The Spiritual and Religious Life Center (SPARC) is a home on campus for students with an interest in religious and spiritual study, meditation, and exploration. SPARC serves and supports a wide range of student organizations, fellowships, and religious communities throughout Penn’s campus. The center also develops programming to improve interfaith understanding and build meaningful, collaborative relationships across religious differences. Additionally, SPARC provides space for regular prayer, scripture study and meditation sessions for individuals and groups. There is always space for meditation and prayer (including daily Muslim prayer space) and an open and welcoming environment where students can drop in to hang out, study, or nap. At SPARC, everyone is welcome, regardless of religious affiliation.
SPARC’s work falls under three broad headings:
- Chaplains to the University Community: Staff is available to students, faculty and staff for pastoral support, guidance, or informal advising and counseling. The Chaplain, an ordained clergy person, participates in campus ceremonies such as Convocation, Baccalaureate and Commencement and officiates at weddings and campus memorial services.
- At the Heart of Religious Life: The Office serves and supports a wide range of student organizations, fellowships, and religious communities on Penn’s campus. SPARC also develops programming designed to improve interfaith understanding and build meaningful, collaborative relationships across religious differences.
- Committed to Service: The Office of the Chaplain also maintains a range of service programming in partnership with faith and community-based organizations across the city of Philadelphia.