Sacred Spaces, Student Wellbeing Festival, Interfaith Prayers for Peace
Sacred Spaces, Student Wellbeing Festival, Interfaith Prayers for Peace
 
News and Programs 9.19.24
Emory Sacred Spaces
Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. or by reservation. 
Sacred Spaces on Campus
The Emory University Chaplaincy has institutional responsibility for ensuring the availability and  appropriate use of spaces on campus for prayer and meditation across Emory University schools and facilities. This summer, OSRL completed work with the HSRB II leadership to create a new prayer and meditation room in that building, and we are currently consulting on several others. We welcome conversation with Emory faculty, staff, and students to ensure appropriate spaces for prayer and meditation across Emory. For more information, please contact religiouslife@emory.edu. For the current list of sacred spaces on campus, please click here
Sacred Spaces
Cannon Chapel Sanctuary 
Sacred Spaces
AMUC Prayer Room, OSRL Office, Suite 125
Rollins prayer room
Rollins School of Public Health Prayer Room, Claudia Nance Rollins Building, Room 1020 
SOM Prayer room
School of Medicine, Prayer and Meditation Room, James B. Williams Medical Education Building, Room A151
HSRB 2 prayer room
Health and Sciences Research Building II, Prayer and Meditation Room, N129
Woodruff Library Praye room
Woodruff Library, Prayer and Meditation Room, Room 125
Studentwellbeing Festival
Student Well-Being Festival
Tuesday, September 24, Noon-3 p.m., McDonough Field and Emory Student Center
The 2024 Wellbeing Festival is an opportunity to welcome all students to campus while also introducing them to Emory’s 8 dimensions of wellbeing. Because we know the spirit of play and practice is critical to lifelong wellbeing, the festival is also a chance for students to have fun and be exposed to a wide variety of experiences representing the 8 dimensions of wellbeing. Students will leave the festival more aware of themselves and the variety of resources available to them to support their holistic success at Emory.
Emory University Chaplaincy will be offering three activities at the fair:
  • Meditation with our Buddhist Chaplain, Venerable Priya;
  • Rangoli Making and Sacred Music with our Christian Chaplain Rev. Maddie and our Hindu Chaplain Rajeev; and
  • Coffee and Conversation (free iced tea and iced coffee) with our Muslim Chaplain Ustadh Rahimjon, Jewish Chaplain Rabbi Jordan, and the Flourishing Fellows team.
Other highlights include coloring and drawing, a sound bath, a DJ and dance, yoga, smoothie bikes, and support puppies.
Sponsored by Emory Center for Student Wellbeing in partnership with a range of Emory departments and colleges, including the University Chaplaincy. Learn more here
Midweek Musical Mediation
Midweek Musical Meditation: Interfaith Prayers for Peace
Wednesday, September 25, Noon -12:15 pm, Zoom or Facebook Live 
Join Music Director Maury Allums and Emory‘s multifaith chaplaincy team in taking a moment to breathe and connect with others in our community as we offer prayers and reflections for peace in our country and our world. Open to Emory students, faculty, and staff. Part of ODEI Diversity Week.
Register on Zoom or follow on our Facebook Live.
Midweek Musical Meditation
Midweek Musical Meditation - 9.18.24
Interfaith Atlanta: Interfaith Fall Festival
Sunday, September 22, 2-5:30 p.m., Columbia Theological Seminary, 701 S. Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30030
Interfaith Atlanta is excited to present our fourth annual Interfaith Festival. Join us for entertainment, food, friendship, community service, and music.
Emory University Chaplaincy will have a table so please come say hello! Learn more here
Flourishing Fellows: Community Supper
Saturday, October 5, 6 pm, Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
Community Suppers is a program that seeks to expand connections across campus. Over family-style meals, we have meaningful conversations, meet new friends, and strengthen the Emory community. We invite you to join us for the first meal of the semester. RSVP here.
Mindfulness Circle at Interfaith Center
Mondays, 6-7 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. For more information, please contact Venerable Priya at psraman@emory.edu.
Muslim Life Weekly Halaqa and Dinner 
Wednesdays starting September 18, 6-7:15 pm, 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.
For more information or to suggest a topic, please contact Ustadh Dr. Rahimjon Abdugafurov at rahimjon.abdugafurov@emory.edu.
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
Sponsor for Friday, September 20: Emory Christian Chaplaincy and InterVarsity
Upcoming Programs
Buddhist Meditation
Thursday, September 19, 6-7:15 p.m., Cannon Chapel Sanctuary

Guided Meditation and Discussion w/ Master Jian Cheng from Dharma Jewel Monastery
In-person option: Cannon Chapel Sanctuary, Community tea at 5:15 pm.m in Room 106 downstairs, Zoom option: https://emory.zoom.us/j/515025945. This meditation will be led by Dharma Jewel Monastery’s Shifu, Master Jian Cheng. Read more about Master Jian Cheng and Dharma Jewel at this link
Contact: Buddhist Chaplain Ven. Priya Rakkhit Sraman, psraman@emory.edu
Muslim Jumu'ah Prayers
Friday, September 20, 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, 5 p.m., Cannon Chapel
Join Emory's Hindu Chaplaincy and the Hindu Students Association for weekly Aarti prayers and community.
Contact: Chaplain Rajeev Persaud at rajeev.persaud@emory.edu.  
Shabbat
Hillel at Emory: Shabbat
Friday, September 20, Services 6:30 p.m., Dinner, 7 pm., 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
Friday, September 20, 8 p.m., 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. 
Beloved Community
Beloved Community Christian Worship and Free Lunch: Hispanic Heritage Month
Sunday, September 22, 11 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.
September 22 Preacher: Anton Flores-Maisonet, Founder of Casa Alterna
Beloved Community Bible Study: Dining with Jesus
Tuesdays starting September 3, 6 p.m., Emory Interfaith Center, 1707 N. Decatur Road
This fall we will explore the Gospel of Luke. We will focus on the meals Jesus has with people and what those meals mean for us today. Sign up here. For questions, email Rev. Maddie at mhend25@emory.edu
University Catholic Center: Sunday Masses
Sunday, September 22, 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.
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.
Looking to learn more? Save the date for our Friday Bible Studies.
For questions, please contact Orthodox Affiliate Jacob Sparks.
Emory Christian Fellowship: Bible Study
Thursdays starting September 5, 7:30-9 pm., Cannon Chapel Room 105D
Join Emory Christian Fellowship for the first Bible Study of the year. Learn more here
Muslim Students Association: Welcome Back Gala
Friday, September 27, 7 p.m., ESC MPR 4-6
We are very excited to announce that we will be hosting our Welcome Back GALA on September 27 from 7-10 pm. This is one our biggest events of the year so please come out and feel free to bring friends and family; be sure to also RSVP if you intend on coming. RSVP here
Glenn Memorial Church
Glenn Memorial Church: Sunday Nights at Glenn: Who Are We?
Sunday evenings beginning September 8, 6-7 p.m. Glenn Memorial Church School Building Parlor
Ever wanted to know a little more about Glenn’s core values and the denomination to which it belongs? Introducing Sunday Nights at Glenn. Throughout September, we will explore the question “Who Are We?” and dive into what makes us “Glenn UMC.”
To learn more, please click here
Reformed University Fellowship: Small Group Bible Study
Starting the week of September 9
We are starting Small Groups next week. 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
Our summer activities ended and our new school year is about to start. Please check and sign up for our coming activities here. Learn more here
Hillel at Emory: Sharaka
Wednesday, September 25, 7:30 p.m. Hillel at Emory
Holocaust, Antisemitism, and the Pursuit of Peacemaking: Lessons from History and the Path Forward 
Learn more by emailing Marina Veselova at marina@emoryhillel.org.
Hindu Students Association Garba
Saturday, October 5, 7 p.m., Emory Student Center
Get prepared for a free night of catered dinner by Madras Mantra, performance by SaRaas, music, and lots of dancing. 
RSVP through the link in our bio. 
Off Campus Programs
Retreat
Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center: "Caring For Our Common Home"
Friday-Sunday, October 18-20, 2024
Ignatius House Jesuit Retreat Center in Sandy Springs is offering a silent retreat October 18-20 entitled "Caring For Our Common Home."  The retreat will be led by GSU Asst. Professor Rob McDowell, and is a deep dive into creation spirituality from the Old Testament to the Gospels to modern thinkers. Thanks to some generous donors, this retreat is FREE to college students (undergraduate and graduate) and young adults from 18-25 years old. 
The retreat is ecumenical, typically has attendees from a wide range of faith traditions, and is an excellent opportunity to get away for a truly quiet weekend and connect with God through nature. 
Here is a link for more information and please contact Megan Denton (mdenton@ignatiushouse.org) for any questions
Campus Partner Programs
Songs of Praise: Telugu Studies
Saturday, September 21, 5:30 p.m., Emory Performing Arts Studio
Songs of Praise is performance by Sasikala Penumarthi (Artist Affiliate, Emory Dance Program) and two of her students from the Academy of Kuchipudi Dance featuring the devotional songs of Tallapaka Annamayya. The program consists of a short intro about the poet and then the dancers will perform 7 songs with supertitle translations accompanied by a 7-person South Indian musical ensemble. 
Program Website is here
Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Diversity Week
We are thrilled to announce that the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) will be hosting Diversity Week from Monday-Friday, September 23-27, 2024. This year’s theme reflects our commitment to fostering a culture where diversity and excellence thrive together
Mark your calendars for these highlighted events
2024 Diversity Week: Keynote Panel: Join us on September 23, for an engaging and thought-provoking panel discussion exploring how our daily actions contribute to building a more inclusive community at Emory. Light refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP
Women in Leadership Networking Luncheon, Oxford: Join us on September 24, for an interactive session on wellness facilitated by Sharon Stroye, inaugural Director of Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation initiatives.
Our program is offered to marginalized genders including women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that centers the lived experiences of women. Given that space is limited, we encourage you to RSVP as soon as possible to secure your place. 
Diversity of Desserts: Join us on September 25, during Wonderful Wednesdays on the Atlanta Campus and also on the Oxford Quad, to savor an exquisite selection of desserts that celebrate the rich tapestry of our community.
Diversity Week: Equitable Dinner
Thursday, September 26, 4-6 p.m., Lawerence P. and Ann Estes Klamon Room
Equitable Dinner: Join us for the Equitable Dinner on September 26 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm, where dialogue meets action. This powerful evening is a key part of Diversity Week and will foster meaningful conversations around equity and inclusion. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and make an impact. #EmoryDiversityWeek2024 #EquitableDinner Please RSVP
We are excited about the opportunities to connect, learn, and grow during Diversity Week. Stay tuned for more details and events from our campus partners.
TAM Institute Events
Walking Tour of Historic Jewish Atlanta 
Sunday, September 29, 2:00-6:30 p.m.
Join the Breman Jewish Museum's curator, Joel Silverman, for a two-mile walking tour of the downtown Summerhill neighborhood. We will unpack Atlanta's Jewish immigrant past including the sites of long-demolished institutions like the original location of Reform and Orthodox synagogues, explore the geographic divisions between Ashkenazi and Sephardic life, and see the home of Leo Frank. This event – including bus transportation - is FREE but SPACE IS LIMITED, so RSVP today.
Student Welcome Dinner
Wednesday, September 25, 6:00-7:15 p.m., Oxford Road Building’s Living Room
Come enjoy meet Jewish Studies faculty, majors & minors, and fellow students interested in learning more about the Tam Institute.  We’ll have a gourmet catered kosher dinner, swag, and lots of Raffle Prizes. We’ll also be sharing info about opportunities for future grants and awards. RSVP here
You can also sign up for TIJS’ e-newsletter for more opportunities and events.  
Black Seminarians Day 2024
Candler School of Theology: Black Seminarians Day 2024
October 2-3, Candler School of Theology
Join us for Candler's 7th Annual Black Seminarians Day on Wednesday, October 2 and Thursday, October 3. This year's theme is: "On The Shoulders of Giants: Public Theology, The Black Church, and You." I hope you'll join us for some or all of the following events:
The event will kick off on Wednesday, October 2 at 2 pm at the High Museum of Art to view the Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys exhibit, which showcases powerful works that engage with themes of identity, resilience, and cultural legacy. followed by a reception at The Colony Square.
Join us for the main event on Thursday, October 3 starting at 9 am at Candler to visit a class, attend chapel, and take a campus tour. You'll have a chance to experience Candler and connect with prospective and current students, as well as Candler faculty.
At 4:45 pm, join us for a reception before a screening of Let the Church Say, a documentary that seeks to answer the question, "is the American Black Church dead or alive?" Stick around afterwards for a panel with Rev. Dr. Nichole R. Phillips, Dr. W. James Abbington, and Rev. Dr. Teresa L. Fry Brown, three of Candler's esteemed faculty, as well as Candler alumni John Onwuchekwa, all of whom are featured in the documentary, alongside the documentary's visionary, the filmmaker, Rafiq J. Nabali. 
This is a unique opportunity to connect with others on a similar journey, engage in meaningful dialogue, and be inspired by the vibrant community at Candler. We look forward to welcoming you.
Link to Register
Resources and Opportunities
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 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.
Perspectives
Office of Respect: Refreshments with Respect
Join the Office of Respect for a series focused on relationship dynamics: understanding your own needs, navigating difficult circumstances, and taking care of yourself. Attendance at all three events is not required. Get information about our services and enjoy a snack.
RSVP here.

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 2024-25
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
These events are drawn from the multifaith calendar maintained by Harvard Divinity School. To see more upcoming religious holidays and festivals, please click here
Rosh Hashanah
Wed., Oct. 2 – Fri., Oct. 4, 2024
Tradition: Judaism
The Jewish New Year and the anniversary of the creation of the world, Rosh Hashanah is the first of the Ten Days of Awe (also known as the Ten Days of Repentance) that conclude on Yom Kippur. It marks the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews.
Navaratri
Thu., Oct. 3 – Sat., Oct. 12, 2024
Tradition: Hinduism
A nine-night (nav-rat) celebration of nine auspicious forms of Shakti/Devi (feminine divine power/the Goddess).
Yom Kippur
Fri., Oct. 11 – Sat., Oct. 12, 2024
Tradition: Judaism
Day of Atonement. The conclusion of the Ten Days of Awe, Yom Kippur is the holiest and most solemn of all days in the Jewish year. It is characterized by repentance, fasting, and forgiveness. Begins at sundown.
Dusserah (Vijaya Dashami)
Sat., Oct. 12, 2024
Tradition: Hinduism
Aholiday marking the triumph of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, over the 10-headed demon king Ravana, who abducted Rama's wife, Sita. The festival's name is derived from the Sanskrit words dasha (“ten”) and hara (“defeat”).
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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