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FCA Fields of Faith
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANXBA.
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM.
Athletic Field, 800 Turf Field, University Commons, Room 120A Yoder Arena.
Celebration Student Worship Service
Celebration is a student-led Christian worship service featuring praise songs, scripture and reflection. It is held every two weeks on Sunday evenings from 7-8 p.m. The services are open to everyone.
Celebration takes place in UC 177 (lower level University Commons - south entrance).
For more information and/or to get involved, contact the Celebration Leadership Team at celebration@emu.edu.
1 Engage Point available beginning September 20.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANVWJ.
Sunday, October 4, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 177 Meeting Room.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, October 5, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Campus Worship: Hope and Hospitality
Lean in for this campus worship sponsored in partnership with Latina Student Alliance (LSA) and listen as Anton Flores-Maisonet tells "stories of hope and hospitality" from his years of founding and working with Casa Alterna. He will draw from his book, Welcome, Friends: Stories of Hope and Hospitality with Immigrants. Casa Alterna, in Atlanta, GA, practices radical hospitality and faithful resistance—welcoming vulnerable immigrants into housing and community, and standing with them in solidarity. Love crosses borders!
Anton Flores-Maisonet (he/él) is the Founding Director of Casa Alterna. He and his spouse, Charlotte are Friends-in-Residence at Atlanta Friends Meeting. A social worker, spiritual director, and author of Welcome, Friends: Stories of Hope and Hospitality with Immigrants (2025), Anton’s work reflects the conviction that hospitality can be resistance, that accompaniment nurtures justice, and that love crosses borders.
Campus Worship is an invitational space for gathered worship in Christian…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANQRH.
Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM.
Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
Lunch with Anton Flores
Lunch with Student Chaplains, Y-Serve leaders, Peace Fellowship.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Y-Serve. Event Locator: 2026-AANXAR.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM.
Northlawn, Room 005 East Dining Room.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Dashain-Tihar, Sep 22-Oct 1
A Nepalese proverb states that when people come together, the bitter becomes sweet. That is especially true during the most important holidays of the Nepalese calendar, Dashain and Tihar, a 35-day festival cycle that falls during the months of October and November. Avilasha Giri, undergrad student from Nepal (2024 Interview),
Dashain, the harvest festival, spans 15 days during which Hindus honor various manifestations of the Goddess Durga and celebrate her triumph over evil forces. Tihar, the Festival of Lights, begins two weeks later. Tihar pays reverence to important animals in Nepalese culture – specifically the crow, dog, cow, and ox – with the final day reserved for celebrating the bond between siblings.
The festival cycle of Dashain-Tihar centers on celebrations with family and friends in one’s hometown. There is a strong cultural expectation to worship in the family’s chosen temple. Children and youth receive blessings and gifts from their elders. Special foods such as whole,… .
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANBZC.
Sunday, October 11, 2026, 8:00 AM.
Hymn Sing
Hymn Sing meets every-other-week on Sundays at 7pm in Martin Chapel. All are welcome!
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life. Event Locator: 2026-AANWDA.
Sunday, October 11, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Seminary Building, Room 213 Kitchenette, Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, October 12, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Celebration Student Worship Service
Celebration is a student-led Christian worship service featuring praise songs, scripture and reflection. It is held every two weeks on Sunday evenings from 7-8 p.m. The services are open to everyone.
Celebration takes place in UC 177 (lower level University Commons - south entrance).
For more information and/or to get involved, contact the Celebration Leadership Team at celebration@emu.edu.
1 Engage Point available beginning September 20.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANVWJ.
Sunday, October 18, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 177 Meeting Room.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, October 19, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Y-Serve Fall Break Trip Opportunities
What are you doing for Fall Break 2026?
The EMU Y-Serve club is offering two opportunities for learning and community volunteering hosted by partner organizations over Fall break. Sign up here.
A $50 non-refundable deposit is needed to secure a spot. Those who pay in full and have all paperwork turned in by Friday, October 2 will save $25 on the total cost. Pay cash in the Student Life Suite or with a credit card in the business office. The two forms can be picked up in the Student Life Suite and returned there. If the cost is a barrier for you, talk with EMU Chaplain Brian Martin Burkholder about a possible scholarship to help cover the cost.
Washington Semester trip (Washington, D.C.) - Oct. 22-24 (cost: $125) Looking for a fun and meaningful adventure for your fall break? Join Y-Serve Oct. 22-24 for a trip to Washington, DC! Hosted by the EMU Washington Semester, we will be volunteering with local organizations, going to see a play, and getting to know sides of DC that we haven’t seen before.…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Y-Serve. Event Locator: 2026-AANVMB.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 5:00 PM – Sunday, October 25, 2026, 2:00 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, October 22, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Thadingyut - October 25-27
The Thadingyut Festival, also known as the Lighting Festival in Myanmar, is a cherished cultural and religious observance that takes place on the full moon day of the Burmese lunar month of Thadingyut. This festival is the second most popular festival in Myanmar/Burma after Thingyan which is Burmese Water Festival.
This three-day festival marks the end of Buddhist Lent, a period of deep reflection and meditation for monks. Thadingyut Festival is a time when Myanmar truly comes alive. Streets, homes, and public buildings are adorned with colorful electric bulbs and candles, symbolizing the three stairways of the Buddha’s descent from Tavati?sa Heaven after delivering the Abhidhamma teachings to his mother, Maya. Beyond the visual spectacle, Thadingyut carries deep spiritual meaning, celebrating the profound wisdom enshrined in the Buddha’s teachings. During these days, Buddhists pay their respects to monks and offer gifts at pagodas and monasteries. Young people express their gratitude to elders through…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANLBL.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 6:15 PM.
Full Moon Gift Gathering
All are invited to gather on the EMU campus hill (or Discipleship Center if raining) for a time of shared hope and connection. Bring a "gift" or simply come to receive gifts.
What is a gift? Anything that is a balm to your soul: a poem, song, scientific discovery, hopeful encounter, art, a new recipe, anything that takes just 1-3 minutes to share.
All ages, faiths, and no faith welcomed. There will be no pre-screening or censorship, but please respect the potential of young ears present.
Campfire and water to drink provided. Bring your own water bottle and chair or blanket.
Please consider walking or parking farther away so that those with accessibility needs can park closest for easy walking.
This gathering is co-sponsored by the EMU Office of Faith and Spiritual Life and Community Mennonite Church.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life. Event Locator: 2026-AANPCX.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Discipleship Center, Room 101, Discipleship Center, Hill.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Campus Worship: Tech Peace for Congo
Is there a faithful practice of tending justice amidst mineral extraction for our much cherished tech needs and desires? What are the needs of impacted families and communities in the mineral rich yet impoverished Democratic Republic of Congo? What are the power and equity issues at play? Gather with Rodrigue Makelele '20, founder of Tech Peace for Congo, and Vijana Africa, as he speaks about a technology justice initiative and how it connects with power, equity, faith, and our responsibility to communities directly affected by conflict and extraction.
Campus Worship is an invitational space for gathered worship in Christian traditions and a variety of styles. Campus Worship is held in Martin Chapel (Seminary Building) on Wednesday mornings every other week scheduled opposite of Convocation.
Read more here about campus worship and other worship services on campus.
2 Engage Points,
This event will be livestreamed on EMU's YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@EasternMennoniteUniv/streams and will…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANQRJ.
Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM.
Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
All Saints Day
All Saints’ Day is a day to honor the lives and legacies of saints and holy figures who have inspired generations through their faith, compassion, and service. Observed through prayer, reflection, and community gatherings, this day encourages us to celebrate lives dedicated to goodness, courage, and spiritual guidance.
All Saints Day always takes place on November 1.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJST.
Sunday, November 1, 2026, 7:00 AM.
Dia de los Muertos, November 1-2
Dia de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) is a holiday traditionally celebrated on November 1 and 2, though other days, such as October 31 or November 6, may be included depending on the locality. The multi-day holiday involves family and friends gathering to pay respects and remember friends and family members who have died. (Wikipedia),
Future dates for Dia de los Muertos include: Nov 1-2, 2026, Nov 1-2, 2027, Nov 1-2, 2028, Nov 1-2, 2029.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJSV.
Sunday, November 1, 2026, 7:00 AM.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, November 2, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Summer Camp Luncheon
Students, take this opportunity to have lunch with different camp representatives (see list of camps below) from 12:10-1pm in the East Dining Room, sponsored by EMU's Faith and Spiritual Life office. Meal tickets are available for those who need them.
Camps participating in the Summer Internship and Work Fair and Summer Camp Luncheon include:
(list coming closer to the date).
Organization: Student Life. Categories: Harrisonburg Campus, Student Life, Spiritual Life. Event Locator: 2026-AANWRW.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, November 5, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Dashain-Tihar, Nov 6-10
A Nepalese proverb states that when people come together, the bitter becomes sweet. That is especially true during the most important holidays of the Nepalese calendar, Dashain and Tihar, a 35-day festival cycle that falls during the months of October and November. Avilasha Giri, undergrad student from Nepal (2024 Interview),
Dashain, the harvest festival, spans 15 days during which Hindus honor various manifestations of the Goddess Durga and celebrate her triumph over evil forces. Tihar, the Festival of Lights, begins two weeks later. Tihar pays reverence to important animals in Nepalese culture – specifically the crow, dog, cow, and ox – with the final day reserved for celebrating the bond between siblings.
The festival cycle of Dashain-Tihar centers on celebrations with family and friends in one’s hometown. There is a strong cultural expectation to worship in the family’s chosen temple. Children and youth receive blessings and gifts from their elders. Special foods such as whole,… .
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANBZD.
Friday, November 6, 2026, 8:00 AM.
Diwali
Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, with variations celebrated in other Indian religions. It symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance". Wikipedia,
Graduate student Dhruv Mandal mentioned memories of many candles and firecrackers during the celebration of Diwali.
Upcoming dates for Diwali are October 29, 2027; October 17, 2028; November 5, 2029; October 26, 2030.
You can access the complete Multifaith Religious and Cultural Holidays Calendar here.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJDR.
Sunday, November 8, 2026, 7:00 AM.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, November 9, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Campus Worship - Search for a Blessing
Daniel (Dan) Shenk '71 shares reflections on formation, faithfulness, justice, and companioning from his recent memoir, Search for a Blessing: A Gay Man's Journey from a Mennonite Missionary Childhood to the Streets of AIDS Activism.
Campus Worship is an invitational space for gathered worship in Christian traditions and a variety of styles. Campus Worship is held in Martin Chapel (Seminary Building) on Wednesday mornings every other week scheduled opposite of Convocation.
Read more here about campus worship and other worship services on campus.
2 Engage Points,
This event will be livestreamed on EMU's YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@EasternMennoniteUniv/streams and will continue be available for viewing at https://www.youtube.com/@EasternMennoniteUniv.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANQRK.
Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM.
Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, November 16, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, November 17, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Campus Worship - Spying on Jesus
Explore the historical Jesus in Spying on Jesus, a novella by pastor and author Ryan Ahlgrim, is the authors "attempt to imaginatively reconstruct the ministry and message of Jesus with as much historical verisimilitude and plausibility as (possible), based on decades of research. It’s also an opportunity ... to dig deeper into the meaning of Jesus’ message by having the narrator be a skeptic who is constantly challenging what Jesus is saying (he’s also a spy for the government!). My hope is that this imaginative story helps people see Jesus in surprising ways that challenge ... assumptions about how to live and what to live for."
Campus Worship is an invitational space for gathered worship in Christian traditions and a variety of styles. Campus Worship is held in Martin Chapel (Seminary Building) on Wednesday mornings every other week scheduled opposite of Convocation.
Read more here about campus worship and other worship services on campus.
2 Engage Points,
This event will be livestreamed…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANQRL.
Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM.
Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, November 19, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, November 23, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Loy Krathong, November 5-6
Loy Krathong, also named Festival of Lights, is a Thai Buddhist festival honoring the water goddess. For the Thai Buddhists, this holiday signifies letting go and committing to a fresh start. Paper lanterns are floated away to release negativity and welcome the new year. ,
It is observed on the full moon of the 12th month of the Thai lunar calendar, usually in November.
Interview with EMU Associate Professor, Heike Peckruhn,
During Loy Krathong, decorative baskets (krathong) made with leaves and flowers hold a lantern (candle) and food offering. This is floated (loy) into a river or pond with a wish. The holiday has various meanings attached to it. For Heike, this connects her to her mother’s culture. “This holiday fills a spiritual gap of ancestor remembrance that is without resonance among Christian holidays.”
Upcoming dates of Loy Krathong are November 13-14, 2027; November 1-2, 2028; November 21, 2029; November 10, 2030.
You can access the complete Multifaith Religious and Cultural…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJDS.
Tuesday, November 24, 2026, 5:00 PM – 11:59 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, November 26, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Advent, November 29 - December 24
Advent is a season observed in most Christian denominations as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Christ at Christmas and the return of Christ at the Second Coming. Advent is the beginning of the liturgical year in Western Christianity. Wikipedia,
"The Christian season of Advent begins not in clarity or comfort, but in the dark. The days grow shorter. The nights stretch longer. And both personally and collectively, it can feel like we are riding into a strong headwind. Progress can feel slower than we want—even when we are doing meaningful, faithful work. Advent does not deny the resistance we face. It teaches us how to live faithfully within it. We light candles not because the darkness can be resolved, but because light is dependable. The promise of Advent is that we are not alone as we move through it.
"Pause and notice the light already present in your life: the people who steadied you, the growth you didn’t expect, the strength you discovered…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJDT.
Sunday, November 29, 2026, 7:00 AM.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, November 30, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Hanukkah, December 4 - 12
Hanukkah is often called the Festival of Lights — a time of warmth, joy, and illumination during the darkest season of the year. This eight-day holiday invites Jews around the world to pause, gather with family and friends, and kindle light in both their homes and their hearts.
Each night, as Jews light a candle on the hanukkiah, they reflect on resilience, hope, and the power of light to overcome darkness.
(from https://ifcmw.org/),
The following is from an interview with Courtney Joyner, EMU faculty:
Hanukkah is a minor holiday. There is nothing in rabbinical literature (Talmud) that requires you to observe it. However, during the last century, the celebration of Hanukkah in the United States has transformed from a minor festival into one of American Jews’ most widely observed holidays. “Christmas became increasingly central in 19th-century America, the day for giving gifts to children, eventually becoming a national holiday. As a result of all that, Hanukkah was infused with a vast new energy,…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJDW.
Friday, December 4, 2026, 5:00 PM.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, December 7, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, December 8, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Campus Worship Christmas Stories & Songs
Many of us are beginning to prepare for Christmas, either by observing Advent, an extended season of preparation, or in other ways. This morning we will celebrate and share some of the stories and songs of Christmas with musicians __________; student chaplain and seminary student readers, and _______ sharing reflections on the central message of Christmas.
Campus Worship is an invitational space for gathered worship in Christian traditions and a variety of styles. Campus Worship is held in Martin Chapel (Seminary Building) on Wednesday mornings every other week scheduled opposite of Convocation.
Read more here about campus worship and other worship services on campus.
2 Engage Points,
This event will be livestreamed on EMU's YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@EasternMennoniteUniv/streams and will continue be available for viewing at https://www.youtube.com/@EasternMennoniteUniv.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Worship, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANQRM.
Wednesday, December 9, 2026, 10:15 AM – 11:05 AM.
Seminary Building, Room 215 Martin Chapel, Seminary Building, Room 218 Fellowship Area.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, December 10, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
FCA Meeting
A place with athletes to speak about their walk with God. (Everyone is welcome),
Location: UC 211/212,
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWKT.
Monday, December 14, 2026, 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
"Who is Jesus?" Bible Study
Join a weekly Discovery Bible Study led by EMU Faith and Spiritual Life Affiliate, Carol Tobin.
Discovery Bible Study is a safe place to see for yourself what the Bible says.
Location: Campus Center Greeting Hall (1st floor),
1 Engage Point.
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Faith & Spiritual Life, Spiritual Renewal, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWPT.
Tuesday, December 15, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
ENC Purple
Organization: Faith and Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, EMU Engage. Event Locator: 2026-AANWGT.
Thursday, December 17, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
University Commons, Room 211 Conference Room.
Christmas Day
Many people in the United States, and other places, celebrate Christmas Day on December 25. The day celebrates Jesus Christ's birth. (timeanddate.com),
Excerpts from interview with EMU student, Marciella Shallomita, below.
"Christmas has always been a busy and beautiful holiday that I grew up celebrating. When I started being involved in ministry with the worship team and children’s ministry, the week of Christmas was always a busy week with rehearsals, church events, and more. However, looking at the holiday itself, Christmas was always a time of remembering how God came on earth as one of us, human, to redeem us and deliver us. Jesus didn’t come into the world as a king of some land, but came to earth in the most humble way possible. I value this holiday as it brings many people together in the church. Various members who have been busy with work and have not attended church usually come on this day.
"For many, this time of year might be a time to have family reunions and have meals together, but…
Organization: Faith & Spiritual Life. Categories: Spiritual Life, Center for Interfaith Engagement, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Interfaith Calendar. Event Locator: 2025-AANJDV.
Friday, December 25, 2026, 7:00 AM.