Welcoming New Voices: Muslim New Students Tea
The fall semester began with a brisk start and students poured into the Center for Religious and Spiritual Life for events, connection and spiritual practice. The CRSL held a Welcome Party alongside its Generating Justice and Joy program in September – encouraging students to make the Center their home, meet staff, and discuss pertinent issues on their hearts and minds.
Smithies at the New Muslim Student Tea with Sis Kim at the Helen Hills Hills Chapel
One of our get-to-know you events was the Muslim New Students Tea, which presented a warm space to discuss Muslim life on campus. Student leaders and members of various classes joined the Muslim Student Advisor to offer great advice and guidance to our Smith newcomers. They talked about how it can be challenging to make connections in a new environment and shared tips, personal stories, and practical resources to help new students adjust smoothly to campus life.
Creating Sacred Space for Sukkot
The new academic year also coincided with the Jewish High Holidays. If you walked down Paradise Road during late September or early October, you might have spotted this structure near Jordan House and the Kosher Kitchen. It was built for Sukkot, the last in a series of autumn Jewish holidays, where the primary tradition is to dwell in a sukkah (booth). Leaving our sturdy homes to spend time in a temporary shelter reminds us of our vulnerability to the natural world and opens us to our neighbors.
A Sukkah made of bamboo mats and natural organic materials on the Smith campus for the High Holidays
A sukkah requires a roof made of organic material—in this case, bamboo mats. Each year, Facilities assembles the frame for safety and adds lighting inside. Because Sukkot coincided with a severe Nor’easter this year, Facilities anchored the structure with four deep stakes and high-strength green webbing to keep it secure. While students usually decorate the sukkah, those plans were paused to prevent decorations from blowing away in the storm. We extend a hearty thank you to all the Facilities crews who ensured we could observe our holiday safely!
Get Involved with the CRSL
We are always eager to meet new Smithies and support everyone who come through our doors.
. Join us this evening for our second Generating Justice and Joy program of the semester, focused on the them: The Land We Love.
. Learn more about our programs and events on the CRSL Website.