Jewish Life

The Chaplain's Office views Jewish life as integral to the richness of our interfaith community at OWU.

We provide support and opportunities for Jewish students to explore and deepen their connection to Judaism and to share their religious and cultural heritage with others. Many of the events created by our staff and by OWU Hillel, the Jewish student organization affiliated with Hillel International, are open to all interested students. 

The Chaplains work to empower student leaders in OWU Hillel and to provide support for vibrant Jewish and interfaith opportunities on campus.

We provide assistance for interested students to attend synagogues and events in the central Ohio Jewish community and ensure students have the opportunity to participate in services for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and other holy days. On campus, Shabbat programming is offered twice a month during the academic year. 

Additional events throughout the year include Pizza in the Hut for Sukkot, a Kristallnacht Commemoration, a huge Passover Seder, a Tu B'Shvat Seder, as well as a variety of film screenings and speaker events as issues of interest arise from the students.

The Chaplain's Office provides counsel for Jewish students, staff, and faculty who wish support in personal matters, a friendly ear, or assistance with their Jewish journey. 

We know that it can sometimes be a challenge to observe Jewish traditions amidst a predominantly Christian culture. We are confident that Jewish students are supported in finding the space and resources to flourish both Jewishly and as part of the OWU community.