University Ministry: The Turning Leaf

Oct. 24, 2025

The Turning Leaf

As the semester reaches its midpoint, many of us find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of midterms, long nights of studying, early mornings filled with coffee, and the constant rhythm of deadlines and responsibilities. In the midst of it all, it can be easy to lose sight of the simple but sacred moments that keep us grounded.

This season invites us to slow down, even if just for a breath. The crisp air and shorter days remind us that change is part of life’s natural rhythm. Just as the leaves fall to make room for new growth, we too are called to let go of what weighs us down and make space for renewal. Amidst the busy pace of midterms, may you find peace in stillness, comfort in familiarity, and strength in knowing that rest is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

Take time to care for yourself, whether that means stepping outside for a moment of quiet, spending time with friends and family, or finding solace in prayer or reflection. These small acts of care are not distractions from your responsibilities; they are what sustain you through them.

As you continue through midterms, may this time be not only one of hard work but also of grace, a reminder that balance, rest, and community are as important to our growth as any test or paper.

Energize your spirit! Join UM and BASE as we visit historically Black houses of worship throughout October and November. Must register for transportation. All USF community members are welcome!

For questions, email Rev. Ronné Wingate Sims or Professor Sonja Poole.

University Ministry invites you to throw on your HOKAs and fill up your Stanley to join us for our first-ever walking group. A new way to connect, get outside, and embrace movement together! Open to everyone, this group is all about building community while staying active.

Whether you’re looking for a break from studying, some fresh air, or just good company, we’d love for you to walk with us. See you on the path! For questions, email Caton Daval-Santos.

Monday, Oct. 27 | 3–4 p.m. PDT McLaren 251 or Zoom

Join us for a guided meditation in person or online. Guided meditation can help reduce stress, increase patience, improve focus, and more! Open to all students, faculty, and staff! Registration is required.

Session 2: Concentration and Focus Meditation on Oct. 27, from 3–4 p.m. PDT, in McLaren 251 or online via Zoom

Session 3: Loving-Kindness and Compassion Meditation on Nov. 17, from 4–5 p.m. PDT, in McLaren 251 or online via Zoom

For more information, email Resident Minister Poonam Kakodkar.

Thursday, Oct. 30 | 3–6 p.m. PDT Malloy Hall 230 or Zoom

This film series, presented by University Resident Minister Dede Adote in collaboration with Friends of Congo, fosters community dialogue on global citizenship and issues facing Congo.

The featured film, Mikuba by Petna Ndaliko Katondolo, explores Kolwezi’s cobalt mines, central to the green energy future, while spotlighting the struggles and resilience of local artisanal miners.

Proceeds support Synergie des Femmes, a collective of 35 women-led groups in eastern Congo that, for over 20 years, has provided medical, psychological, legal, and professional aid to survivors of gender-based violence, helping 18,000 women. The collective is led by renowned activist and author Justine Masika.

Thursday, Nov. 13 | 6–7:30 p.m.
Fromm Hall, Maraschi Room

Please join us for a timely conversation with Sister Patricia Chappell, SNDdeN. Sister Patricia has worked for decades in nonviolence and anti-racism work. After years as a community organizer, Sister Patricia entered the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur in 1977. She currently serves as the moderator of the leadership team for the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur U.S. East-West Province.

Co-sponsored by the Joan and Ralph Lane Center for Catholic Social Thought and the Ignatian Tradition, Casa Madríz, University Ministry, and the Department of Theology and Religious Studies.

Sunday, Nov. 23 | 7 a.m.
Soto Zen Temple

Join University Ministry as we attend three distinct temple services near USF. Meet at University Ministry's office (Toler Hall, Lower Level 122) to walk/take public transit to each temple. Afterwards, we will go to a restaurant to reflect and gather in community. You may register for any and all temple visits for this semester (note: you can also go back and add to your registration).

Visit 3: Soto Zen Temple (Zazen Practice, Morning Service, Temple Cleaning, & Tea) on Nov. 23, meet at 7:00 a.m. at UM office.

For more information, email Resident Minister Alice Garner.

Friday, Nov. 14 – Sunday, Nov. 16
Vina, California

This silent weekend retreat is open to faculty, staff, and students from all traditions. The retreat is with the brothers of the Abbey of New Clairvaux, a community of Trappist monks living a life of contemplative prayer and work. This abbey belongs to the worldwide Catholic order of monks called the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance.

Although this retreat is substantially subsidized by University Ministry, full scholarships are available on a need basis.

Students $50 | Faculty/Staff $100

Thursdays | 11:30 a.m.
University Ministry, Romero Room

Qmmunity will begin hosting Breaking Bread and the Binary this Thursday and every Thursday throughout the fall semester. This is a place to celebrate your true fabulous self and gain nourishment for the body and soul. Questions? Email Rabbi Camille Angel.

Join our USF Catholic Student Fellowship. We meet every Wednesday for community building, faith discussions, and a 15-minute rosary! For more information, please contact Randon Ronquillo.

We would love to see you there! 

Sunday, Nov. 9 | 2 p.m.
Saint Ignatius Church

Join community members for an afternoon of inspiration and entertainment, and support Nuevo Sol's mission. Nuevo Sol has provided San Francisco with quality childcare, caregiving, gardening, construction & more for over 35 years as a member-led immigrant organization. Featuring Fr. Greg Boyle and Jesse Manibusan.

This event is sponsored by, St. Ignatius Parish, Fr. Greg Boyle, Jesse Manibusan & Supporters of Nuevo Sol.

Suggested donation: $70

Tuesdays (Men's Group) | 11 a.m. University Center 415

Tuesdays | 7 p.m.
University Center 415

Wednesdays | 7 p.m.
University Center 503

Thursdays | 11:30 a.m.
University Center 503

These groups are a space to ask real questions, learn helpful approaches to reading the Bible, and build deeper friendships on campus. This semester, we're looking at Jesus' life and teaching in the Book of John. Contact Troy Tisthammer for more information, or just stop in.

We’re excited to support our colleagues at the Center for Global Education's (CGE) upcoming Global Education Immersions. These faculty-led programs offer students the opportunity to engage in meaningful cross-cultural learning experiences in locations such as Ireland, Italy, and Alaska — all while earning academic credit for their time abroad. Sign up for upcoming information sessions below!

Upcoming Immersions:

Civil Rights, Justice and Sport in Ireland, Intersession '26

Humane Architecture in the Arizona Borderlands, Intersession '26

Gastronomy and Culture in Italy, Summer '26

Culture and Environment in Sitka, Summer '26

Contact Program Director Shawn Dillard for more information.

Please note: These are Global Education immersions — not Arrupe immersions.

Thank you for reading our bi-weekly newsletter. If you would like to submit content for future newsletters, please make sure to fill out the UM Newsletter Intake Form. If you have any questions about submissions and deadlines, please email University Ministry.

Content deadline for upcoming newsletter: Thursday, Oct. 30.