Spirituality Resources & Information

Stevens recognizes the diverse religious backgrounds and values represented in our community and the importance of supporting each other. In the coming days and weeks, members of our community will observe Ramadan (March 22-April 21), Passover (April 5-13), Good Friday (April 7), Easter (April 9), and Eid al-Fitr (April 21-22).

Ramadan

Ramadan is a Muslim religious observation month that includes fasting (including no water) along with increased prayer, charity, reflection, goodwill and working towards being your best self. This year, Ramadan takes place from approximately March 22 – April 21. This month can be challenging for those who go through the day without eating or drinking. We encourage everyone who is not observing to have empathy and understanding. Fasting takes place from before dawn until dusk (approx. 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. at this time of year) and can lead to exhaustion, as students will be adjusting to a lack of food, water, caffeine, and sugar. People will also be adapting to a new sleep schedule and may spend more time in prayer throughout the day. Stevens offers a variety of options and resources for students who are fasting during Ramadan, including to-go containers at Pierce Dining Hall (see a manager on the floor for assistance), the use of the Quiet Space for prayer, and daily Iftar in the Intercultural Space (UCC 2 nd floor) from 7-8 p.m. to break your fast with dates.

Passover

Passover is traditionally observed with two seders (celebratory meals) on the first two nights of the holiday, April 5 and 6. During the entirety of Passover, it is forbidden to eat leavened food (bread, pasta, etc.). Observant Jews do not work for the next 2 days) and ends on April 12-13, when work is also prohibited for observant Jews. Stevens Dining will offer kosher for Passover food options during the holiday.

Good Friday and Easter

Good Friday is observed on Friday, April 7, and Easter is celebrated on Sunday, April 9. Classes will not meet on Friday, April 7, although administrative offices will be open.

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and begins at sundown on April 21. Stevens will host a campus celebration; more details to come.

For More Information

Learn all about campus resources, events and inclusive practices on the Spirituality website. Consider a visit to the Quiet Space on the lower level of the Student Wellness Center for prayer or meditation. Questions? Email the Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at [email protected].

Academic Considerations

  • Give students who are observing Ramadan with fasting the option to take tests at a different time (early morning or late night vs. late afternoon)

  • Please allow students to leave your class for 10 minutes for prayer if requested

Fasting & Meal Times

  • Dining Services will offer to-go containers in Pierce to accommodate the fasting schedule for students with a meal plan

Space for Prayer & Community

  • The Quiet Space on the Ground Floor of the Wellness Center is open for prayer and reflection 24/7

  • The Intercultural Space on the 2nd Floor of the UCC is available for daily Iftar to break your fast with dates from 7-8 p.m.

  • The Muslim Student Association hosts Jummah Prayers every Friday in the UCC Gallery Room from 12-2 p.m.

  • All students, faculty and staff are invited to attend the Interfaith Summit on April 19 th from 3-5 p.m. in the UCC Tech Flex Auditorium

Empathy & Understanding

  • Expressing understanding for friends, students and colleagues can make a positive impact on their experience during this month

  • If you are unsure about how to support Muslim students or colleagues during Ramadan, don’t hesitate to ask them privately if they need anything