Campus religious groups cater to students’ spiritual needs

Spiritual growth and development can help students stay grounded and contribute to overall academic success. Having a place to gather and worship can also make the transition to college life easier.

That is the message from leaders of campus religious organizations and students themselves. Whether looking to connect with those who share their faith or seeking something new, students can find a welcoming group at FIU.

“Being a student on campus is a very critical time,” said Rabbi Levi Friedman of ChabadFIU. “It’s the first time you’re independent, and it’s a time that previously held religious beliefs are questioned and challenged. It’s a time for students to think and reflect and find their personal way.”

Friedman and ChabadFIU offer Jewish students a chance to deepen both their knowledge of and commitment to Judaism. “We hope to be there to continue the dialogue with them as they explore,” he said.

To meet students’ needs, ChabadFIU holds non-credit classes and “lunch and learn” sessions on campus on a variety of topics and will soon introduce an eight-week program called Sinai Scholars that will offer an in-depth look at Judaism. Weekly services and Shabbat dinners are held just a half-mile from the Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC), as will be services for the upcoming High Holy Days. For the annual Festival of Sukkot, which begins on Sept. 30, a sukkah – a decorated, three-sided dwelling – will be erected on campus. (source news.fiu.edu)