SSW students encounter much this summer. They learn about the psyche, and are immersed in a deep empathy with the suffering of others. They are asked by others and they ask themselves to question so many places within. Students are challenged on all levels to stretch and grow.
A tool that can help is Spiritual Direction. Spiritual Direction is space set aside to look at the spiritual/soul issues that can arise during the intense summer learning period. The use of contemplation, deep listening, and compassionate speaking help to clarify the path that one has chosen to walk.
Rhonda Shapiro-Rieser is the spiritual consultant to the Smith School for Social work. She has a D.Min in Spiritual Direction and is trained as an interfaith spiritual director. To schedule a time to chat contact her at rshapirorieser@smith.edu.
Ramadan Mubarak! This year the holy month of Ramadan runs June 6 - July 5. It is a time of fasting, spiritual renewal and deep reflection for Muslims worldwide. Alternative dining arrangement are available for students who are fasting (see Buzz post: Ramadan Dining Accomodations). Muslim students, staff and faculty are invited to use the prayer facilities at the Helen Hills Hills Chapel including the first floor sanctuary; Bodman Lounge, the Reading Room, and Blue Room on the lower level, for prayers and readings. The Washburn Prayer Space in central campus is also available to anyone in the Smith community. If you would like access to the Washburn Prayer Space, contact Dean of Religious Life Jennifer Walters at jwalters@smith.edu.
There will be a prayer space in Washburn House near Nielson Library that students will have OneCard access to.
Any student or Smith OneCard holder can use the space for any kind of prayer. They must have their card activated. For OneCard access, please contact Jennifer L. Walters or Kim Alston.