Bodhi Day, Christmas Party, Pre-Chanukah
Bodhi Day, Christmas Party, Pre-Chanukah
 
News and Programs 11.22.24
BODHI DAY FALL 2024
Emory Bodhi Day
Thursday, December 5, 6:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Bodhi Day is celebrated in the Mahayana Tradition of Buddhism to commemorate the enlightenment of Shakyamuni Gautama Buddha. The Emory Buddhist community will gather to celebrate this occasion with spiritual reflection, contemplation and gratitude. Vegetarian dinner will follow the spiritual practice. RSVP here. Co-sponsored by Emory University Chaplaincy and Emory Buddhist Club. 
Save the Date: Emory Pre-Chanukah Celebration
Thursday, December 5, 5:00 p.m., Emory Kaldi's, Emory Student Center
Welcome Pre-Chanukah at our fourth annual “Chanu-Kaldi’s.”’ Jelly doughnuts, latkes, Kaldi’s drink tokens, and more. Emory community members welcome. 
RSVP not required but is helpful for food ordering here
For questions, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
Christian Life Christmas Party
Emory Christmas Party
Saturday, December 8, 6:30-8:00 pm, Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Join us for a festive evening of ornament decorating, music, food, and fun to celebrate the Christmas season. We hope this night of ecumenical engagement will be a nice break from the stress of finals. RSVP In the hub here. For questions, please email Rev. Maddie Herlong at mhend25@emory.edu
Sponsored by the Emory University Chaplaincy and our Christian Religious Life Affiliates. 
Celebrate the Winter Holidays on Emory's Atlanta Campus
The Emory community will celebrate winter holidays in the coming weeks with music, art and special spiritual events. For a list of programming on the Atlanta campus, please click here.
This list will continue to be updated.
For questions, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
Emory University Chaplaincy Student Worker Spotlights
Julian Beck
Julian Beck (he/him) is from Marietta, GA, and is an Emory first year planning to graduate Spring 2028. He is working towards a major in Biology and a minor in Dance. While at Emory, he has been involved as a member of  Voices of Inner Strength Gospel Choir, BAM (Brotherhood of Afrocentic Men), Society of Physics Students, and All Black Emory. What Julian likes best about working at OSRL is “The people and environment! It’s so calm and refreshing, everyone is so welcoming and eager to provide a helping hand and have engaging conversations! I also love the abundance of snacks and food that are available when I get hungry. :)” His current super power is infinite napping, but the gift he’d like to have is to make plants flower. When not working or studying, you might find him exploring the campus and city and going on trails, or eating blueberry muffins.
Kio Whitten
Kio Whitten (they/them) is from Atlanta, and is an Emory junior planning to graduate Spring 2026. They are working towards a Biology Major, ENVS Minor. While at Emory, they have been involved by being on two dance teams: Alas De Un Mismo Pájaro and Vibez, and in the Emory Buddhist Club. What Kio likes best about working at OSRL is “Talking with the chaplains and the free food.” Their current super power is being able to learn choreos in 30 mins-1hr, but the gift they’d like to have is the power from everything everywhere all at once but without the trauma. When not working or studying, you might find them listening to music or eating a chocolate brownie with vanilla ice cream. 
Emory Student Interns with Interfaith Atlanta
Emory Inter-Religious Council Representative Matthea Boon C25
“Sophomore year, as I continued to look for ways to broaden my understanding of religious traditions, I jumped at the opportunity to join Emory’s Inter-Religious Council which, I am happy to say, has become a transformative part of my Emory experience. I love the opportunity to share about my faith, learn from others in a discussion context, and bring the information I learn back to my Catholic community on campus. In fact, it was in the group chat for this organization that I learned of Interfaith Atlanta and was informed about this internship opportunity that has allowed me to more deeply engage in diverse perspectives. So much more could be said about the immense positivity that interfaith work, and Interfaith Atlanta more specifically, has brought to my life and the Atlanta community, focusing on promoting unity and respect in a time of division and tension.” Read the full blog post here 
Midweek Musical Mediation
Midweek Musical Meditation
Wednesdays during term, 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.
Register on Zoom or follow on our Facebook Live.
Midweek Musical Meditation - 11.20.24
Upcoming Programs
International Community Friday Lunch
Fridays during term, 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.
ICFL occurs on Fridays from 11:30 am-12:30 pm in Cannon Chapel Brooks Commons. Meals are limited in number and served on a first-come, first-serve basis. Learn more here
November 22 Lunch Host: Office of the Provost
Muslim Jumu'ah Prayers
Fridays during term, 1:55 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join us for Friday Prayers followed by a hot halal lunch in Brooks Commons. Join the Emory Muslim Life elist here. For questions, please contact Muslim Chaplain Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov
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. This week, Emory HSA will host a gratitude-based meditation. 
Contact: Emory Hindu Chaplain Pandit Rajeev Persaud at rajeev.persaud@emory.edu.  
Shabbat
Hillel at Emory: Shabbat
Fridays, 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 Services and Dinner
Fridays, 6:30 p.m. services, 7:00 p.m. dinner, 1500 N Decatur Rd, 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
InterVarsity Thanksgiving Dinner
Saturday, November 23, First Alliance Church of Atlanta
Thanksgiving is coming. If you want to be a part of our amazing Thanksgiving dinner and fellowship please sign up here
Limit to 150 people and up to date is 140 available spots (your spot is secured only when we receive your $10 Deposit and you will receive your $10 back when you show up at the dinner.  
University Catholic Center: Sunday Masses
Sundays during term, 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join us for Sunday Masses on-campus.
Contact: Catholic Religious Life Affiliate Michael Zauche, michael@emorycatholic.org.
Beloved Community
Beloved Community Christian Worship
Sundays during term, 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 are welcome. All Emory students, staff, and faculty welcome. Contact: Christian Chaplain Rev. Maddie Herlong, mhend25@emory.edu.
Sunday November 24 Preacher: The Rev. Maddie Herlong
Collegiate Black Christians: Church and Brunch
Sunday, November 24, 9:00 a.m., Blueprint Church
Join us for Church and Brunch on Nov 24.
Worship, food, and fellowship—don’t miss this perfect way to recharge.
Rides provided! Sign up by Nov 20th—spots are limited. RSVP here 
Service Opportunity: Emory Graduation Generation: Tools for Tomorrow
Tuesday, December 3, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Emory Student Center MPR 3
Join us for our GBM on December 3 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Activities will include school supply packing and letter writing.
All proceeds will be donated to local elementary schools. Food will be provided, so come hungry! You’re welcome to stay for the whole event or just as long as you can. Looking forward to seeing you all there! 
Link to RSVP
Emory In Via: Dinner Party 
Tuesday, December 3, 6:00 p.m., Cannon Chapel 314
We are hosting an end-of-the-year dinner party to celebrate another semester of creating. All are welcome, and plus ones are encouraged, as writers will share their pieces and the team will share more about what In Via does. We will be providing dinner and atmosphere. 
The RSVP form is in our bio, or you can scan the QR code. Please fill it out by November 28. Learn more here
First Friday Din
Emory Graduate Christian Fellowship: First Friday
Friday, December 6, 7:00-9:00 pm., InterVarsity RLA Glenn Goldsmith's House (1226 Forrest Blvd)
A little different from other first Fridays, this dinner will be hosted at Glenn’s house. In the past, we’ve done white elephant gift exchanges and caroling to celebrate the Christmas season. You don’t want to miss it! Rides are available if needed. RSVP here
Interfaith Atlanta: Interfaith Winter Lights
Saturday, December 14, 4:00 pm, Cannon Chapel
Please join Interfaith Atlanta for a campus and community celebration of light through poetry, stories, and song. Interfaith Atlanta's second annual Interfaith Winter Lights event will be held on Saturday, December 14 at 4 pm at Emory University’s Cannon Chapel followed by holiday refreshments. For more information, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu.
 
Prayer and Study Groups
Orthodox Christian Fellowship: Weekly Events
Join OCF at one of our weekly events. Looking for fellowship? Come meet our community each Wednesday at Faith and Falafel. We have free falafel sandwiches and an insightful spiritual discussion (RSVP Here)
Looking for worship? We have prayer services every Monday and Tuesday during term. Looking to learn more? Save the date for our Friday Bible Studies.
For questions, please contact Orthodox Affiliate Jacob Sparks.
Buddhist Worship
Buddhist Life Buddhist Worship 
Tuesdays during term, 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 at psraman@emory.edu. 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.
Beloved Community Bible Study
Tuesdays during term, 6:00 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center Student Lounge


Beloved Community Bible Study will study the Book of Numbers for the remainder of the semester. If you’ve ever thought, “Numbers is too confusing” or “Numbers is boring and doesn’t relate to me today,” this study is for you. Join us weekly for a thematic study of Numbers as we engage with this rich Biblical text. 
To learn more, please email Emory Christian Chaplain, The Rev. Maddie Herlong at mhend25@emory.edu.
Muslim Life Weekly Halaqa and Dinner 
Wednesdays during term, 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. No previous attendance required. 
For more information or to suggest a topic, please contact Emory Muslim Chaplain Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov at rahimjon.abdugafurov@emory.edu.
Emory Christian Fellowship: Bible Study
Bible Study:
Thursdays, 7:30-9 pm., Cannon Chapel Room 105D
Join Emory Christian Fellowship for Bible Study. Learn more here
Reformed University Fellowship: Small Group Bible Study
We are starting Small Groups. Want to be in one? DM us or check the groupme to know who to contact for more details. Learn more here
International InterVarsity Fellowship
Please check and sign up for our coming activities here. Learn more here
Campus Partner Programs
Carlos Museum: Bodhi Day Celebration
Sunday, December 1, 12:00-4:00 pm., Ackermann Hall
Bodhi Day, celebrated by many Buddhists on December 8, commemorates the day Siddhartha Gautama achieved enlightenment. In the days leading to his enlightenment, according to tradition, Siddhartha sat beneath a Bodhi tree for forty-nine days and meditated.
We invite you to view images of the awakened one and of the Bodhi tree in the South Asian gallery then head up to Ackerman Hall to decorate a heart- shaped Bodhi leaf and have a heart-shaped cookie snack. 

Race and Religion
Department of Religion: Race and Religion in the Age of Science, Health and Healing
Friday, December 6, Center for Ethics (1531 Dickey Drive) Room RARB 102
Join the Department of Religion on December 6, 2024 for an interacting forum on “Race and Religion in the Age of Sicience, Health and Healing”. Featuring insightful discussions from Professor Sharla Feet (Occideental College), Professor Stephanie Evans (Georgia State University) and Professor Terence Keel (University of California). Learn more here
Resources and Opportunities
Jewish Studies at Emory: Spring 2025 Courses
We’re offering classes related to the Holocaust, Women and Law, Medieval Jewish Thought, American Jewish Pop Culture, Literature of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict, the Fall of Jerusalem, and a First-Year Seminar on Jews, Race and Conversion, to name just a few.

In addition to these featured offerings, check out the full list of all 17 Jewish Studies course listings to see if any pique your interest here
Secular Student Alliance Interest Form
The Secular Student Alliance (SSA) is a national organization for atheist, agnostic, humanist, and non-theistic students, and encourages students to live and cultivate their identity and advocate for the separation of religion and government.

Emory students are seeking to form a chapter of this organization, with the main goal being to create a safe space for atheists, agnostics, and religious students who may be questioning their faith. Emory University students are welcome.

To learn more and receive information about joining, please click here. 
Scholarship Opportunity for Methodist Students
Applications for UMHEF Scholarships Open January 1, 2025.
Catch up on the latest details about scholarships from the United Methodist Higher Education Foundation in our 2025 Reference Guide, found here.
Eligibility: UMHEF scholarships are available to full-time undergraduates, graduate students, and Doctor of Ministry students who plan to attend United Methodist-related schools for the 2025-2026 academic year. Exceptions or additional criteria may apply.
Eagle Food Pantry: A Free Food Pantry for Emory Students
Open: Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Bread Coffeehouse, 1227 Clifton Rd N E, 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.
Weekly Gatherings
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.
Can't find what you are looking for? Contact many of our undergraduate and graduate communities directly or contact our religious life affiliates and OSRL staff.
For questions, or to add an item to our weekly gatherings page, please email religiouslife@emory.edu.
Religious Accommodations: Major Holidays List for 2024-2025
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
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
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. 
 
EMORY UNIVERSITY CHAPLAINCY

CANNON CHAPEL
515 KILGO CIRCLE
ATLANTA, GA 30322 

INTERFAITH CENTER
1707 N DECATUR ROAD
ATLANTA, GA 30307
 
404-727-6226
 religiouslifE@emory.edu
@EMORYOSRL
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