News

By Dara Harper

Rabbi Ethan Bair and Imam Amir Durić, chaplains at Hendricks Chapel, model how friendship and understanding can transcend and transform adversity. Through the Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship they co-founded, Bair and Durić have helped the Syracuse University campus community unlock the potential of religious and spiritual diversity, and their shared efforts are receiving national recognition.

Each year, Interfaith America, founded by Eboo Patel and known as one of the nation’s premier interfaith organizations, chooses exemplary leaders as Interfaith Innovation Fellows. Out of over 200 applicants across the country, both Durić and Bair were chosen. The Fellowship awards grant funding to leaders with an inspirational vision for social change. Durić and Bair will network with cohort members, learn from one another’s projects, participate in a retreat geared toward professional development, and work with mentors at Interfaith America. Along with Durić and Bair, nine other Fellows representing various worldviews and projects were also named as Fellows.

After Bair and Durić first met at a Hendricks Chapel retreat in 2022, they perceived potential not just for their friendship but for the opportunities to continue the interfaith work they both valued. “Interfaith work has always been a priority for me,” said Bair. “Amir and I really only knew each other for a year before we created this Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship and applied for our first grant from Interfaith America. I’ve been an ordained rabbi for 15 years and have dedicated myself to interfaith work in every position I’ve held. What’s new is being able to work with an ordained Muslim imam who shares so many of my values. That is a blessing.”

Durić completed his undergraduate degree in Sarajevo, Bosnia, which is known for its religious and spiritual diversity. In one part of the city, you can locate a mosque, synagogue and cathedral all on one city block. However, when he attended the Hartford International University for Religion and Peace seminary in Connecticut, he was able to observe interfaith dialogue in practice. Durić remembered visiting campus when two friends (one Jewish, one Muslim) came to speak about a summer project. Their organization in California visited the Middle East to bring together Jews, Muslims and Christians. “I was like, wow, this is really powerful. They are investing time, and resources just to invite people to have a meal together,” said Durić. “So when Rabbi Bair joined Syracuse University, I felt we could team up, and that was really a blessing.”

A Friend for Virtue and Creating Connections for Students

According to Bair, in Jewish tradition there are teachings about finding a mentor, acquiring a friend, and giving everyone the benefit of the doubt. “There are a few different versions of friends, and the top level is a friend for virtue. I feel like Amir and I are friends for virtue,” said Bair. “Our friendship helps us become better people. We talk about our values, our vision for our own chaplaincies, and also for what we can do together.”

Bair and Durić’s friendship extends into their work as chaplains in various ways. As chaplains serving minority religious groups, the pair have a unique opportunity to create more understanding between their respective communities. Bair notes that their partnership and fellowship are focused on creating intentional space between two communities that rarely meet each other. “There are so many unique similarities between Jews and Muslims, such as dietary rules and holidays that follow the lunar calendar,” he said. “And, of course, there are differences as well.”

What’s Next?

The imam and rabbi have already implemented the Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowship, which has created support and understanding during an undoubtedly challenging year for their students. Now, the two are seeking to create a Living Learning Community (LLC) in which Muslim and Jewish students can live communally in a residence hall. They hope the LLC will build the foundation for shared communities, lasting friendships, understanding, and imagination. Syracuse University offers over 25 LLCs, such as “Arts and Expression,” “Education,” and “Science and Technology.”

Durić and Bair will travel to Chicago for a retreat with the other Interfaith Innovation Fellows in mid-November. In addition to the work they’ll be doing with their Interfaith America cohort, they’ll be working on their second round of Jewish-Muslim Dialogue Fellowships and creating opportunities for their students to build relationships and support their communities through kindness and service.

Both Bair and Durić are grateful for their experience at Hendricks Chapel and the support they receive from both the Chapel and Syracuse University. “When we enter spaces that are not Hendricks Chapel, I recognize how challenging it is what we’re doing. And yet, I am very comfortable here and I feel so much support for the kind of work and relationships that we build. The entire team of Hendricks is supportive and it’s an example of helping across the boundaries of religion, of worldviews, of race, of whatever we can think of,” said Durić. “Hendricks Chapel is an example of how it looks when we elevate ourselves and go beyond those boundaries that often limit what we can do.”

For more information on Hendricks Chapel’s chaplaincies and programs, visit the website or call 315.443.2901.

When an anonymous donor family pledged $1 million to Hendricks Chapel and issued a challenge to inspire other donors to match it, no one could foresee the extraordinary outpouring of support for what is widely known as the spiritual heart of Syracuse University. The donor family promised an additional $1 million if the challenge could be met. Since last March, more than 2,500 donors stepped up to meet—and exceed—the challenge, raising $1,757,496.

That brings the total funds raised as part of this campaign to more than $3.7 million, significantly amplifying the impact of the initial pledge. “Hendricks Chapel is such an important part of the Syracuse experience for not only our students and alumni, but for faculty, staff, parents and friends,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “This outpouring of support is the direct result of the good work Hendricks Chapel does every day to foster belonging, friendship and acceptance within our campus community. It is truly in the spirit of Hendricks Chapel that so many who benefited from its programs made gifts to support a strong interfaith community for the next generation of students.”…

Read more in the full SU News story!

Thursday, September 26, 2024, By Kelly Homan Rodoski

Richard “Dick” Phillips G’63, G’65, dean emeritus of Hendricks Chapel who led the chapel through the 1980s and 1990s, died July 10 in Colorado. He was 90.

A native of Missouri, Phillips earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Northwest Missouri State University in 1957. He earned a master’s degree in theology from Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, in 1960 and became a Methodist minister.

…

Read the full story in SU News!

Portrait of Richard “Dick” Phillips that is displayed in the entryway of Hendricks Chapel

By Dara Harper

To foster peace and understanding through religious and spiritual life, the chaplains and staff of Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University hosted an Interfaith Day of Service and Learning on Sunday, Sept. 1.  

Beginning with a luncheon at Hendricks Chapel, more than 25 student leaders—representing various religious and spiritual practices and identities—reflected on questions posed by Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. To build curiosity and connectedness, Dean Konkol asked, “What was your first memory of religion?” and then followed up, “What was your first memory of religious difference?”

“The questions seemed simple at face value, but they turned into deep, thoughtful conversations. I learned that many share the same basic values as me, just with different names depending on their faith,” said Adam Baltaxe ’25.

The conversations created a dynamic environment for students, faculty, and staff in attendance. Following lunch, the group boarded a bus to visit We Rise Above the Streets Recovery Outreach Center, a local non-profit organization that assists those in need of food, clothing, housing, and resources.

“Everybody’s here for one reason: to make this world a better place,” said Al-amin Muhammad, founder of We Rise Above the Streets. “What you’re doing today, please don’t take this lightly. All these products are going to families: children, moms, and dads. So, put some love in them, okay!?” To assist with making care packages for local community members, the students placed several hygiene items such as toothpaste, deodorant, tissues, shampoo, and more into brightly colored gift bags.

Anna Dyjach ’28, a first-year student at the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, was excited to attend this type of event during her first week of classes at Syracuse University. “Making hygiene bags and getting to know others at Syracuse through the Interfaith Day of Service and Learning was a highlight of my week. I would love to participate in this program again!”

Hendricks Chapel’s Student Interfaith Engagement Coordinator, Mian Muhammad Abdul Hamid ’25, was instrumental in bringing the groups together. As convenor of the Student Assembly of Interfaith Leaders (SAIL), he regularly meets with students of diverse spiritual practices. “It’s so important for all of us to be part of our community and take the initiative to serve the greater good,” said Abdul Hamid.

The students created more than 100 hygiene bags that were then distributed to families in the Syracuse community. For more information on upcoming Interfaith Days of Service and Learning or to join a service project, visit the Hendricks Chapel website or call 315.443.2901.

Hendricks Chapel, the spiritual heart of Syracuse University, is the student-centered global home for religious, spiritual, moral and ethical life. Established in 1930 as a home for all faiths and place for all people, the chapel hosts 16 chaplains, more than 25 student-led religious and spiritual groups, and sponsors more than 1,900 in-person and online programs for more than 900,000 annual participants. Hendricks Chapel employs student workers, supports musical ensembles, offers support through the Student Opportunity Fund and Food Pantry, and partners throughout the campus community to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. As a central contributor to holistic life and learning at Syracuse University, Hendricks Chapel helps to prepare engaged citizens, scholars, and leaders for participation in a changing global society.

By Adam Baltaxe ’25 and Dara Harper

In August 2024, Imam Amir Durić and Rabbi Ethan Bair of Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University were invited to participate in the Interfaith America Leadership Summit in Chicago. Representing Syracuse University’s Jewish and Muslim communities, they were accompanied by Adam Baltaxe ’25 and Avva Boroujerdi ’25, student representatives from each tradition.

Last year, Syracuse University News and Hendricks Chapel featured a story about the friendship and unique collaboration between Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair, which showcased their efforts in uniting their respective chaplaincies through conversation and community building. The story not only resonated with students and staff at Syracuse but also captured the attention of Interfaith America, a leading interfaith non-profit organization.

This recognition led to a grant from Interfaith America, funding the creation of the Jewish-Muslim Fellowship (JMF) at Syracuse University. This initiative provided a dialogue space for Jewish and Muslim students, alongside Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair, to discuss pressing issues and foster Jewish-Muslim relationships. As a result of its growing national reputation for interfaith engagement, Syracuse University received an invitation to the Interfaith Leadership Summit.

“Spending time with people from diverse backgrounds reminded me that interfaith cooperation and dialogue are about understanding not only others but also ourselves in the context of a broader, pluralistic society,” said Imam Durić. Founded by Eboo Patel, Interfaith America aims to inspire, equip, and connect leaders and institutions to harness the potential of America’s religious diversity.

Over the three days of the summit, attendees participated in interfaith dialogue training alongside representatives from more than 20 universities. The event featured speakers, dancers, singers, and interactive sessions. Imam Durić and Rabbi Bair were interviewed about their collaboration, the JMF, and their future goals. “Connecting with national interfaith leaders was both grounding and inspiring. Engaging with others on Jewish-Muslim dialogue was a highlight,” said Rabbi Bair.

Imam Durić participated in a panel entitled “Holy Envy: Discovering the Sacred Unexpectedly” which focused on encountering beautiful and valuable teachings and traditions through interreligious journeys. Leaders from varying traditions and geographical locations participated in the panel, shared their experiences of holy envy, and invited participants to do the same. “The Interfaith America Leadership Summit underscored the importance of interfaith cooperation, especially in an era of increasing polarization. It inspired me to deepen my commitment to building interfaith relationships. These relationships foster a positive attitude towards each other, enhance our appreciation of diverse worldviews, and help us identify shared values,” said Durić.

Baltaxe and Boroujerdi connected with campus representatives from universities of all sizes and forged strong connections with fellow students and other religious leaders. “A common theme at the summit regarded communicating effectively through difficult topics. I’ve helped others learn to engage in emotional discussions without taking things personally. Following the summit, I was selected as a student advisor for Search for Common Ground’s ‘Blueprint for Belonging’ project. We are working to implement interfaith initiatives at universities nationwide,” said Baltaxe. “I’m excited to build on the ideas from the summit and foster unity both at Syracuse University and across the country.”

For more information about the Jewish Muslim Fellowship and other programs, please visit the Hendricks Chapel website.

Hendricks Chapel, the spiritual heart of Syracuse University, is the student-centered global home for religious, spiritual, moral, and ethical life. Established in 1930 as a home for all faiths and place for all people, the chapel hosts 16 chaplains, more than 25 student-led religious and spiritual groups, and sponsors over 1,900 programs for more than 900,000 annual attendees. Hendricks Chapel employs student workers, supports musical ensembles, offers support through the Student Opportunity Fund and Food Pantry, and partners throughout the campus community to advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. As a central contributor to holistic life and learning at Syracuse University, Hendricks Chapel helps to prepare engaged citizens, scholars, and leaders for participation in a changing global society. For more information, visit chapel.syracuse.edu.

Tuesday, August 6, 2024, By Dara Harper

Diane Schenandoah ’11, Honwadiyenawa’sek (“One who helps them”) will host a Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering on the Kenneth A. Shaw Quadrangle on Monday, Aug. 26, from 4 to 5 p.m.

2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering (Photo by Angela Ryan)

The Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering is an event held on campus to welcome all incoming and returning students, faculty and staff for the 2024-25 academic year, and for all to show respect for the Indigenous people on whose ancestral lands Syracuse University now stands. Schenandoah is a citizen of the Oneida Nation and a Wolf Clan Faithkeeper, as well as staff member in the Barnes Center. The Haudenosaunee Confederacy is comprised of Six Nations: Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca and Tuscarora.

This year’s featured speaker, Wakerahkáhtste Louise McDonald Herne, is a Bear Clan Mother for the Mohawk Nation Council. Wakerahkáhtste presented at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and lectures regularly at universities throughout Canada and the United States on Ratinonhsón:ni philosophies and self-determination regarding the rights of women. Wakerahkáhtste has been the Distinguished Scholar in Indigenous Learning at McMaster University Institute for Innovation and Excellence in Teaching and Learning (MIIETL) and received an honorary doctorate from State University of New York at Canton. Her most recent work includes a feature in the award-winning documentary film, “Without a Whisper: Konnon:kwe” about the Ratinonhsón:ni women’s influence on the women’s rights movement.

Diane Schenandoah, Faithkeeper of the Wolf Clan, Oneida Nation, speaks at the 2023 Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

“This land is sacred. We welcome visitors to be part of this sacred place. Part of our teaching is that no one can own the land, so it’s important to remember that Syracuse University is part of a much bigger picture,” says Schenandoah. “It’s important to acknowledge and recognize that there are Indigenous peoples still here and we are standing in the capital of the Haudenosaunee territory.

At the gathering, speakers and dancers will welcome a new academic year. Hot scones and strawberry drink will be offered. The hot scones are derived from traditional breads and the strawberry drink consists of strawberries, maple syrup and water. “This is significant because strawberries are the leaders of the plants and maples are the leaders of the trees. In this way we honor them,” says Schenandoah.

Schenandoah encourages students, faculty and staff to participate in the Haudenosaunee Welcome Gathering. “We are sharing our culture because the Earth is calling to us to pay attention, we require collective healing, and most importantly, we are inviting our community to live in gratitude,” she says.

For more information on this and other Hendricks Chapel programs and services visit chapel.syracuse.edu.

To further advance academic excellence at a university welcoming to all, Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University is excited to introduce Rev. Jee Hae Song as United Methodist chaplain.

“I am delighted to welcome Rev. Song to our Syracuse University campus community,” said Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “To partner with Bishop Héctor A. Burgos Núñez and the United Methodist Church is a joy, Rev. Song is an outstanding leader, and I look forward to our continued partnership in service to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends.”

Rev. Jee Hae Song is a first-generation immigrant from Seoul, South Korea who moved to Syracuse in 2016 to serve three United Methodist congregations in the Upper New York Conference: St. Paul’s United Methodist and Hope Korean United Methodist churches in Syracuse, and Warners United Methodist Church in Warners, NY. Rev. Song also served as the director of Hope Christian Student Fellowship, a religious and spiritual life group registered with Hendricks Chapel from 2019-2021.

Song was born and raised in Seoul, then moved to the United States in 2012 to further her education. She attended The Candler School of Theology of Emory University in Atlanta, GA where she earned a Master of Divinity in 2015. She also resided in Seattle, WA and Evansville, IN before moving to Syracuse.

As a passionate storyteller, who speaks both Korean and English fluently, she weaves biblical and modern-day stories, inviting participants to strengthen and grow their relationship with God. Rev. Song is passionate about community-building, education, and assisting young adults in navigating life paths.

“I am thrilled to return to Syracuse University and Hendricks Chapel as a chaplain,” said Rev. Song. Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and Friends can meet Rev. Song at the weekly Bible study, the Eat, Pray & Connect dinners, or during her weekly office hours. You can find more about the United Methodist chaplaincy on our website.

As the newest member of a growing and diverse group of chaplains at Hendricks Chapel of Syracuse University, Rev. Song will partner with other chaplains to draw upon Methodist traditions and practices, develop interfaith partnerships, and serve as a resource for the entire Syracuse University campus community.