Category Archives: Holidays

Christmas Season Festivities at Smith

To prepare for the Christmas season and wrap up fall semester, a number of events took place at Smith and in the surrounding area including the annual Christmas Vespers concert in John M. Greene Hall, an advent dinner in the … Continue reading

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Ancient Standard Time

In September, Jewish students entered a slightly different time zone—Ancient Standard Time. Coming to school as Smith students, theirs was the season for back-to-school, classes beginning, and maybe Mountain Day. However, as Jewish students, September was also Rosh HaShanah, the … Continue reading

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The Baby Torah

“Do you want a Torah?  It belonged to my great-grandfather. My family is either going to donate it to our synagogue or give it to you.” The year was 2011, and the question came from a student, Emma Cooke, as … Continue reading

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A Smith Haggadah

On the evening of Monday, April 10, the Sanctuary in Helen Hills Chapel was filled with 72 singing, laughing, and reflecting students. The Smith College Jewish Community (SCJC) hosted a Passover Seder. It was the largest, happiest, most energetic ever. … Continue reading

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Spring’s Promise:
A Witch’s Perspective

Spring is the promise of release; of cleansing; of birth waters bearing down on the valley, washing winter into the Atlantic, heralding new life and new beginnings. Early spring’s message can feel like a paradox. Warm sunny days followed by … Continue reading

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Vespers 2016

Smith’s annual celebration of Advent, Vespers, was held two weeks ago in John M. Greene Hall. Smith College Chorus, Glee Club, Chamber Singers, Handbell Choir and Orchestra collaborated to produce the musical portion of the service while members of the … Continue reading

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Diwali Observance

On Sunday, October 30, students from a wide variety of faith backgrounds gathered in Helen Hills Hills Chapel to observe the Hindu festival of lights known as Diwali, or Deepavali. On the steps just outside the doors to the chapel, … Continue reading

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Exploring the Different Sects of Christianity

The history of the Christian church spans over 2000 years and encompasses some splits that have developed into different sects over time. Carol Zaleski, a professor in the religion department, specializes in the philosophy of religion, world religions and Christian … Continue reading

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Easter Sunday Services
Opportunities in the Community

by Kristin Rivers ‘16 During Holy Week and Easter Sunday, students had the opportunity to attend local churches such as St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Edwards (United Church of Christ), St. John’s Episcopal Church and First Churches (United Church of … Continue reading

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Lent Book Club:
Sunday Nights of Conversation and Engagement

A group of students gathered inside Bodman Lounge during Lent the past couple of Sundays to discuss Can You Drink the Cup? by Henri J.M. Nouwen. Each meeting students discussed various passages that stood out to them, leading to deeper … Continue reading

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