The
Wackerlin Center reflects Aurora University’s commitment to be an inclusive
place, in which transformation happens. My
role as Chaplain is to create safe, respectful space in which the AU community
can come together to share and grow the values, convictions and insights which
undergird our lives. Students of all
faiths and none are truly welcome here, in this common quest for meaning. We offer many opportunities for exploration,
celebration and dedication, including:
- Every Tuesday evening, a gathering with food, in which we explore a particular issue or question in our lives or the life of the world: all are welcome!
- Our flagship series, “What I Believe”, in which faculty and staff share their core convictions and the values and beliefs that inform their life and work
- Reflecting the University’s roots and historic identity, Christian worship in Chapel to mark significant moments: the start of the year, Christmas, Ash Wednesday, Easter
- Observation of Jewish holy days and festivals: Rosh Hashanah, Hannukah, Passover, Purim
- Opportunities to share in service and dialogue with other local faith groups
- Retreats and workshops to help us discover our unique purpose and potential in life
- Small group conversations led by students: Bible study, issue-based or denominational groups, prayer triplets
- Engagement in the world’s life: peace vigils, letter-writing campaigns, advocacy and action for justice and dignity for all humanity
In all of this, we need you! Whatever your belief, background or conviction, I hope you’ll play your part in enabling the whole AU community to come together, in faith and action. If you might lead a small group, or help with worship, or facilitate an event, come and talk with me. And, of course, if you simply want to chat about whatever’s going on in your life right now, I’ll be happy to listen.
We’re always the richer when we share our journey with others. Join us as we seek for what matters to us: and then build our lives around it.
Jonathan Dean, University Chaplain
