There are seven student religious and spiritual groups on campus. Participation in each group is open to all students. Check out these groups and see how you can meet other students, and engage in spiritual practice and conversation.
Buddhist Meditation Group
The Buddhist Meditation Group of Occidental College is for students of both Buddhist and non-Buddhist backgrounds seeking to encounter the teachings of Gautama Buddha who lived in India over 2,500 years ago. The focus is on Buddhism as it is lived and practiced today, and is aimed to supplement the academic approach of courses offered at the college on the religion. Meditation is conducted in the Zen style. The group meets on Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. for a 20 minute meditation circle, usually in the Chapel in the Upper Herrick building.
Religious Advisor: Rev. Nobuko Miyoshi, Rev. Nobuko Miyoshi
Hillel
Hillel is the center of Jewish life on Occidental’s campus. Hillel provides social, intellectual, and spiritual opportunities for students to explore and celebrate their Jewish identity. Email Hillel@oxy.edu
Religious Advisor: Ben Greenberg, bgreenberg@oxy.edu Student Leader: Danielle Levin, dlevin@oxy.edu
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship
InterVaristy Christian Fellowship is a multi-ethnic community committed to following Jesus and growing in love for God together. We do this through weekly large group gatherings, small group Bible studies, social justice projects and more. Small groups meet throughout the week in various residence halls and locations.
Contact InterVarsity at Occidental: iv@oxy.edu
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Students Association
Contact Lincoln Hale if interested in any Latter-Day Saints programs and events.
Religious Advisor: Lincoln Hale, lincoln.hale@churchofjesuschrist.org
Muslim Student Association
The Muslim Student Association at Occidental College is dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive space for Muslim students on campus. The organization provides opportunities for spiritual practice, community building, and personal growth while fostering an environment where students can engage deeply with their faith. By offering regular gatherings for prayer, discussion, and reflection, the MSA ensures that Muslim students have a place to connect with one another and strengthen their sense of belonging.
In addition to serving as a spiritual home, the MSA is committed to promoting education and dialogue about Islam within the broader campus community. Through events, interfaith collaborations, and awareness initiatives, the group seeks to dispel misconceptions, encourage understanding, and highlight the cultural and religious diversity of the Muslim experience. These efforts contribute meaningfully to the values of inclusivity and mutual respect that define Occidental College.
The MSA also provides a platform for students to explore the intersection of faith and social responsibility. By addressing issues that affect Muslim communities locally and globally, the group encourages members to embody principles of justice, compassion, and service. Through its programs, advocacy, and outreach, the MSA helps enrich campus life while empowering students to live out their values as leaders within and beyond the college.
Religious Advisor: Imam Rushdam Mujahid-Deen, mujahiddeen@oxy.edu, Student Leader: msa@oxy.edu
Newman Catholic Community
The Newman Catholic Community was established at Occidental College in 1921. Rooted in the spiritual tradition of the Roman Catholic faith, we meet weekly for devotion and discussion; mark traditional religious holidays, including All Souls Day, Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Easter; go on twice yearly spiritual retreats to explore our faith; and study scripture and the Christian tradition together.
Religious Advisor: Christopher Negri, negri@oxy.edu Student Leaders: Liliana Madrid Larrañaga, madridlarran@oxy.edu, Itzel Rodarte Muñoz, rodartemunoz@oxy.edu
Progressive Christians Uniting
Progressive Christians Uniting meets for discussion about Christianity. In addition to our weekly meetings, we offer opportunities for students to be engaged in social issues. This may be helping immigrant workers on their organic farms or perhaps protesting unfair propositions. We are open to anyone who would like to use their faith traditions to bring healing to the world. We don’t have all the answers but we are group where together we can explore the questions.
Religious Advisor: Rev. Dr. Susan Young, young@oxy.edu Student Leaders: Ana Byers, abyers@oxy.edu, Claire Wilson-Black, wilsonblack@oxy.edu