Office of Religious and Spiritual Life - A proud member of ��ɫ��Ƶ Student Services

What is Chanukkah?

Candice Wendt — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:17:44 +0000

Chanukkah is a minor Jewish festival that lasts eight days and usually occurs in December. This year, it will start the evening of Sunday, Dec. 14th. The tradition of lighting menorahs, nine-branched candelabras made esp. for this holiday, and placing them in windows, makes Chanukkah visible to the greater community.

On the Christian Calendar and Christmas

Candice Wendt — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 21:01:55 +0000

Learning about the Christian liturgical calendar this year has year has really changed my perspective of Christmas! If you’re like me, you’ve always assumed the offical Christmas Season is what is happening throughout December as streets are decorated, people shop for gifts and various Christmas-themed events pop up. But if you look at the Christian calendar, early to mid December is not technically not Christmas at all, it’s Advent, the period of preparation for Christmas.

Rooted in Spirit, Ready to Grow

Carlene Gardner — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:13:04 +0000

Over the past few days, I had the privilege of joining the staff and volunteers of ��ɫ��Ƶ’s Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (MORSL) in interacting with more than 500 students and their families during orientation events. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by our tables and events, and to the volunteers from ��ɫ��Ƶ and local communities whose presence enriched the experience for all.

Happy Spiritual Health Awareness Week

MORSL — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:09:20 +0000

Did you know that Oct.

The Benefits of Social Generosity

Candice Wendt — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 19:17:02 +0000

Did you know that connecting with strangers comes with many benefits? Practicing what social scientist Linda R.

All Saints Day and Trinity Sunday

MORSL — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:11:01 +0000

For many Eastern Christians, June 15, 2025 was All Saints Day—a time to honour the lives of saints across the centuries. But this isn’t just about a few well-known figures. It’s a sweeping celebration of all saints—famous or forgotten, ancient or recent, from every walk of life—who have lived lives of faith and devotion.

Reflections on Climate Chaplaincy

Carlene Gardner — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:04:21 +0000

In their recent podcasts and webinars, the team at the BTS Centre have been exploring climate chaplaincy―that is, spiritual care focused on navigating the anxieties, grief, and uncertainty associated with the climate crisis―through many different lenses and from diverse angles.

Shavuot, Hajj, Eid al-Adha, and Pentecost

MORSL — Fri, 30 May 2025 20:13:27 +0000

This week, there are several holidays that commemorate past receipt of sacred knowledge, texts, and/or gifts. Each offers rich communal and personal faith experiences.

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia is May 17

MORSL — Thu, 15 May 2025 15:29:07 +0000

May 17 is International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), a day to raise awareness of LGBTQIA+ people and ways their rights are violated and to advocate for change across the globe. It is also a time to celebrate the progress that has already been made. This day was chosen to remember May 17, 1990, the date the World Health Organization declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder. Over 150 countries participate and you can find events at may17.org.

Creating Sacred Space This Summer

MORSL — Thu, 15 May 2025 15:27:27 +0000

Looking to cultivate greater inner wellness this summer? Whether you're back home or still in school, MORSL has some resources and recommendations: