In addition to supporting faith-based student organizations and their gatherings and events on campus, Campus Ministry offers a wide variety of other activities, often partnering with other campus departments to bring in a speaker or host an event. These activities offer opportunities for students to explore their faith and for interfaith dialogue, but also for connecting with others, mental health awareness and overall student wellness, leadership development, and learning of many forms. 

A few specifics are highlighted below, but the best way to get more detailed information about these and other current happenings is to visit the Juniata Campus Involve page and search "Campus Ministry."

 

Student Small Group Opportunities

Christian Faith Small Group Opportunities

There are various small group opportunities anchored in the Christian faith happening every semester. These groups are a great way to get to know others and dive into learning and conversations toward a particular focus or shared interest. Some ongoing groups include a men’s group and a student-led weekly Bible study.

Every year there are various other groups offered by students, faculty, or campus ministry staff. Some recent groups have included a group for Christian athletes, a prayer study, a year-long overview of the Bible, a group on relationships, and an informal weekly gathering for topical conversations on faith.

International Student Group

International Student Group (ISG) seeks to unify students of all backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs through fostering meaningful friendships. ISG has weekly discussions that seek to answer the fundamental questions of life as well as organizing activities, events, and trips that cater to the interests of international students.

Bahá’í Faith Small Group Opportunities

Are you interested in learning about a spiritual approach to world unity and peace? The Bahá’í Faith, the most recent independent world religion, teaches the oneness of God, the oneness of religion, and the oneness of humanity. Study Circles on a range of spiritual topics provide practical ways to effect positive change in individuals and society. For more information contact Dr. Deb Kirchhof-Glazier, Bahá’í Campus Ministry Affiliate, at kirchhof@juniata.edu.

Interfaith Small Group Opportunities

TGIF Devotional Gatherings on Fridays offer an opportunity to start your weekend by sharing an inspirational story, music, poem, or reading from any spiritual or secular tradition in an open and supportive online environment. Contact Dr. Deb Kirchhof-Glazier at kirchhof@juniata.edu for the link.

 

Service Opportunities

Campus Ministry sponsors or participates in a variety of service opportunities on campus, in Huntingdon, and around the world, often working in conjunction with the Community Engagement Office. Student organizations have partnered with outside organizations such as Operation Christmas Child, Toys for Tots, Angel Tree Prison Fellowship, and the local Habitat for Humanity Chapter, as well as responding to specific requests from churches, social service organizations, or other campus departments, to support local and international needs.

Campus Ministry has regularly sponsored January or spring break service trip opportunities, most recently sending a group to Western North Carolina to do relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

Labyrinths

Walking a labyrinth is an ancient, embodied practice used by various traditions for prayer or meditation. The Class of 2009 gifted the college with a study circle made up of two benches and a 24-foot brick labyrinth in a Chartres replica design with 5 circuits. Located just outside of the Statton Learning Commons, the labyrinth is available for use by all members of the Juniata community.

Additionally, Campus Ministry owns a 32-foot canvas labyrinth that can be laid out in a large indoor space. This labyrinth is used on campus periodically, typically in connection to a specific holiday or campus event. It is also available for use by groups. Contact the Campus Ministry office to inquire.

Baccalaureate

Campus Ministry plans and leads the Baccalaureate Service, one of the longest standing rich traditions at Juniata College, occurring the Friday night just prior to Commencement. Whereas Commencement celebrates the accomplishments of graduates in having gained knowledge and wisdom within an academic discipline, Baccalaureate celebrates the ways in which graduates have grown and been shaped by their experiences at Juniata as a foundation for building lives of meaning and purpose. The Baccalaureate Service is an interfaith service with readings, poetry, and personal sharing all by members of the graduating class representing a variety of faith traditions.