Temple University is a private, nonsectarian research university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1884 as a night school for working-class students. Today, Temple is a major research university with over 40,000 students from all over the world.
Religious Affiliation
Temple University is not affiliated with any particular religion. However, the university has a long history of religious tolerance and diversity. In 1895, Temple became the first university in the United States to establish a department of religion. Today, Temple offers a variety of courses on religion, including courses on Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
Religious Life on Campus
Temple University has a vibrant religious life on campus. There are over 40 religious organizations on campus, representing a variety of faiths. These organizations offer a variety of programs and activities, including worship services, study groups, and social events.
Temple University Hillel
Temple University Hillel is the largest Jewish student organization on campus. Hillel offers a variety of programs and activities, including Shabbat services, Jewish holidays, and social events. Hillel also provides support for Jewish students, including academic advising, counseling, and financial aid.
Muslim Student Association (MSA)
The Muslim Student Association (MSA) is the largest Muslim student organization on campus. The MSA offers a variety of programs and activities, including Jummah prayers, Islamic holidays, and social events. The MSA also provides support for Muslim students, including academic advising, counseling, and financial aid.
Catholic Campus Ministry
The Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) is the largest Catholic student organization on campus. The CCM offers a variety of programs and activities, including Mass, confession, and social events. The CCM also provides support for Catholic students, including academic advising, counseling, and financial aid.
Protestant Campus Ministry
The Protestant Campus Ministry (PCM) is the largest Protestant student organization on campus. The PCM offers a variety of programs and activities, including worship services, Bible studies, and social events. The PCM also provides support for Protestant students, including academic advising, counseling, and financial aid.
Religious Accommodations
Temple University provides a variety of religious accommodations for students. These accommodations include:
- Prayer spaces: There are prayer spaces available on campus for students of all faiths.
- Dietary accommodations: Temple University Dining Services offers a variety of halal, kosher, and vegan food options.
- Academic accommodations: Students can request academic accommodations for religious observances, such as excused absences for religious holidays.
Conclusion
Temple University is a diverse and inclusive community that welcomes students of all faiths. The university provides a variety of religious accommodations and support services for students.