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Women in Buddhism & Hinduism panelists, October 29, 2025
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| A Reflection from the University Chaplaincy
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I wasn’t feeling well last week, so I took a short vacation. I realized that my body needed a proper break to adjust to the changing weather. My body longed for the warmth of Sri Lanka, and my mind craved the warmth of my mother and my friends back home.
When I’m in the United States, I find comfort and connection to Sri Lanka—and to my mother—through the Sri Lankan spices she so carefully prepares. If I go too long without eating spicy food, I feel as though I’m not taking good care of myself. My stomach and body are so accustomed to those flavors that spicy food feels like medicine for both my body and my mind.
Although I often feel my mother’s warmth through the spices she makes, last Wednesday I felt her presence in a different way, through a program at the Tufts University Chaplaincy. We had a panel discussion titled Women in Buddhism & Hinduism, co-organized by the Tufts University Chaplaincy and the Tufts Women’s Center. There were four panelists, including the facilitator: one woman from Sri Lanka, one from China, and two from India. The discussion felt genuine and alive. Each panelist shared her personal experiences growing up as a woman within Buddhist or Hindu religious and cultural traditions.
Throughout the discussion, I felt my mother’s warmth and presence and care. I felt deeply connected—and proud of all the panelists who shared their life experiences so openly and fearlessly as women.
As this semester continues, I hope you, too, find moments of connection—whether through a class you’re taking, a program you attend, a meal you prepare or enjoy, or even a simple walk that brings you peace.
With metta,
Vineetha Mahayaye
Buddhist Chaplain
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Pluralism and Peace: A Qawwali Mehfil
Thursday, November 6, 6:30 p.m., Goddard Chapel
We have received an incredible response from both our campus and wider community for this special concert, which is being made possible thanks to the generous support of many offices, departments, and funds at Tufts. One hundred seats have been reserved especially for attendees with Tufts IDs, and the doors open at 5:45pm. Please come to the Tisch Roof-side back door of Goddard Chapel and be sure to have your ID ready. The Tower Door of Goddard Chapel will be open at 5:45pm for our community guests, and seats are first come, first serve. Please contact the University Chaplaincy if you have any questions or concerns.
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Journey of the Heart: Sufi Qawwali Lunch and Learn
Wednesday, November 12, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Interfaith Center
Experience the soulful sounds of Qawwali, a devotional form of Sufi music from the Indian subcontinent. Following the Qawwali performance on November 6 at Goddard Chapel, join Professor Modhumita Roy (English Department) and Muslim Chaplain Khan Shairani for a thoughtful lunchtime discussion delving deeper into the soul of Qawwali. Together, we will explore the poetic traditions behind Qawwali, and share translated verses by legendary performers like Farid Ayyaz and Abu Muhammad. Through poetry and conversation, this event will reflect on themes of spirituality, transcendence, and the quest for the divine through music. Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect music, poetry, and meaning. Lunch will be provided. Register below!
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Russell Lecture on Spiritual Life and Solomont Speaker Series Event
Tuesday, November 18, 5:00 p.m., Goddard Chapel
On Tuesday, November 18, we will host Varun Soni, A96 Dean of Religious Life at the University of Southern California, as our Russell Lecture speaker, and as part of the Solomont Speaker Series. This event is co-sponsored by the Alumni Engagement Office, the Asian American Center, Athletics, Ex-College, Tisch College, and the University Chaplaincy. The Lecture will be held in Goddard Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Reception to follow in Eaton 250 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The Lecture "The Game is Life: Spiritual Lessons from the Religion of Sports" will combine Dean Soni's experience as a Hindu spiritual leader, a scholar of world religions, and work with collegiate and professional sports teams and coaches. You can read his full biography and find more information about the event one our website, and register below.
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Pax et Lux: T-shirt Design Contest
Deadline of entry: November 10
Pax et Lux is the Tufts University Chaplaincy’s annual multifaith and multicultural winter celebration. Inspired by themes of ‘Peace and Light,’ the program uplifts Tufts University's rich mosaic of arts, traditions, and histories through storytelling, performance, and dance. Submit your artwork to have it featured on t-shirts for Tufts Chaplaincy's signature event! For more information, contact Interfaith Ambassador Jacob Geller.
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Religious and Philosophical Events and Gatherings
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Tea & Community Care: Breathing with the Ancestors & Full Moon Celebration
Wednesday, November 5, Goddard Chapel
10-minute meditation, 40-minute Breathing With the Ancestors Practice
- Connect with one of your ancestors and celebrate them with the full moon ceremony.
- Bring a physical or mental gift that you have received from ancestors
- Connect with the ancestors and reflect on the meaning of that gift
- Enjoy a bowl of warm soup from Life Alive after the program
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Spanish/English Bilingual Mass, every second Sunday of the month
Misa bilingüe en ingles y español, cada segundo Domingo del mes
Cada segundo domingo del mes, vamos a celebrar la misa bilingüe. Nosotros queremos que ustedes nos ayuden en planificar con la selección de música, cantando o participar en el coro, leyendo escrituras, y escribir oraciones. Nuestra guía de adoración proporciona la lectura en ambos idiomas, con toda la música y lecturas en español y la homilía en inglés. Estos contribuciones son una bendición para nuestra comunidad y nosotros tenemos la esperanza que vas a traer sus espíritus de tradiciones a Tufts. Contacte a jose.rodriguez_sanchez@tufts.edu para aprender más o para inscribiste para ayudar!
Every second Sunday of the month, we celebrate Bilingual Mass. We would love for you to help us plan with music selection, singing/performing in the choir, reading scripture, and writing prayers. Our worship aid provides the readings in both languages, with all music and readings in Spanish and the homily in English. These services are such a blessing to our community, and we hope you will bring the spirit of your traditions to Tufts! Email Catholic student leader Jose Rodriguez Sanchez to learn more or sign up!
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Debunk the Monks with the Buddhist Chaplaincy and Bhakti Club
Monday, November 10, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Interfaith Center
- Opening Chant: Led by S.B. Keshava Swami and Buddhist Chaplain Vineetha
- Reflections & Discussion: The speakers will share their experiences as monastics in the Hindu and Buddhist traditions
- Q&A Session: Opportunity to engage with the speakers and ask questions
- Refreshments: Enjoy a selection of vegetarian sushi during the program
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Speed Faithing with the Interfaith Ambassadors
Tuesday, November 11, 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Interfaith Center
Join the Interfaith Ambassadors and Tufts University Chaplaincy for our Speed Faithing event to explore "Stories We Live By" through the lens of a variety of faiths, spirituality, and philosophical thought, as well as an opportunity to learn more about other traditions! Dinner will be provided. Please email University Chaplain Elyse Nelson Winger with any questions.
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Death Cafe with the Humanist Community at Tufts
Thursday, November 13, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Interfaith Center
Join the Humanist Community at Tufts (HCAT) for an evening of amazing conversations (and food!), where the subject of the night is death. The vibes are wonderful, the food is delicious, and those of all beliefs are welcome! This event is our biggest yearly celebration! Everyone will be split into tables with peers, with impeccable food alongside tea/coffee and potluck desserts! Click the link below to RSVP and for potluck info!
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Queerness and Faith Dinner
Friday, November 14, 4:45 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Interfaith Center
All are welcome to our fifth annual Queerness and Faith Dinner, hosted by COFFEE and True Colors, and sponsored by COFFEE, the University Chaplaincy and LGBT Center. In addition to great conversation, there will be an opportunity to make art together! Please complete the sign-up form below to let us know you plan to attend by Wednesday, November 12.
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Thanksgiving Dinner
Saturday, November 15, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Curtis Hall Multipurpose Room
All are welcome to this annual celebration of Thanksgiving, hosted by Tufts’ undergraduate Christian student organizations. Join us to celebrate Thanksgiving across traditions and give thanks for life's blessings together! Please complete this sign-up form to let us know you plan to attend by Wednesday, November 12.
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Indigenous Peoples' Heritage Month is celebrated at Tufts University to honor the remarkable Indigenous People who have contributed, visited, and sacrificed their livelihood for the lands which Tufts occupies. This month is also referred to as the American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month and/or Native American History Month. At Tufts, November is a time to rejoice the diverse and rich cultures, histories, and traditions and to appreciate the great contributions of Indigenous Peoples. This month allows the Indigenous community at Tufts to spread awareness and to educate people about the various challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples in the past and today. Throughout this month, we commit to keep on supporting the remaining Indigenous Peoples and let the world know about their sacrifices and as always, to center Indigeneity at Tufts University. The Indigenous Center hopes you can attend and support one of our many events in November or beyond. If you have questions, please email the Indigenous Center.
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Resources and Opportunities
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Winter Clothing Drive
Drop-off hours are Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The drive will run from November 3 to 13, and all contributions will directly support Tufts students as we head into the colder months. Each year, we are thrilled by the generosity and community spirit that are evident in the donations received. We invite you to be part of this important Tufts tradition. Together, we can make a meaningful impact by helping ensure everyone stays warm this winter. For after-hours donations, items can be dropped off at the Campus Center Information Booth.
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Swipe it Forward!
Help a Jumbo out by donating meals to the Swipe it Forward program. Any student can donate up to 10 meals from their meal plan per semester! Meals go to students having difficulty finding their next meal. Click on the button below to donate now!
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To see more upcoming religious holidays and festivals, including information about seeking religious accommodations at Tufts, please follow the link to the Tufts Multifaith Calendar.
Gurunanak Jayanthi
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
(Sikhism) Guru Nanak's Birthday.
Sigd
Wednesday, November 19 - Thursday, November 20, 2025
(Judaism) Begins at sundown on the first day listed. Celebrated 50 days after Yom Kippur, especially in Ethiopian Jewish communities.
Day of the Covenant
Monday, November 24 – Tuesday, November 25, 2025
(Baha'i) Begins at sundown on the first day listed. Celebrates the anniversary of the appointment of 'Abdu'l-Baha, the son of Baha'u'llah, as the Center of the Covenant.
Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji
Monday, November 24, 2025
(Sikhism) This day commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji (1621-1675), the ninth of the Ten Sikh Gurus. He is remembered not only for his defense of the Sikh faith but also for his defense of Hinduism and religious liberty.
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Support the University Chaplaincy
Supporting programs at Tufts University in religious, spiritual, ethical, and cultural life is easy and vital to our work. To donate, please click on the button below. Thank you for your generosity.
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The University Chaplaincy is a dynamic hub supporting religious, spiritual, ethical, and cultural life for all members of the Tufts community. We provide spiritual care, support religious and philosophical communities, educate about spiritual and ethical issues in society and the world, and promote multifaith engagement.
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