is a weekly ecumenical Protestant worship service for the campus community, held in Cannon Chapel. All are welcome.
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Beloved Community Fall Bible Study: Claiming Our Identity in Christ
Tuesdays beginning September 9, 6:00 pm, Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Beloved Community Bible Study is led by Rev. Maddie, Emory's Christian Chaplain, and OSRL chaplaincy interns. Join us as we explore what the Bible has to say for us today and as we deepen our community bonds. This fall, we'll explore what scripture has to say about our identity as Christians. Sign up in the Hub or email mhend25@emory.edu.
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Beloved Community Fall Retreat
Saturday, September 20, 9:30 am-9:00 pm, Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Join us on Saturday September 20 for the Beloved Community Fall Retreat. We have a great day of fellowship, time in Lullwater Park, crafts, and worship planned. If you have questions, contact Rev. Maddie at mhend25@emory.edu. Register by Monday September 15. We will meet at the Interfaith Center (1707 N Decatur Road) at 9:30 a.m. for breakfast and opening worship. We'll venture to Lullwater Park for a walk and a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, we will have time for crafts, games, and fellowship. We will enjoy dinner together and evening worship. We will conclude by 9:00 p.m. We hope you'll join us for this fun time of community and fellowship building. This retreat is for current Emory students.
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Buddhist Meditation
Thursdays during term
Community Tea and Refreshments, 5:15 pm, Cannon Chapel 106
Guided Meditation and Dharma Discussion, 6:00 pm, Cannon Chapel Sanctuary
This week's session on September 4, "Vitamin C(ompassion) for a Healthy Heart," will be facilitated by two Buddhist nuns, Venrable Damcho and Venerable Dekyi from Sravasti Abbey, WA. They will talk about cultivating a daily practice of care and compassion. Come to enjoy light refreshments before meditation, and to connect with Emory Buddhist Club leaders and friends. Contact: Buddhist Chaplain Ven. Priya Rakkhit Sraman, psraman@emory.edu.
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Mindfulness Circle at Interfaith Center
Mondays starting September 8, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center Meditation Room, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Facilitated by Emory Buddhist Chaplain Venerable Priya Rakkhit Sraman, the Mindfulness Circle is a space exclusively for Emory students to practice mindfulness as a group. Every Monday during the semester, we will engage in a mindfulness exercise followed by conversations around the practices of mindfulness. Light refreshments will be provided.
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Muslim Jumu'ah Prayers and Halal Lunch
Fridays, Prayers 1:55 p.m., Lunch 2:30 pm, Cannon Chapel
Join us for Friday Prayers every week, which will be followed by a hot halal lunch in Brooks Commons. Join the Emory Muslim Life elist here. For questions, please contact Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov.
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Weekday Fajr Prayers
Monday-Friday during term, times vary, Cannon Chapel Room 106
Join the Muslim Students Association and Emory Muslim Life for Fajr prayers in the morning at Cannon Chapel Room 106. Students must request EmoryCard access through the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life in order to attend. For EmoryCard access and instructions, please email religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Muslim Life Weekly Halaqa and Dinner
Wednesdays during term starting September 10, 6:30-7:45 pm, Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road (Dates and times may change, but sign up to receive information)
All Emory students are invited to join us for an Islamic text study on different topics each week. Dinner will be provided. Previous attendance not required. For more information, please contact Emory Muslim Chaplain Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov at rahimjon.abdugafurov@emory.edu.
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Muslim Students Association: Welcome Back Gala
Friday, Septmber 12, 6:00 pm, ESC MPRs
Join Emory MSA for our Annual Welcome Back Gala on Friday, September 12 from 6–9 pm. Kick off the semester with good food, fun games, exciting giveaways, and the chance to meet new and familiar faces in the Muslim community. Whether you're a returning student or new to Emory, this is the perfect way to celebrate the start of the year.
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Hindu Aarthi
Friday, September 5, 5:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel Sanctuary
Join Emory's Hindu community for weekly prayers and community. All are welcome.
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Hindu Students Association: Garba
Friday, September 19, 7:00-11:00 p.m., ESC MPRs
Garba is a Gujarati festival that takes place during the nine-day Hindu celebration of Navratri. The Hindu Students Association (HSA) has been hosting a university-wide Garba for the past 12 years, making it our biggest special event. In recent years, we’ve welcomed over 600 attendees, bringing together students, faculty, and community members.
Our Garba includes an aarti (small Hindu prayer), performances by on-campus dance groups, three types of open dance floors (Garba, Dandiya, and Bollywood), a full catered dinner, and a South Asian DJ. Emory HSA strives to ensure that Garba is accessible to anyone who would like to attend. The event is held at the Emory Student Center, at the heart of campus, and is completely free. Learn more here.
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Chabad at Emory: Shabbat
Fridays during Term, Services 7:30 p.m., Dinner 8:00 p.m., 1500 N Decatur Road, Atlanta, GA 30306
Join fellow Emoryites and experience Shabbat at Chabad. A perfect blend of gourmet food, spirited singing, friendly schmoozing, and inspired ideas. RVSP is a must. Text “Shabbat Dinner” to 404.999.7787 to register. Sponsored by Chabad at Emory. Learn more here.
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HIllel at Emory: Upcoming Activities
From board games to bagels, there are many ways to connect at Emory Hillel.
Visit instagram page here to keep in touch and on top of the schedule.
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Hillel at Emory: Newish and Jewish; Exploring Atlanta Edition
New to ATL or just looking for an adventure? Come explore the city with Emory Hillel. We’re hitting up some of Atlanta’s best spots this semester:
- Braves Game – Tuesday, September 9 at 7:15 pm
- World of Coke – Sunday, October 5
- Dinner at Ponce City Market and Holiday Lights at Atlanta Botanical Gardens – Saturday, Nov 15 at 6:30 pm
Transportation is included if you need it. Tickets are just $12 each or grab the bundle for $35 for all 3. Register now here. We can’t wait to explore ATL with you.
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University Catholic Center: Sunday Masses
Sundays, 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join us for Sunday Masses on campus.
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Graduate Christian Fellowship: First Friday Dinner
Friday, September 5, 7:00-9:00 pm, Brooks Commons, Cannon Chapel
Join us for dinner and a panel discussion about following Jesus in graduate school. Our panelist are students in the latter years of their programs and they are excited to share some of their story with you. Register here.
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Graduate Christian Fellowship: Bible Study
Thursdays, 6:00-7:00 p.m., AMUC 125C
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Graduate Christian Fellowship: Ice Cream Social
Monday, September 15, 7:00-9:00 pm, Butter and Cream, Decatur Square
Meet us in Decatur Square for ice cream and a chance to get to know members of GCF better. The Emory CCTMA shuttle runs to Decatur square or reach out if transportation is an issue. For questions, please contact elizabeth.somsen@emory.edu.
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Baptist Collegiate Ministry: Upcoming Fall 2025 Events
August 28-September 8, 2025
Welcome weeks are upon us. Come check us out at these upcoming events. Learn more here.
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Reformed University Fellowship
Mark your calendars for these events so you can come by and see us. Learn more here.
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Collegiate Black Christians: Weekly Bible Study
Wednesdays starting September 3, Cannon Chapel 106
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Bread Coffeehouse: Beach Kick-Off Party
September 4, 7:15 p.m., Bread Coffeehouse, 1227 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30307
Bring your beach vibes and friends to Bread as we kick off the year, Thursday at 7:15 pm. Join us for free tacos and t-shirts, wii games, a cornhole tournament with prizes, the NFL kick-off game, and ultimate brownies.
(Does that mean brownies stuffed with every treat imaginable or the best brownies you've ever tasted? Come to find out...)
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Emory Orthodox Christian Fellowship Faith and Falafel
Every Wednesday starting September 10, 7:30 p.m., Cannon Chapel Room 314
Come for the falafel, stay for the conversation. Join us every Wednesday night from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in Cannon Chapel 314 for free falafel sandwiches, fellowship, and rich discussion.
Bring youself, your friends, and a curious mind. All are welcome, no matter your faith. Join us as we get to know each other, study the spiritual life of the apostles, and grow in Christ together–week by week. We can't wait to meet you–each week brings something new. You can learn more or RSVP here or email samuel.salameh@emory.edu.
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Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church: Sunday Worship Services
Sundays, 8:30 am and 11:00 am, Glenn Memorial Church
Glenn Memorial UMC invites you to worship with us. A short walk to the edge of campus, Glenn has a thriving young adult group, and we welcome newcomers anytime. Are you an early riser to get a head start on homework? The 8:30 service might be for you. Do you sleep in on Sundays? We'll catch you at 11:00 am. There is a place for you at Glenn, and we'd love to help you find it.
For more info about worship or young adult ministry, visit our website here https://www.glennumc.org/young-adults or contact Director of Young Adult Ministries Sutton Smith at 334-707-1486.
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Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church: Sunday Supper
Sunday, September 14, 6:00 p.m., Glenn Memorial Church Fellowship Hall
Emory undergrads are invited to Sunday Supper at Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, located at 1660 N Decatur Rd. Church members are providing homemade dishes, including lasagna, vegetables, salad, and apple pie. This will be a casual time to hang out, eat good food, and make friends. If you have any questions, text Sutton Smith, Director of Young Adult Ministries, at 334-707-1486. RSVP here to help us get a headcount for food.
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International InterVarsity Fellowship
Our summer activities ended and our new school year is about to start. Please check and sign up for our coming activities here.
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Weekly Spiritual Gatherings
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There are a plethora of weekly religious and philosophical gatherings offered at Emory. Many of them are listed here and at the button below.
Check back for more weekly gatherings as the semester gets started.
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Interfaith Atlanta: Interfaith Fall Festival
Sunday, September 14, 2:30-5:00 p.m., Columbia Theological Seminary, 701 S. Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30030
Save the Date: We are so excited to present our 5th annual Interfaith Festival. Join us for entertainment, food, friendship, community service, and music. Learn more here.
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Compassionate Atlanta: Peace Pop-Up
Saturday, September 21, 3:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., Waller's Coffee Shop
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World River Day: Interfaith Creek Cleanup
Sunday, September 28, 2:00-4:00 p.m., Six Metro Atlanta Sites
Join Georgia Interfaith Power & Light, the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, Adamah Atlanta, and Ismaili CIVIC on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. for a special interfaith creek cleanup across six metro Atlanta sites. This meaningful cleanup celebrates World Rivers Day, Reverse Tashlich, and Global Ismaili CIVIC Day—three powerful traditions of service, reflection, and environmental care. World Rivers Day highlights the international importance of our rivers and inspires renewed commitment to protecting them. In Reverse Tashlich, Jewish communities turn ritual into action by removing human “sin” (pollution) from waterways and offering a clean start to the new year. And Global Ismaili CIVIC Day calls Ismaili Muslims to serve their communities worldwide through volunteerism. Together, communities of all faiths are invited to act upon a shared ethic of environmental stewardship and care for our Common Home. All living creatures deserve clean water
Cleanup sites include Cobb County, the Chattahoochee River, Clyde Shepherd Nature Preserve, Fulton County Public Works, Mason Mill Park, and the Peachtree Creek Greenway.
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Candler School of Theology: Chapel Worship Schedule
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11:05 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel Sanctuary
All are welcome to join the Candler community in ecumenical worship. View the Candler worship schedule here.
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The Center for the Study of Law and Religion: Lunch and Discussion of "The People's Canon for Human Flourishing in the Age of AI"
Tuesday, September 9, Noon-1:30 pm, Hunter Atrium, 3rd Floor, Gambrell Hall
The Center for the Study of Law and Religion is pleased to invite Emory Law students, faculty, and staff to join Prof. Whittney Barth and Prof. John Bernau for lunch and discussion of their ongoing project, “The People’s Canon for Human Flourishing in the Age of AI,” funded by the Atlanta Interdisciplinary AI Network.
The event will include an introduction to the project, brief comments from panelists, and time for Q&A and discussion, all over a free lunch. To peruse our latest project updates, check out the People's Canon website here.
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Emory Department of Religion: Student Connections Drop-In Sessions
Tuesday, September 9, Callaway Center S218
Session One: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Session Two: 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Join us for a light lunch/snacks and interesting conversations. You are welocme to attend any session and drop-in anytime during the time slots. This is an opportunity for students to come meet the department's faculty members and staff and connect with other students/
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Center for Ethics: Ethics Across Traditions: Atonement and Repentance
Thursday, September 11, 7:00-9:00 p.m., Center for Ethics Room 102
Wrongdoing, suffering, and repairing are part and parcel of the human condition. Yet these are variably understood across traditions. Some traditions speak of such experiences in terms of transgression and atonement, others use terms like sin, guilt, and repentance. Forgiveness and reconciliation, dignity and humility, vulnerability and trust mix and mingle in this eternal pursuit to mend profound wounds. Come and hear this conversation between scholars of religion, theology, and ethics. Learn more here.
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Sustainable Transportation Fair 2025
September 16, 2025, 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m., McDonough Plaza
On behalf of Transportation and Parking Services and the Office of Sustainability Initiatives, you are invited to attend the annual Sustainable Transportation Fair. Come ride an ebike, talk to public transit providers like MARTA, learn about EV charging options, and check out the new vehicles you could use for a vanpool. You’ll also get information about upcoming events and all of the regional and Emory financial incentives available to Emory employees. FREE King of Pops for Transportation Fair attendees. More information available here.
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Center for Women: Community Building Night
Wednesday, September 17, 6:00-7:00 p.m., Cox Hall 328
Join us for an evening of connection, collaboration, and conversation. This gathering is an opportunity for student organizations with shared goals and interests to come together, exchange ideas, and strengthen a supportive campus network.
This is an open space where your voice matters. Let’s come together to uplift one another and spark new possibilities for collaboration and community.
RSVP here today to save your spot — we can’t wait to connect with you.
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Pastoral Leadership in a Time of Christian Nationalism
Public Lectures | September 24-25, 2025 | In person or online
In a time when Christian nationalism is gaining both cultural and political traction, the work of pastoral leadership requires renewed theological reflection, moral clarity, and prophetic courage. Candler is hosting this set of four public lectures to start conversations and offer resources to equip pastors and church leaders to respond faithfully to the challenges posed by this growing movement.
All lectures are free and open to the public in both in-person and virtual formats, with advance registration required. Learn more, and register, here.
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Planted, Rooted, and Anchored: Black Seminarians Day at Candler School of Theology
Thursday, October 9, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Candler School of Theology
This year's theme, "Planted, Rooted, and Anchored," will celebrate the Black Church tradition in historical and contemporary contexts.
Join us for a special campus tour highlighting Black excellence at Candler and Emory, ask questions of our world-renowned faculty during a class visit, and enjoy a worship service featuring preacher Rev. Dr. R. Janae Pitts-Murdock. Click here to register now.
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Year of Compassion
Compassion Shift Launch: September 30-October 1, 2025
The Year of Compassion is a yearlong celebration hosted by Emory College of Arts and Sciences, dedicated to empathy, healing, and human connection. This initiative invites faculty, staff, and students to explore how compassion is expressed through teaching, research, creative work, service, and daily interactions. Learn more here.
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Opportunities and Resources
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Wellbeing Coaching at Emory
Wellbeing Coaching is a free service for all undergraduate, graduate, and professional students at Emory University. Wellbeing Coaching is a good fit for students who would like to make changes in their lives through support, discussion, reflection, developing a plan, and taking action. Wellbeing Coaching is the collaboration between you and your coach to identify motivations, values, and strengths while creating a map for positive behavior change.
A Coach will work with you over a series of sessions to help you focus on achieving goals that are meaningful to you. Whether it’s being more active, improving your sleep, making social connections, or focusing on other areas of wellbeing, a Coach can help you build a plan to reach your wellbeing goals.
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Emory Recreation and Wellness: Welcome Back Newsletter
Whether you’re returning for another semester or joining us for the first time, we’re excited to have you as part of the Emory community. Our facilities, programs, and events are here to help you stay active, connect with others, and make the most of your time at Emory. From group fitness classes and intramural sports to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. Learn more here.
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Upcoming Religious Holidays
These events are drawn from the multifaith calendar maintained by the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life at Harvard Divinity School. To see more upcoming religious holidays and festivals, please click here.
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Feast of the Nativity of Theotokos
Mon., Sep. 8, 2025
Tradition: Orthodox Christianity
Celebrates the belief that Mary, mother of Jesus, was born without sin.
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Emory University Chaplaincy ENews is published weekly during term by the Emory University Chaplaincy, publicizing Atlanta-campus spiritual life programs. It is not a comprehensive listing. For Oxford College spiritual life, please click here. To submit information or to update your preferences, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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