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News and Programs 1.30.25
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Journeys of Reconciliation: Uzbekistan, May 2025
Monday, May 12 - Friday, May 23, 2025, Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva
Uzbekistan, one of the former Soviet countries along the ancient Silk Road, has opened to the world. The Emory University Chaplaincy and the Emory Purpose Project will for the first time launch an interfaith reflective educational journey to this country. Emory undergraduate and graduate students will explore the rich culture of this land by visiting religious institutions such as mosques, synagogues, and churches, and learn from leaders on the ground who are working to advance intercultural cooperation and peacemaking. Cosponsored by the Candler School of Theology.
In-country costs will be free for students; students only need to arrange their international airfare. To learn more and apply, please visit: https://religiouslife.emory.edu/programs/journeys-new.html. Applications are due Thursday, February 6, 2025. For questions, please contact Emory University Muslim Chaplain Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov at rahimjon.abdugafurov@emory.edu.
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WISE Interfaith Pre-Orientation: Peer Mentor Applications Open Now for Undergraduate Students
Application Deadline: Sunday, February 9, 2025
Interested in engaging with diverse spiritual traditions? Looking to have deep conversations and build strong connections? Apply to be a WISE Peer Mentor and guide first-year students in a five-day interfaith pre-orientation program designed to build deep community and engage with a multitude of spiritual communities at Emory and in Atlanta. We welcome applications from all religious, non-religious, spiritual, and ethical identities.
Peer Mentors receive a $600 stipend, enjoy free delicious meals, and early move-in.
During the program, participants will:
- Explore Atlanta and the Emory campus through visits to vibrant religious and philosophical
communities and service and social justice organizations - Grow your religious and philosophical literacy skills by experiencing different spiritual practices and meeting leaders from different backgrounds
- Build leadership skills through workshops and small-group discussions
- Connect with other students and build long-lasting friendships
- Enjoy fun activities such as outdoor barbeques, campus scavenger hunts, and more
Program commitment dates: August 13-22, 2024
A more robust job description can be found on the application here.
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Black Buddhist Teacher Series
Thursdays During February, 6:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel Sanctuary
Join the Emory University Chaplaincy for a Black Buddhist Teacher Series, a special edition of Emory Buddhist Club’s weekly guided meditation on Thursdays at 6 pm in Cannon Chapel. Guest teachers include Lama Rod Owens, Dr. Jan Willis, and Dr. Larry Ward. Celebrate the voices, teachings, and wisdom of Black Buddhist scholars, practitioners, and activists. This program explores the rich diversity within Buddhism, highlighting how Black communities adapt and engage with Buddhist practices while addressing pressing social and cultural issues. By amplifying Black voices, it seeks to foster community, inspire dialogue on spirituality, identity, and justice, and expand awareness of diversity within the tradition. Join us for an enriching and thought-provoking experience—open to all students, faculty, and staff. For questions, please contact psraman@emory.edu.
Our first session on February 6 features Lama Rod Owens and will go as follows:
Yoga: 5:15 – 5:45 p.m.
Meditation and Discussion: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Q and A: 7:00 – 7:15 p.m.
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Recap: International Holocaust Remembrance Day Lecture with George Rishfeld
On Monday, January 27, 175 students, faculty, and staff gathered in Ackerman Hall to hear Holocaust survivor George Rishfeld share his personal story on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Students across faith backgrounds were moved by his experience as a young child attempting to understand and navigate the Holocaust unfolding around him and his family. The program was enriched by the words of two Emory students, Paige Scanlon and Agus Zelikson, who traveled to Poland over the last year to better understand the legacy of the Holocaust. The program was co-sponsored by Chabad, Hillel, Meor, the Tam Institute for Jewish Studies, and Emory’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
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Recap: University Chaplaincy Tables at Spring Student Involvement Fair
Many thanks to all who stopped by our table at the Spring Student Involvement Fair on Tuesday, January 28, as well as to our awesome student workers who staffed the table alongside Muslim Chaplain Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov. If you are looking to get involved this spring, please reach out.
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Midweek Musical Meditation
Wednesdays during term starting January 22, 12:00-12:15 pm, Zoom or Facebook Live
All are invited to reflect and decompress in a mid-week, mid-day time of sacred music. Join Maury Allums, Director of Music, and the Emory University Office of Spiritual and Religious Life in taking a moment to breathe and connect with others in our community.
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Midweek Musical Meditation 1.29.25
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Glenn Memorial Church and Theodicy Jazz Collective Present "Love Is the Way: A Freedom Suite"
Saturday, February 1, 7:00 p.m., Glenn Memorial Church Sanctuary
Join the award-winning Theodicy Jazz Collective and Glenn Memorial UMC Chancel Choir for an exciting collaboration featuring the newly premiered "Love Is the Way: A Freedom Suite" - a set of 9 freshly-arranged freedom songs from different cultural and faith traditions. The Theodicy Jazz Collective will kick off the concert with a set of original tunes from a variety of genres and styles. The Theodicy Jazz Collective was formed at Oberlin Conservatory and grew during residency at the Yale Institute of Sacred Music from 2008 to 2012. The band creates and leads services for a multitude of churches and cathedrals and offers lectures and workshops at high schools and colleges. Glenn’s Chancel Choir is known for its ability to perform a wide variety of music at a high level and collaborates with multiple Atlanta arts organizations including the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra and the Atlanta Baroque Orchestra. The concert is free and open to the public.
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Making Meaning: Conversation Series on Spirituality and Mental Health with the University Chaplaincy and CAPS
Mondays, February 10 - March 3, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center
Come join us for a 4-week series to learn with others how spirituality and mental health impact each other. Facilitated by Emory’s Counseling and Psychological Services and Office of Spiritual and Religious Life. Limited to 10 undergraduate students. People of all spiritual, humanist, religious, and worldview traditions are welcomed. For more information, please email Dr. Alexandra Scott at alexandra.j.scott@emory.edu or Ven. Priya Sraman at psraman@emory.edu. To register, please click here.
Note: This is an educational and community-building discussion series, not a therapy or treatment group. We will ask for your anonymous feedback about this series as part of your participation, to explore its value for students and others.
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International Community Friday Lunch
Fridays starting January 24, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Brooks Commons, Cannon Chapel
International Community Friday Lunch (ICFL) is a long-standing collaboration between the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life (OSRL) and International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS).
This gathering extends a warm welcome and builds community for international students and scholars over a free lunch. Attendees will also meet sponsors who will share helpful campus resources. Meals are limited in number and food is served on a first-come, first-served basis. For questions, please contact RJOHN40@emory.edu or religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Soul Food Gospel Fest 2025
Sunday, February 16, 3:00-5:00 p.m., Emory Student Center Multipurpose Rooms
Soul Food Gospel Fest is an annual concert hosted by the Voices of Inner Strength Gospel Choir that brings together various choirs and groups in the community and to celebrate the love of God and Jesus during Black History Month. There will be music from various choirs across the state, prayers, liturgical dance, and spoken word. Soul food and refreshments will be served.
Co-sponsored by the Emory University Chaplaincy, Emory Belonging and Community Justice, Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and the Office of the Provost. RSVP here.
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Muslim Jumu'ah Prayers
Fridays, 1:55 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join us for Friday Prayers followed by a hot halal Ummah lunch during term in Brooks Commons. Join the Emory Muslim Life elist here.
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Hindu Aarti
Fridays during Term, 5:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join Emory's Hindu Chaplaincy and the Hindu Students Association for weekly Aarti prayers and community.
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Hillel at Emory: Shabbat
Fridays during Term, Services 6:30 p.m., Dinner, 7:00 p.m., Marcus Hillel Center, 735 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30322
Join Hillel at Emory for Shabbat services and dinner. RSVP here. Sponsored by Hillel at Emory.
Chabad at Emory: Shabbat
Fridays during Term, services 6:30 p.m., Dinner 7:00 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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University Catholic Center: Sunday Masses
Sundays, 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join us for Sunday Masses on campus.
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Beloved Community Christian Worship and Free Lunch
Sundays during Term Starting January 19, 11:00 a.m. Service; Noon Lunch, Cannon Chapel
Emory Beloved Community is a weekly ecumenical Protestant worship service for the campus community, held in Cannon Chapel and followed by a free lunch. All Emory students, faculty and staff are welcome. For questions, please contact Christian Chaplain Rev. Maddie Herlong at mhend25@emory.edu.
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Buddhist Guided Meditation
Thursdays during Term Starting January 16, 6:00-7:15 p.m., Cannon Chapel and Zoom
Join us for Buddhist meditation this Thursday at 6:00 p.m. You may also come early starting at 5:15 p.m. for a period of community and snacking while we prepare for the meditation session at 6:00 p.m. Please feel free to enjoy the provided snacks and tea before and/or after the session. You are welcome to stay after to continue discussion. Zoom option: https://emory.zoom.us/j/515025945.
For questions, please contact: Buddhist Chaplain Ven. Priya Rakkhit Sraman, psraman@emory.edu.
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Quaker Silent Worship
Wednesdays during term, 6:30 p.m., Cannon Chapel Room 106
Emory students, faculty and staff are welcome to a meeting for silent worship in the manner of Friends. You may join in the spirit of worship, or simply to share in mindful quiet. Refreshments will be provided. For more information, please contact Derek Harootune Otis, derek.harootune.otis@emory.edu, (they/them).
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Flourishing Fellows: Community Supper
February 8, 6:00 p.m., Interfaith Center (1707 North Decatur Road)
Join us for a family-style, sit-down dinner on February 8 from 6 to 8:00 p.m. at the Interfaith Center, 1707 N Decatur Rd. The theme will be "Open Heart, Open Mind." We encourage you to bring something—a story, song, poem, item, or real-world example—that represents what this theme means to you.
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Emory Orthodox Christian Fellowship Spring Speaker Series
Thursday January 30, February 6, February 27, 7:00 p.m., AMUC Harland Cinema
Orthodox Christian Fellowship invites you to our three-part lecture series exploring a powerful and perhaps unexpected topic: perceptions of death. Trust us, it's a profoundly enriching area of Christian theological thought. This series sees death in ways that are enlightening, thought-provoking, and even uplifting.
We've invited three distinguished scholars, priests, and monks to share their rich insights. Each lecture will be followed by fellowship and discussion over refreshments. For more details, click here–and feel free to join our mailing list here so you don't miss out. For questions, please contact Samuel Salameh at samuel.salameh@emory.edu.
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Emory Orthodox Christian Fellowship Faith and Falafel
Every Wednesday during term, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m., Cannon Chapel Room 314
Come for the falafel, stay for the conversation. Join us every Wednesday night from 7:30-8:30 pm 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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Graduate Christian Fellowship: PhD Student Dinner
Friday, January 31, 7:00-9:00 p.m., Glenn Goldsmith's Home
We know that PhD students have a particular need for community, as extended research time can feel isolating. If you’re in a PhD program, please join us for a special fellowship meal. Email Glenn Goldsmith to RSVP: glenn.goldsmith@intervarsity.org
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Emory Hillel Jewish Learning Fellowship
The Jewish Learning Fellowship (JLF) is an 8-week, cohort experience for students looking to deepen their understanding of Judaism on their own terms, and willing to ask big questions about themselves and their community. You'll create new relationships with other Emory students, connect to your Judaism, and earn $250 upon completion of the course.
The cohort will begin the second week of February.
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Emory Muslim Students Association Upcoming Events
On February 15, the Emory MSA is partnering with Islamic Relief USA and multiple metro Atlanta universities and the broader Atlanta community to help combat hunger by assembling meals for our neighbors in need. Find more information and an RSVP form here.
On February 16, Emory MSA is hosting two events at the Campus Life Pavillion: a Sisters Brunch and a Brothers BBQ. The brunch will be a coquette-themed, sisters-only brunch. Women of any and all faiths are welcome to join for an afternoon of fruits, cupcakes, flower crowns, and more.
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Mindfulness Circle at Interfaith Center
Mondays starting January 27, 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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Buddhist Worship
Tuesdays during Term Starting January 28, 1:00 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center Shrine Room, 1707 N Decatur Road
Welcome to the weekly Buddhist worship service where we recite traditional Buddhist chants/texts. We will gather in the Shrine Room of the Emory Interfaith Center for contemplation, worship, and discussion if there is any question regarding the practice/chant/text.
Chants/texts in Pali and English will be available. If you prefer a text in a different language (e.g. Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese, etc.) please reach out to Buddhist Chaplain Venerable Priya Sraman in advance. No prior Buddhist background is required to attend and we welcome all Emory students interested in learning more about Buddhism or connecting with the Buddhist community. For questions, please contact Emory Buddhist Chaplain Venerable Priya Sraman at psraman@emory.edu.
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Beloved Community Bible Study
Tuesdays, Starting January 21, 6:00 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
For questions, please contact Christian Chaplain Rev. Maddie Herlong at mhend25@emory.edu.
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Muslim Life Weekly Halaqa and Dinner
Wednesdays, Beginning January 29, 6:30 - 7:45 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
All Emory students are invited to join us for an Islamic text study on different topics each week. Dinner will be provided.
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James Weldon Johnson Race and Difference Colloquium Series, 2024-2025
Mondays at 12:00 p.m., Jones Room, Woodruff Library, 3rd Floor
The Race and Difference Colloquium Series, a weekly event on the Emory University campus, features local and national speakers presenting academic research on contemporary questions of race and intersecting dimensions of difference. The James Weldon Johnson Institute is pleased to have the Robert W. Woodruff Library and the Stuart A. Rose Manuscript and Rare Book Library as major co-sponsors of the Colloquium Series. Presentations occur every Monday from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Jones Room of the Robert W. Woodruff Library. Lunch is provided and an RSVP is requested. Click here to RSVP or here for more information about the Colloquium Series.
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Opportunities and Resources
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Student Interfaith Conference Opportunity
Fall 2025
Dean of Religious Life Rev. Dr. Gregory McGonigle will be leading a group of students to attend and participate in the "Interfaith at Faith-based Universities" conference at Brigham Young University in Utah in Fall 2025. Students who are interested in developing and presenting research about interfaith studies or interfaith engagement or case studies of interfaith work are encouraged to contact Dean McGonigle for sponsorship to attend the conference. Travel scholarships are available. For more information, please contact greg.mcgonigle@emory.edu.
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United Methodist Church Reconciling Ministries Network Young Adult Open House
Sunday, February 2, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Oakview Coffee, 707 East Lake Drive
All LGBTQ-identifying young adults are invited to drop by, meet an RMN board member, and share any thoughts about ways RMN can show up for young, queer United Methodists.
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Emerging Dreamers Program
Applications due February 14, 2025
The Atlanta Dream, in partnership with the King Center, invite college students in the Atlanta area to participate in the 2025 cohort of the “Emerging Dreamers: A Roundtable Conversation Focused on Transforming the Culture” program.
This immersive program will give students the opportunity to complete The King Center's Nonviolence365 Masterclass virtual training. The training helps students engage in the concepts of transforming culture and mobilizing student peer groups to address issues of social justice. and inequality. Students will also have the unique opportunity to earn volunteer hours at The King Center, participate in interactive workshops at the Atlanta Dream headquarters and will be invited to attend an Atlanta Dream home game! At the conclusion of the program, the students will also participate in a social justice roundtable discussion, in a conversation with Dr. Bernice King. The roundtable discussion, hosted at the King Center, will be open to the public and will give the students the opportunity to offer their insights and perspectives on mobilizing for change.
The application is available here.
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Emory Center for Contemplative Science and Compassion-Based Ethics: Cognitively-Based Compassion Training Foundation Course
Part 1: Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. EST
Part 2: Saturday and Sunday, March 22 and 23, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. EST
The Spring CBCT® Foundation Course is now open for enrollment, and this is the perfect opportunity to discover the benefits of this research-based approach to compassion training. Scan the QR code or visit the link here to enroll today.
Deadline to Register: February 15, 2025
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Eagle Food Pantry: A Free Food Pantry for Emory Students
Open: Fridays, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., Bread Coffeehouse, 1227 Clifton Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Bread Coffeehouse offers a free food pantry for students at Emory who are in need. If you have any questions or would like to donate any items to the food pantry, please email: eaglefoodpantry@breadcoffeehouse.org.
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Weekly Gatherings
There are a plethora of weekly religious and philosophical gatherings offered at Emory. Many of them are listed here and at the button below.
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Religious Accommodations: Major Holidays List for 2024-2025
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As planning continues for the 2024-25 academic year, the Emory University Chaplaincy seeks to provide support regarding upcoming religious holidays that may impact large numbers in our university community. These dates are provided to assist the community with avoiding potential schedule conflicts. Please pay special attention to the bolded holidays, as they often require accommodations in our community. For a list of major religious holidays observed by larger religious demographic groups at Emory, please click here. For questions, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
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Upcoming Religious Holidays
The holidays we highlight are drawn from the multifaith calendar maintained by Harvard Divinity School. To see more upcoming religious holidays and festivals, please click here.
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Emory University Chaplaincy ENews is published weekly during term 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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