Where do you feel most at home? Where can you be your fullest self?

At the Center for Spiritual Life, we like these questions. We explore these questions specifically in The Studio, a weekly gathering of religious, spiritual, and unaffiliated students. I’m excited to see what unfolds — look for the zine that will emerge later this semester. For me, being my fullest spiritual self often means moving more into my body and less into my head. On February 15, I’ll be leading an embodied spirituality InterPlay workshop. Come join me! For some, feeling most at home or being their fullest self includes practicing their faith or engaging in traditions that connect them to their ancestors and communities. As we move through the coming weeks, may we be mindful and supportive of one another during several important religious seasons/holidays.

Ramadan begins on or around February 17. Muslims around the world observe this holy month through prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn to sunset. The Center for Spiritual Life wants to support all of our observant Muslims during Ramadan while at Lewis & Clark, so please reach out with needs. The Muslim Student Association can also offer support (msa@lclark.edu.) To wish someone well, you can say “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan). It’s kind to be mindful of fasting by avoiding comments about eating or drinking.

Lent begins for many Christians on February 18 with Ash Wednesday. This season of reflection leads to Holy Week and Easter and may include receiving ashes, fasting, or taking on a meaningful practice. The Center for Spiritual Life is offering an “Ashes to Go” in the morning of Feb. 18th and can help connect students to faith communities off campus.

Please reach out if you need religious or spiritual accommodations for housing or other needs, help connecting with a faith community, or simply want a place to be. I’m here for you!

Hilary Martin Himan, Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life