Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre's drop-in space relocates to the Hall Building

Concordia’s Multi-Faith and Spirituality Centre (MfSC) has moved into a new space and has refreshed its programming with an eye toward helping students connect.

Recently relocated to Hall 608.02, the Centre offers drop-in hours and hosts activities throughout the year.

“Our drop-in space welcomes all students,” says Jen Bourque, MfSC chaplain and coordinator. “It’s a wonderful place to meet people, chat with us or just sit quietly. Our new space is easy to find, right by the elevators and escalators. There is couch seating and a table for anyone who wants to colour or have a cup of tea. The space and our roster of events create opportunities for students to connect with themselves, others and their values.”

All students welcome

Affiliated with the Equity Office, the MfSC is grounded in openness and a commitment to serving all students. Through a range of educational, reflective, social and community-engaged programs, the Centre creates opportunities for meaningful connection and exploration.

One of its most popular offerings is Spirituali-tea, a weekly gathering where students can drop by for tea and conversation. The Body, Breath, Mind: Mindfulness 101 series focuses on wellbeing, while Community, Care and Compassion provides a space for Concordians to come together in times of loss and support one another.

The Centre also helps students engage with Montreal's diverse religious communities. Offered several times a year, sacred site visits introduce participants to different faith traditions and practices. Students who take part in three sacred site visits during the academic year can earn recognition on their co-curricular record by completing a reflection that builds their capacity for religious literacy.

“Concordia is an incredibly diverse community, not only in terms of beliefs and worldviews, but also culture, language, identity and life experience,” says Sonia Masand, interfaith facilitator.

“The university is a microcosm of the broader society. The skills students develop here through meaningful encounters across difference, such as listening, curiosity, dialogue and relationship-building, are skills they will carry with them into their communities, workplaces and lives long after graduation.”

Nurturing relationships

Beyond its own programming, the Centre collaborates with student groups, faith communities, university departments and community organizations to create inclusive opportunities for learning, engagement and volunteerism. These partnerships also support initiatives such as community meals that bring people together across traditions and backgrounds.

“Relationships are central to everything we do,” says Bourque. “We want to foster a sense of connection to self, others and perhaps something greater.”

While students can already take part in a wide range of programs this fall, the MfSC is also looking ahead to one of its signature annual events: the Discover Multi-Faith Fair.

“This is our annual celebration of the incredible diversity that exists at Concordia,” Bourque says. “It brings together people from a wide range of religious, spiritual, cultural and secular backgrounds, creating opportunities for learning, dialogue and connection. Planning is already underway for this year's event, and we're excited to share more details soon.”

Students can drop in at H 608.02 Tuesday through Friday (closed for a short break mid-day). Visit the MfSC website for more information and to view the schedule of events.

Learn more about Concordia's Multi-faith and Spirituality Centre.