The memorial footbridge provides a spot for contemplation. (Photo by Sam Brooks '12)
Wilson Chapel is a place for quiet contemplation, religious and spiritual observance, and gathering in community. (Photo by Sam Brooks '12)
The gazebo on Haupt Pond is a quiet place to relax. (Photo by Sam Brooks '12)
summer 2022
Congratulations and Best Wishes!
To our graduates, we offer our congratulations and blessings for your future. Stay in touch! We are so grateful we got to know you and share some of the journey with you. To all of our community, whether your summer takes you around the world or back to campus we wish you well. May we all find time for restorative rest and wonder this summer.
Welcome incoming students!
Starting at Skidmore in Fall 2022? Welcome! Fill out the interest form here to get started connecting with religious and spiritual life, clubs, interfaith opportunities, holiday event announcements and more. This form helps us plan for the year and welcome you to campus, allows you to sign up for interest lists, and lets you ask questions like: When are High Holy Days services on campus? How do I find a ride to the masjid on Fridays? Can I continue this faith-based service project I started in High School? How do I find a local congregation that is LGBTQIA affirming? And more! We are looking forward to a full year of weekly gatherings, special events, and meaningful connections. Check out the "Religious Life on Campus" section of the website for tradition-specific information or contact us directly with questions.
Weekly Schedule
Our Spring 2022 weekly schedule is below (here). We expect the Fall schedule to be similar, with some changes and additions. Questions? Want to add an event? Let us know: orsl@skidmore.edu. Schedule subject to change. During the academic year individual event listings also available on SkidSync (Log in to SkidSync with your Skidmore login in formation, scroll down to "All Events" and click on "View More Events" to see ORSL event listings).
Where are we?
Our in-office hours are limited over the Summer. The best way to get in touch is by email: orsl@skidmore.edu or directly to Parker Diggory, Director of Religious and Spiritual Life: kdiggory@skidmore.edu, or to Martina Zobel, Coordinator of Jewish Student Life: mzobel@skidmore.edu. Our current office space is in Case 207, where you can find all of the offices of Campus Life & Engagement (including the Office of Student Diversity Programs, Community Service, and Leadership Activities). We're across the hall from The Center and just upstairs from The Spa and Print Services. During the academic year you can also set up an in-person or online meeting by picking a time here.
Holidays and Observances
See this page for more on accommodation policies and a calendar of holidays and observances. We recommend connecting with instructors and supervisors early about requests for accommodations and we are available to advise and advocate with students as part of that process.
On-campus services, celebrations, and gatherings: We work with interested students, clubs, and local communities to acknowledge religious holidays and observances and provide opportunities for students to take part and learn about different traditions. For Fall 2022 we (and our partners) have plans in the works for on-campus observances of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Diwali, All Saints, Advent, and more! We also assist students with transportation arrangements to attend services, celebrations, and observances off campus in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding area.
Mindfulness Program
Meditation, Sound Healing, Yoga, Contemplative Practices, and more. Check out the Skidmore Mindfulness page for more information about the program, including guided meditations and recommendations of additional resources. We welcome student input on programming and scheduling. Many of our meditation leaders and yoga instructors are current Skidmore students and we're always looking for more student leaders or those interested in gaining experience in leading meditation and related practices.
Clubs and Gatherings
We are grateful for the leadership of our partner student clubs including Challahmore, Christian Fellowship, Hayat, Hillel, Muslim Students Association, and Newman Club. We also host weekly Zen meditation gatherings and biweekly Quaker gatherings. In addition we partner with cultural and and affinity clubs along with the Office of Student Diversity Programs to support student-led celebrations, interfaith collaboration, and spiritual engagement. Check out the clubs on SkidSync and Instagram or get in touch with us to find out more. You can sign up for clubs via SkidSync (Skidmore login required to sign up and to see all of the offerings) and at Club Fair at the start of each semester. Is your club missing? Want to start a new one? Let us know!
The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) provides opportunities for members of the Skidmore community to develop their religious and spiritual lives and to build community within, between, and beyond traditions.
We encourage enriching dialogue, meaningful ritual and enduring friendships among people of all religious backgrounds.
We offer:
- religious services
- holiday observances
- contemplative practices
- speakers and lectures
- educational programs
- discussion groups
- community-service opportunities
- social-justice projects
- club advising
- individual spiritual counsel
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Contacting a chaplain or spiritual advisor Connect with the ORSL:
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Wilson Chapel Wilson Chapel is a beautiful space for worship and wonder, retreat and reflection.
The space does not belong to any one tradition or religion and it can be transformed
easily to fit specific ritual needs. When not scheduled for campus events, it is available
to the Skidmore community for personal reflection and prayer. Events at the chapel
include yoga, meditation, religious prayers and services, and events that explore
many forms of spiritual and contemplative practice.During the academic year: When not otherwise reserved, the chapel is normally open from around 7 am. to around 11 p.m. during the school year for use by students, staff, and faculty. Those interested in reserving Wilson Chapel for outside use, including weddings, should consult the External Facilities Rental information from the Skidmore College Scheduling Office. Note: Space availability for off-campus groups may be restricted due to Covid-19 policies. |
Weekly Schedule for Spring 2022 (The Fall 2022 schedule will be posted at the end of the summer)
Contact orsl@skidmore.edu with questions, to sign up to receive regular emails with links and updates, or for information including accessibility and accommodations. Unless otherwise noted, gatherings are open to Skidmore students, staff, and faculty with priority for students when space is limited. Online and hybrid options may be available; just ask!
Note: In person gatherings are subject to cancellation or change according to health and safety policies. Sign up for updates or RSVP to events to receive change notices.
MONDAYS
Starts 1/25/22. This is an opportunity to explore your own contemplative practice, breathe, and be before you start your day. You can drop-in for any amount of time between 9am-10am every weekday (and any time the space is open and not being used!). Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/31/22. Prayer from a range of Christian traditions. Newcomers always welcome. Case 205 is part of the new Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center by the ATM (former SCEMS location). Online/hybrid options available. Contact: kdiggory@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Hang out, take a break, study, meditate, pray, just be. Monday through Thursday afternoons (and any time the chapel is open and not otherwise reserved). Most afternoons hosted by ORSL student staff. No need to RSVP. Wilson Chapel is located by the North Woods, just across the parking lot from Palamountain and Tisch. Contact: kdiggory@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Every weekday, Monday through Friday. Guided meditation moment with attention to breath and mindful presence. Newcomers always welcome. Led by ORSL staff. Part of the Skidmore Mindfulness Program. Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Online or hybrid. Stop by for a casual discussion of topics and texts related to Jewish tradition. All are welcome, regardless of religious background. Newcomers welcome throughout the semester. Led by Martina Zobel, Coordinator of Jewish Student Life. Want to receive updates when the schedule is announced? Contact: mzobel@skidmore.edu
Planned Spring dates: February 7th, March 7th, April 4th, May 2nd. Join Join Newman Club on SkidSync to receive updates. Join students, staff, and faculty for this monthly evening gathering to meditate upon the mysteries of the Rosary and pray for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Rosaries are available for people to borrow along with printed copies of the prayers for people to follow along.
See Newman Club on SkidSync for more information. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
TUESDAYS
Starts 1/25/22. This is an opportunity to explore your own contemplative practice, breathe, and be before you start your day. You can drop-in for any amount of time between 9am-10am every weekday (and any time the space is open and not being used!). Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Hang out, take a break, study, meditate, pray, just be. Monday through Thursday afternoons (and any time the chapel is open and not otherwise reserved). Most afternoons hosted by ORSL student staff. No need to RSVP. Wilson Chapel is located by the North Woods, just across the parking lot from Palamountain and Tisch. Contact: kdiggory@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Every weekday, Monday through Friday. Guided meditation moment with attention to breath and mindful presence. Newcomers always welcome. Led by ORSL staff. Part of the Skidmore Mindfulness Program. Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Tuesdays and Thursdays, starts 2/1/22. Join Skidmore Mindfulness student staff Noa Golan for an evening of relaxation and sound healing. Students will sit or lay in shavāsana while Noa fills the space with beautiful meditative sound. This class is very relaxing and no experience is needed. Space may be limited. RSVP via SkidSync or see the RSVP links on our Mindfulness page. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Newman Club weekly gatherings alternate between general meetings with fellowship (and often games and the occasional guest speaker!) and student-led Catholic Bible Study. See Newman Club on SkidSync for more information. All students welcome. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
WEDNESDAYS
Starts 2/2/22. An energizing flow to start the day. Led by Skidmore Mindfulness student staff Noa Golan. Space may be limited. RSVP on Skidsync or see the RSVP links on our Mindfulness page. Open to all levels of practice. Mats available. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. This is an opportunity to explore your own contemplative practice, breathe, and be before you start your day. You can drop-in for any amount of time between 9am-10am every weekday (and any time the space is open and not being used!). Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Hang out, take a break, study, meditate, pray, just be. Monday through Thursday afternoons (and any time the chapel is open and not otherwise reserved). Most afternoons hosted by ORSL student staff. No need to RSVP. Wilson Chapel is located by the North Woods, just across the parking lot from Palamountain and Tisch. Contact: kdiggory@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Every weekday, Monday through Friday. Guided meditation moment with attention to breath and mindful presence. Newcomers always welcome. Led by ORSL staff. Part of the Skidmore Mindfulness Program. Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM.Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
This gathering brings together longtime practitioners and newcomers with experienced leaders from Skidmore and the local community. Individuals of all religious backgrounds are welcome. Newcomers please try to arrive before 6:25 pm, as we offer basic Zen meditation instruction for first-time attendees promptly at 6:30 pm. Late-comers are welcome to enter quietly. We sit two periods interspersed with walking meditation, typically ending by 7:45. Cushions, meditation benches, and chairs are provided; wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Questions or need a link for online gathering? Email Holley Hodgins, hhodgins@skidmore.edu
THURSDAYS
Starts 1/25/22.. This is an opportunity to explore your own contemplative practice, breathe, and be before you start your day. You can drop-in for any amount of time between 9am-10am every weekday (and any time the space is open and not being used!). Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Hang out, take a break, study, meditate, pray, just be. Monday through Thursday afternoons (and any time the chapel is open and not otherwise reserved). Most afternoons hosted by ORSL student staff. No need to RSVP. Wilson Chapel is located by the North Woods, just across the parking lot from Palamountain and Tisch. Contact: kdiggory@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Every weekday, Monday through Friday. Guided meditation moment with attention to breath and mindful presence. Newcomers always welcome. Led by ORSL staff. Part of the Skidmore Mindfulness Program. Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Tuesdays and Thursdays, starts 2/1/22. Join Skidmore Mindfulness student staff Noa Golan for an evening of relaxation and sound healing. Students will sit or lay in shavāsana while Noa fills the space with beautiful meditative sound. This class is very relaxing and no experience is needed. Space may be limited. RSVP via SkidSync or see the RSVP links on our Mindfulness page. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Contact orsl@skidmore.edu for schedule updates for our student-led weekly Bible Study
FRIDAYS
Starts 1/25/22. This is an opportunity to explore your own contemplative practice, breathe, and be before you start your day. You can drop-in for any amount of time between 9am-10am every weekday (and any time the space is open and not being used!). Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Wilson Chapel is reserved every Friday 11:30am – 2:30 pm for Muslim prayers. Students can drop in to use the space or organize gatherings for Dhur and Jummah. Want to join a scheduled gathering or start your own? Get in touch with ORSL (orsl@skidmore.edu or stop by Case 207) and watch for announcements from the Muslim Students Association. Prayer rugs are available on shelves in the hallway to the right of the entrance. The chapel can also be used for prayer any time it is open and not otherwise reserved.
Starts ONLINE 1/28/22, then in person 2/4/22 and following. Led by Skidmore Mindfulness student staff Franca Bibow. A mindful flow, centered on connecting you to your mind, body, and heart. Space is limited. RSVP on Skidsync or see the RSVP links on our Mindfulness page. Open to all levels of practice. Mats available. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Starts 1/25/22. Every weekday, Monday through Friday. Guided meditation moment with attention to breath and mindful presence. Newcomers always welcome. Led by ORSL staff. Part of the Skidmore Mindfulness Program. Case 205 is part of the Campus Life & Engagement space on the 2nd floor of Case Center, near the ATM. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
Student-led egalitarian services to welcome Shabbat on Friday evenings. All are welcome. Contact:mzobel@skidmore.edu
We start with candle lighting, brachot and kiddush and continue with a delicious meal as we close the week and connect with our community. RSVP required (see Skidsync and updates from Hillel and JSL). Contact: mzobel@skidmore.edu
See Skidmore Christian Fellowship on SkidSync for more information and to sign up for the club email list. Bible Studies and other weekly gatherings to be announced as well. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
SATURDAYS
As health and safety conditions allow, students may attend services at a local congregation. Contact Jewish Student Life Coordinator Martina Zobel (mzobel@skidmore.edu) for more information or to help organize on-campus options. We can also help with transportation. See the "Local Communities" section for a partial list of congregations.
Monthly(ish) gatherings for Havdalah to close out Shabbat and turn to the new week. Gatherings often continue with game nights or music jams. See announcements from Hillel and Jewish Student Life for details. Contact: mzobel@skidmore.edu
SUNDAYS
As health and safety conditions allow, students attend services at a number of local congregations. Contact orsl@skidmore.edu for more information and see Newman Club on SkidSync for specifics about attending Catholic Mass. Online options are available for many congregations. See the https://www.skidmore.edu/religious-life/localworship.php page for a partial list of congregations.
Currently planned for Spring 2022: Sundays 2/13, 2/27, 3/13, 3/27, 4/10, 4/24, 5/8). We gather for fellowship and unprogrammed worship in partnership with members of local Friends Meetings. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
A mindful and gentle yoga practice to make the transition from weekend to week. RSVP on Skidsync or see the RSVP links on our Mindfulness page. Open to all levels of practice. Mats available. Contact: orsl@skidmore.edu
More to come! Want to request additional times or types of gatherings? Let us know: orsl@skidmore.edu or drop in to office hours or stop by Wilson Chapel during open hours.
Schedule subject to change. See SkidSync or contact us for information or to find out about additional opportunities and local services.
