Religion
Freshmen Split on Defunding Police, Other Hot-Button Political Issues
This third installment of The Crimson’s four-part survey of the Class of 2025 examines their beliefs on politics, religion, and Harvard issues, as well as aspects of their lifestyle, such as sex, drugs, mental health counseling, and technology.
Humanist Chaplain Greg Epstein Elected President of University Chaplains’ Organization
Humanist Chaplain Greg M. Epstein will serve as the president of the Organization of Harvard University Chaplains after being selected by more than 30 other chaplains of different faiths.
HUPD Investigating Two Vandalism Incidents at Harvard Hillel Amid Nationwide Rise in Anti-Semitism
The Harvard University Police Department is investigating two incidents of vandalism at the Harvard Hillel building that occurred within two weeks of each other in late May and sparked forceful emails from administrators.
City Council Votes to Terminate Contracts With Companies Allegedly Violating Human Rights, Drawing Criticism from Harvard Jewish Leaders
The Cambridge City Council voted to end its contract with companies that “perpetuate violations of International Human Rights Laws” during a Tuesday meeting that followed more than seven hours of public comment the previous day.
Matthew Potts Appointed as New Memorial Church Minister After Two-Year Search
Matthew Ichihashi Potts will serve as the next Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church and Plummer Professor of Christian Morals beginning July 1, University President Lawrence S. Bacow announced in an email to Harvard affiliates last Friday.
Harvard Chaplains Reflect On A Year of Religious Life in the Pandemic
Before the pandemic struck, Harvard’s religious groups would physically gather to worship, study scripture, perform service work, and enjoy food in each other’s company.
Harvard’s Muslim Students Celebrate Virtual Ramadan with Zoom Prayer Sessions, Care Packages, and New Halal Menu Options
Observing its second Ramadan of the pandemic, the College’s Muslim community is celebrating with virutal programming and enjoying halal meals from Harvard University Dining Services — a new offering that resulted from months of discussion between students and HUDS.
Sikhs and Companions Hold Vigil for Sikhs Killed in Indianapolis Shooting
Sikhs and Companions of Harvard hosted a vigil Sunday night to honor the victims of the recent mass shooting at a FedEx warehouse in Indianapolis, in which four of the eight victims of the attack were Sikh.
Harvard Hillel Executive Director Accuses Cornel West, Supporters of Furthering ‘Anti-Jewish Conspiracy Theory’ in Tenure Controversy
Responding to vigorous campus support for Professor Cornel R. West ’74 — who said last month Harvard declined to consider him for tenure in part due to his outspoken criticism of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians — Rabbi Jonah C. Steinberg, executive director of Harvard Hillel, criticized West for having “egged students on” in “scapegoating and demonizing” Jewish people.
Religious Groups Keep Faith During Pandemic, Remote Academic Year
As the College approaches the first anniversary of sending students home due to the pandemic, students said they have adopted new ways to practice their faith in the Covid-19 era, including attending reduced-capacity services, convening for religious conversations over Zoom, and seeking support from Harvard chaplains.
A ‘Public Enlightenment’: Harvard Divinity School Begins New Program in Religion and Public Life
The Harvard Divinity School launched a new program in Religion and Public Life this month, its first new degree program in 50 years.
Harvard Professors Discuss Role of Religion in the 2020 Election at Divinity School Lecture
Harvard professors discussed the evolving role of religion in the 2020 presidential election in a lecture hosted by the Divinity School Thursday.
Breach at Software Company May Have Compromised Harvard Affiliates' Demographic Data
A data breach at Blackbaud — the maker of a software the University uses for fundraising and donor engagement — may have put Harvard affiliates’ demographic data at risk.
Campus Faith Groups Celebrate Passover and Easter with Zoom Seders and Livestreamed Services
As Jewish and Christian communities around the world celebrate Passover and Easter, campus faith leaders have likewise been tasked with finding innovative ways to bring worshippers together.
Cambridge Religious Centers Rethink Daily Practices in the Wake of Coronavirus Pandemic
Harvard-affiliated religious leaders and Cambridge religious centers are rethinking how they will approach their services and day-to-day conduct in the wake of the global coronavirus pandemic.