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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in these posts are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily shared by CRSL or by Smith College.
Category Archives: Holidays
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
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
Posted in History, Holidays, Newsletter Articles, Student Orgs
Tagged food, Jewish, music, Passover, Smith College Jewish Community
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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
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
Posted in Holidays, Programs & Events, Student Posts
Tagged Christianity, music, Vespers
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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
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
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
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
The Power of Good Food
What’s a holiday without food? From Thanksgiving turkey to a Fourth of July cookout, certain dishes are symbolic of a national holiday. Regardless of what you celebrate, food is an opportunity to socialize with friends and family, to communicate love … Continue reading
Posted in Holidays, Student Articles, Student Reflections
Tagged food, stress/relaxation
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Christmas as an Interfaith Holiday
Perhaps we can look at Christmas, as it is celebrated in the U.S, as an Interfaith Holiday, in that its rituals are not drawn from just one religious tradition. Advent, the season that leads up to Christmas in the Christian … Continue reading