Religious Life on Campus

Students at Virginia Cottage

Earlham students gather at the patio behind Virginia Cottage — home of the Office of Campus Ministries.

Earlham's Office of Campus Ministries is rooted in the tradition of the Religious Society of Friends, better known as Quakers. Earlham religion professor Michael Birkel writes in Silence and Witness: The Quaker Tradition, "Friends have always held dear the belief that the Light would bring them into unity. … Because revelation is continuing, new leadings will come, but because the Spirit is consistent, certain principles will prevail. Friends have called these principles 'testimonies' because they witness to the wider world of the power of God to transform individuals and human society."

In that spirit, Campus Ministries is open to any and all students who wish to further their spiritual growth during their time at Earlham. Students are invited to approach the Campus Ministries staff for pastoral care, prayer, and conversation.

There are many opportunities to participate in religious activities and groups on campus, including College Meeting for Worship, Muslim prayer, Shabbat Dinners and nightly silent worship at Ichthys House. The staff of Campus Ministries regularly organizes vigils, special services (such as Yom Kippur, Eid al Fitr, Christmas Candlelight, Baccalaureate) and the annual Religious Emphasis Week in January. Students can also approach Kelly Burk, Director of Campus Ministries, or any other staff member for suggestions on places of worship in Richmond and the surrounding area.