Campus Religious Groups
Catholic Newman Community
Newman at Swarthmore provides the liturgical, spiritual, and educational resources of the Catholic Church to Swarthmore students, faculty, administration, and staff. The celebration of the Eucharist on Sundays, mid-week, and special occasions such as Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, and the graduation Baccalaureate makes present the central mystery of Catholic faith. Opportunities for the celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation are frequently available. Theology and Scripture study groups meet regularly, in addition to an annual TriCo Newman retreat. Special programs, speakers and social events are provided as student interest and need direct. Rev. John Ames is the Newman Chaplain.
Kehilah
Kehilah's goal is to further Jewish culture and religion on campus and in the larger Swarthmore community. We will plan and coordinate any programs and activities, and communicate with other Jewish-related groups, in order to achieve this end, keeping in mind that we are an apolitical group. Judaism has many different interpretations and traditions; we attempt to maintain this diversity while integrating them into a cohesive community.
Muslim Students Association
The MSA functions as an open support group providing a support system for its members through regular meetings, establishing regular congregational prayer and connecting Swarthmore's Muslim community with other local and national Islamic organizations and student groups. The MSA also works to educate the larger campus community about Islam and the experiences of Muslims.
Kairos
Kairos is a nondenominational group of seekers rooted in the progressive Christian tradition who support one another in worship, reflection, and spiritual growth. Kairos strives to create a safe space where questions are welcome and individual differences in faith are respected. It is associated with the Protestant Campus Minister and supported by and alliance of area churches called Partners in Ministry. For more information @swatpastor.
Interfaith Interns
The Interns are two students hired by the Dean for Multicultural Affairs to assist in organizing programs for the Interfaith Center. These include interfaith text studies, the annual thanksgiving meal, and Religion and Spirituality Week on campus. They work closely with the Religious Advisors and student groups.
Swarthmore Sangha
Swarthmore Sangha is the Buddhist group on Swathmore's campus. It is led by Buddhist religious advisor Hojin Park. Regular meetings take place to study the practice and teachings of Buddhism.
Swarthmore Christian Fellowship (SCF)
Swarthmore Christian Fellowship is a chapter of the interdenominational Christian ministry InterVarsity. We welcome everyone, from the life-long churchgoer to the curious skeptic, to attend any of our events, which range from whole group meetings to weekly Bible studies (in smaller, more intimate settings) to weekly prayer meetings to weekends away from Swat spent relaxing and learning more about God. We seek to encourage the growth of Christians at Swarthmore, as well as to provide the campus as a whole with a way to explore Christianity in a comfortable and loving environment.
Groups that have existed in the past...
Friends and friends of Friends: Student Quaker Community
Student Quaker Community is a group that meets weekly for Quaker Meeting for Worship (silent worship), discussion, and fellowship. Students are welcome from all religious or spiritual backgrounds, including those with no religious or spiritual background.
Hindu Club of Swarthmore
The HCS fulfills the needs of students who identify with or would like to become more aware of Hinduism. We aim to inform the Swarthmore community and shed light on possible misconceptions about the Hindu faith.