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Congratulations Class of 2026
From all of us in the University Chaplaincy, your presence at Emory has been a joy and a gift and we hope you will stay in touch with us. May you go forth into the world in peace, be of good courage, hold on tight to that which is good, and may those to whom love is a stranger, find in you a friend. May you be blessed and be a blessing today and always.
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Attention Seniors: Baccalaureate Luncheon 2026
This Friday, May 8, 2026, 11:30 am-1:30 pm, Brooks Commons, Cannon Chapel
The Baccalaureate Luncheon is an opportunity for the Emory University Chaplaincy to honor graduating students who have been leaders in spiritual, religious, and interfaith life during their time at Emory and to reflect on and give thanks for their journeys as they become alumni.
A list of student awardees is invited and other graduates are welcome to join. Graduating Emory students are welcome. RSVP here.
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Emory Interfaith Center Study Hours
May 4-May 7 (Monday-Friday), 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Take a break, find a quiet space, and enjoy snacks, coffee, and tea as you study for finals. Wishing everyone well! For questions, email religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: Buddha Day Celebration
On Thursday, April 23, Emory Buddhist Life and Emory Buddhist Club hosted this year’s Buddha Day Celebration, which was a joyful and meaningful gathering of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends. The evening included reflections, chanting, meditation, and the traditional Babt Buddha bathing ritual. We were honored to hear from professors, student leaders, and spiritual guides who shared wisdom and inspiration. The event highlighted the values of peace, compassion, and community in a sacred space. We concluded the celebration with a shared vegan meal. The event was co-sponsored with the Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: Cannon Chapel Welcomes Middle East and North African Leaders Studying Peaceful Coexistence
On Friday, April 24, we were honored to host a delegation from the U.S .Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program visiting from Algeria, Iraq, and Morocco. These leaders in justice, interior, and education departments are studying governmental, academic, and community partnerships to promote peaceful coexistence. We presented about Emory’s on campus and community interfaith initiatives and shared Friday prayers and lunch together.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: MindfulEmory Student Retreat
On Friday, April 24, we hosted the first MindfulEmory student retreat in Cannon Chapel. The event featured: a welcome by Emory Buddhist Chaplain Venerable Priya Rakkhit Sraman; an opening compassion meditation by Compassion Center colleague Michelle Liberman; yoga led by Vidhi Tiwary C27; a bonsai workshop lead by the Office of Sustainability; a journaling workshop in the mandala garden; and finally a vegan lunch where participants were invited to share a silent mindful eating practice. Thank you to all who made this retreat possible and we look forward to providing similar opportunities in the future. For questions, contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: WISE Peer Mentors Planning Meeting
On Sunday, April 26, the WISE 2026 Peer Mentors held their first planning meeting for this year’s Pre-Orientation program. They, along with our whole office, are looking forward to providing a deep and fun-filled experience with lots of great food for incoming first years in August. Learn more about the program here.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: Student Worker Celebration
On Monday, April 27, the University Chaplaincy staff and student workers celebrated the end of the year together and honored graduating students Emily Kuhl, Kyria Santa, and Kio Whitten. It has been a great year, and we are so grateful for the hospitality, dedication, and fun that our student workers have contributed to our spaces and programs.
Interesting in applying to be a University Chaplaincy Student Worker? To receive an email when applications are live, sign up on the interest form here.
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: Rev. Maddie Herlong wins the Rev. Susan Henry Crowe Keeping the Faith Award
On Tuesday, April 28, Emory University’s Christian Chaplain, Rev. Maddie Herlong, received this year’s Rev. Susan Henry Crowe Keeping the Faith Award from the Emory Office of LGBT Life.
The Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe Keeping the Faith Award honors an individual, department, or organization that has made meaningful contributions toward a welcoming campus environment for queer people of faith. This award is named for our Dean of the Chapel and Religious Life Emerita, Rev. Susan Henry-Crowe.
"Maddie is a consistent and reliable ally to LGBTQ communities and has been unwavering in her commitment to thoughtfully organizing a Pride Sunday service to lift up LGBTQ experiences as part of the university's main weekly chapel service, Beloved Community Worship. She works to create a culture of inclusion in spiritual life on campus. In the face of challenges, she remains steadfast in her commitment to openness, inclusion, and affirmation to bridge the gaps between faith and LGBTQ communities."
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Emory University Chaplaincy Recap: Kio Whitten Receives Student Worker Award
The University Chaplaincy nominated Kio Whitten for the Social Impact and Belonging category of Student Employee of the Year Award, and they were selected as the winner for that category. Kio’s nomination highlighted the impact they have made on the Emory community during their employment with us, especially through both their dedication to the WISE Pre-Orientation program and supporting weekly international student lunch, Muslim Jumu'ah prayers and lunch, and Hindu Aarthi and dinner during their long shifts on Fridays in Cannon Chapel. Kio’s work ethic, hospitality, and thoughtfulness have made every event better-run and more welcoming, for which we are immensely grateful. Congratulations, Kio!
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WISE Candler Graduate Student Assistant 2026: Welcome Kenyah Farley
Reporting to the University Chaplaincy Program Coordinator, the WISE Graduate Assistant provides staffing support for the WISE program, including assisting with the recruitment/selection of undergraduate peer mentors for the program, supporting all peer mentor meetings and trainings, assisting with recruitment efforts for first-year participants, and providing staffing support for the program in August.
Kenyah Farley is a Master of Divinity student at Emory's Candler School of Theology, where she is preparing for a vocation in chaplaincy and community-based ministry. She also serves as a Regional Manager for Community Programs with the National MS Society, working to build programs and partnerships that support people affected by multiple sclerosis. Outside of work and school, Kenyah enjoys running, nannying, and spending time with her family.
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Welcoming Interfaith and Spiritual Exploration Pre-Orientation 2026
Program Dates: August 17-21, 2026
Registration for incoming First-Year Students Opens: May 13, 2026
Imagine your first Emory campus experience being filled with community, good food, and deep conversations while experiencing an array of beautiful and welcoming religious communities across campus and Atlanta. These twelve students are preparing to facilitate and welcome up to 40 fortunate incoming students through the WISE (Welcoming Interfaith and Spiritual Exploration) Pre-Orientation program.
Meet these WISE Peer Mentors here. Learn more about the WISE program here.Incoming students register here beginning May 13, 2026.
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Student Conference Invite: Interfaith America Leadership Summit August 2026
Friday, August 7 - Sunday, August 9, 2026, Chicago, Illinois
Emory University Chaplaincy Application deadline: Tuesday, May 12, 11:59 p.m.
The Interfaith America Leadership Summit is the nation’s largest annual gathering of college students and educators committed to interfaith engagement—where you’ll gain skills, inspiration, and lasting connections to bridge divides and build a more unified society.
Our office is planning to bring a small group of students covering:
Paid Registration Fee and Conference Meals
Airfare to and from Chicago
Two nights in a shared room at Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk (the conference hotel)
This opportunity is for undergraduate students who will be on the Emory Atlanta campus for the Fall 2026 semester as sophomores and juniors.
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Faculty Call for Proposals: Journeys of Reconciliation Program 2027
Rolling submissions accepted through July 1, 2026
We are seeking proposals from a faculty member to co-lead a 10-day domestic or international learning trip that aligns with the goals of the Journeys program. 2027 dates are May 10-21, 2027.
Journeys is an interfaith travel learning program designed to help students cultivate meaning and purpose in their lives and connect their spiritual and ethical convictions with issues of justice, peace, civil and human rights, and environmentalism. Each trip involves at least 1 Emory faculty member and 2 Emory chaplaincy staff, plus 12 Emory student participants—who are undergraduate and graduate students of many faiths and backgrounds.
Emory University faculty members are encouraged to propose a travel learning experience that would allow them to engage with chaplains and students on important issues in communities and settings around the globe. Past journeys have traveled to: Ireland/Northern Ireland, South Africa, the Middle East, the Balkans, South Asia, Cuba, the US-Mexico border, Oklahoma, Central Asia, and more.
View this document for more information about the opportunity and the call for proposals.
With questions, or to discuss possible trip proposals, please contact the Emory University Dean of Religious Life, The Rev. Dr. Gregory W. McGonigle, at gregory.mcgonigle@emory.edu.
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Upcoming Spiritual Life Programs
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Muslim Jumu'ah Prayers
Fridays Year Round, Prayers 1:55 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join Emory Muslim Life for Friday Prayers every week. Join the Muslim Life elist here.
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Jewish Affiliated Organizations
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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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Chabad at Emory
Shabbat Dinner
Friday, May 8, 7:30 p.m services, 8:00 p.m. dinner, Chabad House
To RSVP, text "Congrats" to 404-999-7787.
Open House
Sunday, May 10, 3:00-5:00 p.m., Chabad House
To RSVP, text "Congrats" to 404-999-7787.
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Christian Affiliated Organizations
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Glenn Memorial United Methodist Church: Sunday Worship Services
Sundays, 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., Glenn Memorial Church
Glenn Memorial UMC invites you to worship with us. A short walk to the front gate 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.
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University Catholic Center: Weekly Offerings
- Sunday - Catholic Mass, 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Cannon Chapel
- Tuesday - Catholic Eucharistic Adoration, 5:00 p.m., University Catholic Center, 1753 N Decatur Rd
- Wednesday - Catholic Mass, 5:00 p.m., University Catholic Center, 1753 N Decatur Rd
- Friday - Catholic Mass, 5:00 p.m., University Catholic Center, 1753 N Decatur Rd
We also have the Rosary being prayed as a group on:
- Monday/Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. on the Quad
- Tuesday/Thursday at 1:00 p.m. on the Quad
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Fireside Chat with Lobsang Tenzin Negi
Tuesday, May 5, 5:30-7:00 p.m., Ackerman Hall, Michael C. Carlos Museum
We invite you to join us for an engaging and thought-provoking fireside chat with Lobsang Tenzin Negi, Executive Director of the Emory Compassion Center, in conversation about his forthcoming book, Engaged Compassion: Seven Practices to Cultivate Resilience, Connection, and a Joyous Life. At a time when burnout, social fragmentation, and declining wellbeing are increasingly recognized as urgent challenges, new interdisciplinary approaches are emerging to better understand and cultivate the conditions for human flourishing.
Drawing on decades of scholarship and collaboration with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dr. Negi bridges contemplative wisdom and modern science to illuminate compassion as a powerful, trainable skill. Grounded in CBCT® (Cognitively Based Compassion Training), Engaged Compassion offers a clear pathway to greater emotional resilience, deeper connection, and enhanced wellbeing.
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Opportunities and Resources
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North America-Turtle Island Regional Ecumenical Theological Institute: Information Session
Wednesday, May 6, 3:00 p.m., Online
The National Council of Churches USA and Canadian Council of Churches are collaborating to host the North America-Turtle Island Regional Ecumenical Theological Institute in Detroit and Toronto from August 3 through 16, 2026. The immersive experience is designed to familiarize students (including advanced undergraduates) and young adults with various expressions of ecumenism in North America. Accepted students can also earn graduate credit through the Toronto School of Theology which can be applied as transfer credit to a degree at their home institution.
An info session will take place on Wednesday, May 6, at 3pm Eastern. To register for the info session, visit here.
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Faiths United to Save Democracy: Faith in Action at the Polls
Mondays, July 13, September 28, 7:00 - 8:15 p.m.
Faiths United to Save Democracy invites faith leaders to sign up for a virtual Poll Chaplain/Peacekeeper, "Know Your Rights," and De-escalation Training training. Poll Chaplains and Peacekeepers can help provide a calm, moral climate for citizens to exercise their sacred right to vote and de-escalate potential conflicts that hinder voting.
Poll Chaplains/Peacekeepers serve in AZ, GA, MI, NC, OH, PA, TX, VA, and WI.
You can sign up here if you are interested.
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Pathways Center: Internship Funding
Deadline: Monday, May 4, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Emory's Pathways Center offers funding for summer internships. Funding can be up to $3000 for a domestic internship and $4000 for a global internship. Apply here by May 4 at 9:00 a.m. to be considered for funding.
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Love as a Force for Social Change
Application Deadline: May 4, 2026
Submit a Manuscript to the Journal of College and Character: Special issue on Love as a Force for Social Change
From disturbingly cheerful predictions about the demise of higher education to rhetoric casting professors as adversaries, postsecondary institutions face a steady stream of criticism and hostility. This negativity demoralizes us at times, yet those of us who work on college campuses often describe our vocation as a labor of love. We know of faculty inviting international students to their homes when they have no place to go over breaks, residence hall directors spending nights in hospitals with students facing injury or illness, student activists risking expulsion and arrest standing up for oppressed communities. These stories (and so many more) exemplify the beloved community, a term first used by philosopher, Josiah Royce, then popularized by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to describe people working together interdependently toward a vision of compassion, peace, and recognition of the inherent worth of all living beings.
In this special issue, we seek your stories of universities as beloved communities. To be sure, higher education falls short of this idea in many ways. But those shortcomings are already well-documented, hence our desire to offer a counternarrative.
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Eagle Food Pantry and Donations
The Eagle Food Pantry is a free food pantry for Emory University Students housed at Bread Coffeehouse. We are open Fridays from 9 am-5 pm during the semester and can be found at 1227 Clifton Rd. Students can visit the pantry as many times as needed and there is no food limit.
Donations can be made through our Amazon wishlist, our website, or dropped off at Bread Monday-Thursday 12-5 pm. Our most desired items are pasta, pasta sauce, oatmeal packets, peanut butter, jelly, granola bars, fruit cups, canned beans, canned veggies, and canned soup. For questions, please email eaglefoodpantry@breadcoffeehouse.org.
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Religious Accommodations: List of Major Religious Holidays 2025-26
Emory OSRL seeks to provide guidance for the Emory community regarding upcoming religious holiday observances that may impact the community by providing a list of major religious holidays observed by sizeable religious demographic groups within the Emory community. These are provided in order to assist community members with avoiding potential schedule conflicts. For more information, please click here. For questions, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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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.
Ascension of Jesus
Thu., May 14, 2026
Tradition: Christianity-Protestant, Christianity-Roman Catholic
The celebration of Jesus’ ascension into heaven and enthronement as universal sovereign. It comes 40 days after Easter. The date observed by Protestants and Roman Catholics is different from the date observed by Orthodox Christians.
Ascension of Jesus
Thu., May 21, 2026
Tradition: Christianity-Orthodox
The celebration of Jesus’ ascension into heaven and enthronement as universal sovereign. It comes 40 days after Easter. The date observed by Protestants and Roman Catholics is different from the date observed by Orthodox Christians.
Shavuot
Thu., May 21 – Sat., May 23, 2026
Tradition: Judaism
Shavuot marks the conclusion of the seven weeks following Passover. It is a celebration of the harvest of first fruits and commemorates the giving of the Torah and Commandments at Mount Sinai.
Declaration of the Bab
Sun., May 24, 2026
Tradition: Baha'i
Commemorates the day in 1844 on which he announced his identity as the Bab (“Gate”), the herald of the new age.
Pentecost
Sun., May 24, 2026
Tradition: Christianity-Protestant, Christianity-Roman Catholic
The commemoration of the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus following his ascension, Pentecost is considered the “birthday” of the Christian church (Acts 2:1–11). It comes 50 days after Easter (Pascha, Orthodox Easter). Roman Catholic and Protestant Christians observe Pentecost on a different date from Orthodox Christians.
Day of Arafah
Mon., May 25, 2026
Tradition: Islam
Eid al Adha (‘Id al Adha)
Tue., May 26 – Wed., May 27, 2026
Tradition: Islam
One of the two main Islamic festivals (with Eid al-Fitr), this festival falls on the 10th day of the lunar month of Zul-Hijja and is the concluding act of pilgrimage to Mecca. In commemoration of Abraham’s faith, sheep, goats, and camels are offered to God, and the meat is distributed to the poor and needy. Eid al-Adha is observed whether or not one is on pilgrimage.
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Emory University Chaplaincy E-news 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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