Greetings students!
It’s an honor to be one of the many people welcoming you to campus this fall. My name is Maddie Henderson, and like many of you, I am new to the Emory University community. I joined the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life in June as the Christian Chaplain. In my role, I will lead our Beloved Community services, provide pastoral care, host studies and retreats, work with my OSRL staff and affiliated colleagues on ecumenical and interfaith initiatives, and more!
If you’re interested in getting involved in Christian life at Emory, there are many ways you can do that. First, you’re invited to join us for Beloved Community Worship on Sunday mornings at 11:00 am in Cannon Chapel. This weekly ecumenical service has long roots as Emory's student-centered chapel service and includes the beautiful musical gifts of our Music Director Mr. Maury Allums. We have an amazing assembly of speakers this semester who are leaders on campus or in the local community. And we always gather for a free lunch after worship in the Brooks Commons in the chapel. Our first service will be Sunday, August 22 at 11 am in Cannon Chapel. Over the semester we will have retreats, Bible studies, and opportunities to serve in the community.
Speaking of Maury, a second way to get involved in Christian life is to join the
Voices of Inner Strength Gospel Choir. The VOIS choir, led by Maury Allums, sings at Beloved Community Worship on the fourth Sunday of each month, offers one campus concert each semester, and sings at university events such as Baccalaureate and other occasions. Voices celebrated their 30th anniversary this summer, and you’re invited to be part of this amazing legacy! It generally rehearses on Fridays at 6 pm in White Hall.
In addition, we have eleven affiliated Christian organizations that partner with OSRL to serve students, provide Bible study and worship experiences, and create service opportunities. You can see a list of active groups
here as well as contact information for the campus ministers for each organization. These ministers and their staff are excited to meet you this fall. You are welcome to explore any and all of their communities.
And finally, I want to acknowledge that this semester may present many unexpected challenges as well as many pleasant surprises. Be sure to pace yourself as the semester starts, to make space for rest, and to ask for help when you need it. If you find yourself in need of a listening ear, do not hesitate to reach out to me (
madelyn.mary.henderson@emory.edu) or our office more generally (
religiouslife@emory.edu). Joining students for coffee, a walk, or a conversation in our office is one thing I and my colleagues are really looking forward to this semester.
I hope to meet you soon and that you have a great year ahead.
Peace and new year blessings,
Maddie
Christian Chaplain