December 2022
have a restful break!
Greetings Everyone!

On behalf of all the staff and affiliates of the Office of Spiritual Life, I want to wish you rest and the ability to pause in the midst of winter break to reflect on all good things. Should you celebrate one of the many holidays coming up, I also wish you joy! I have a quote in my office from Desmond Tutu, "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all the darkness." For me, having the sun go down so early makes these winter pandemic days seem long. Listening to the news and hearing of the pain in the world can also get me down. I lean on my spiritual core and look to the people around me to be my spark. May you too be filled with the hope that lets you see the light despite all the darkness.

In light and love,
Hilary
Director of Spiritual Life and Chaplain to all
a few updates...
Searching for students to join the 2023 Baccalaureate Planning Committee
Looking for students interested in shaping this annual ritual! Senior Baccalaureate offers the graduating class and their loved ones a space for celebration, reflection, and community at a sacred moment of transition. We will start meeting at the end of January.


Curious or interested?
Contact Clara: claradaikh@lclark.edu
Interested in leading a Spiritual Life themed New Student Trip?
We're planning an NST for August 2023! Currently looking for enthusiastic current students or recent grads to help plan and lead this Portland-based trip. More info.


Please reach out to claradaikh@lclark.edu with questions.
The Meditation and Prayer Room is always open for students to use for their reflective practice. The space will be open for use over break whenever the building is open. Contact us with questions.
We also have free tea, coffee, and cozy space for anyone and everyone to enjoy. Please come make yourself welcome anytime.
upcoming holidays
Dec. 19 Hanukkah -- Jewish
first of eight days, commemorates the recovery of Jerusalem and subsequent rededication of the Second Temple in the 2nd century BCE; commonly observed by lighting candles on a menorah

Dec. 21 Winter Solstice (Northern Hemisphere)
occurs when the Earth's tilt reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun; often celebrated with festivals involving dancing, singing, and lights

Dec. 21 Yule -- Pagan and Wiccan
first of twelve days, originally observed by the Germanic peoples and occurs in relation to the winter solstice; celebration of the re-appearance of the sun and the land's rebirth

Dec. 25 Christmas -- Christian
an annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ

Dec. 26 Kwanzaa -- African-American Culture
first of seven days, based on African harvest festival traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa; celebrates African heritage, unity, and culture through dance, song, and food