 |
|
|
|
|
A Reflection from the University Chaplaincy
| |
Greetings friends!
As I drove across Massachusetts last weekend to visit Northampton, I was struck by the beauty of the physical landscape—forests of green, vast blue skies, and the slightest tinge of color on the leaves as the beginning of autumn approaches. I had just delivered my first khutbah sermon for Friday prayers, and had been overjoyed by the energy and spirit of those returning to our campus as well as those coming for the first time. I have never seen such dynamism from a group of students returning to school. Their excitement for the opportunities that spaces of higher education like Tufts offer was infectious, both in terms of the lifelong friendships they will start to build here, as well as the skills that will serve them in their careers moving forward.
The beautiful landscape and the students' joyful readiness for work called to mind the words of one of my favorite poets, Kahlil Gibran (d. 1931):
“You work that you may keep pace with the earth and the soul of the earth. For to be idle is to become a stranger unto the seasons, and to step out of life’s procession, that marches in majesty and proud submission towards the infinite.”
--“On Work”, in The Prophet, Kahlil Gibran
The energy that everyone is bringing to campus as the seasons turn reminds me of the joy of work. In a world where we are all too often downcast about the prospect of ever more things to do, Gibran reminds us that there is also work that is worth doing. This message is even more resonant in higher education, where students develop a taste for difficult thinking, challenging ideas, and intensive work. This work is not meaningful in and of itself; it also helps the individual to not “become a stranger” or to “step out of life’s procession.” Our work is connected to the world that we live in, and the challenges and difficulties ahead show us that there is worthy work left to do amidst the natural beauty of the world that we live in, and that it is worth protecting.
So today my question for you is this: What’s absolutely worth doing in your work right now? I hope it is fulfilling for you in this seasonal transition.
Peace,
Khan Shairani, Ph.D.
Muslim Chaplain
| |
|
Religious and Philosophical Events and Gatherings
| |
True Colors: Queer Interfaith Drop-In Space
Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., LGBT Center, 2nd Floor
Starts today! True Colors is an interfaith drop-in space for queer-identified students to talk about spirituality, religion, and/or whatever is on your minds and hearts. We will have snacks, coloring, and other craft activities. All are welcome. Hosted by Dan Bell, Tufts’ Protestant Chaplain, and the interfaith liaison to the LGBT Center. Contact Protestant Chaplain Dan Bell.
| |
Book of Revelation Bible Study and Dinner
Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Austin Conference Room, Tisch Library
Starts today! Have you ever been interested in learning more about the Book of Revelation, one of the most mysterious books of the Bible? If so, please join us! All students are welcome, regardless of background, identity, or prior experience. Pizza dinner provided. Contact Protestant Chaplain Dan Bell to learn more.
| |
Spanish/English Bilingual Mass
Misa bilingüe en ingles y español
Domingo, 14 septiembre (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!
Sunday, September 14 (and every second Sunday of the month)
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!
| |
Humanist Chaplaincy Fall Book Club
Mondays, 12:00 p.m - 1:00 p.m, Interfaith Center Lounge
Please register below to join the Humanist Chaplaincy's Fall Book Club. This semester, we will delve into What I Believe: Humanist Ideas and Philosophies to Live By by author Andrew Copson. A free book copy and snacks will be provided. You can sign up below and send any questions to Humanist Chaplain Anthony Cruz Pantojas.
| |
Two Day Retreat with the Tufts Buddhist Community
Friday, September 26 - Sunday, September 28 at Providence Zen Center
Apply by September 18
This annual retreat is a collaboration between Tufts Buddhist Mindfulness Sangha, Graduate Buddhist Mindfulness Sangha, and the Tufts Buddhist Chaplaincy. Activities will include: mindful walks in the forest, yoga in the morning, Noble Silence and time for reflection, sitting meditation, mindful incense making & mindful art work, chanting, and delicious vegetarian meals. For any questions, reach out to Budddhist Chaplain Vineetha Mahayaye.
| |
|
Sacred Inquiry: The Art of Meaningful Exploration
Thursdays: Sept 18, Oct 2, Oct 16, and Oct 30
Facilitated by Humanist Chaplain Anthony Cruz Pantojas and Jennifer Granquist, Urgent Care Specialist and Staff Clinician. Join a small community of ten graduate students for four gatherings that blend inquiry practices with evidence-based wellness approaches. Together, we'll explore the art of becoming more human— with all its complexity, beauty, and challenge (no matter your spiritual, philosophical, or ethical background). Whether you’re wrestling with purpose, seeking deeper connection, or simply curious about life’s questions and how spirituality informs mental health, this space of sacred work is for you. Food will be provided. Please register below. For any questions or concerns, email the Humanist Chaplain Anthony Cruz Pantojas or CMHS Clinician Jennifer Granquist.
| |
|
|
Resources and Opportunities
| |
Get Paid to Sing with Choral Scholars
Applications open through September 20 at 11:59 p.m. ET
Voices for Peace and Light is an unauditioned choir open to all members of the Tufts community. Four Choral Scholars, one for each voice part (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass), will serve as section leaders in the choir. Additional work as song leader for Goddard Chapel services available on an ad-hoc basis. The Choral Scholar is a paid position, secured by audition. We are currently hiring a Tenor and Bass position. Please contact Music Director Suzie Cartreine with any questions and happy on Handshake below.
| |
Be a Shabbat Fellow with Tufts Hillel
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis until September 26 at 11:59 p.m. ET
Love planning events for your friends to come hang out? Looking for free dinner every week with your networks on campus, while gaining professional skills and building community on campus? Applications are open for Shabbat Fellows for the 2025-2026 academic year! The Shabbat Fellowship is a *paid* program in which students plan, recruit for, and host weekly Shabbats. If you have any questions, contact Senior Jewish Educator Katie Hamelburg. Please complete the brief form linked below to apply; you can email Tufts Hillel for more information.
| |
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.
Ghambar Paitishem
Friday, September 12 – Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Tradition: Zoroastrianism
Celebrates the creation of the Earth and the harvesting of the summer crop.
Mabon
Monday, September 22, 2025
Tradition: Wicca/Paganism
Autumnal Equinox and the second harvest festival, celebrating the equivalence of light and dark, the arrival of Autumn and thanksgiving for the Earth’s bounty.
Navaratri
Monday, September 22 – Thursday, October 2, 2025
Tradition: Hinduism
A nine-night (nav-rat) celebration of nine auspicious forms of Shakti/Devi (feminine divine power/the Goddess).
Rosh Hashanah
Monday, September 22 – Wednesday, September 24, 2025
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.
| |
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.
| |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
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.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
