- Building the Multi-Faith Center at USC
- Programs and Events
- Health Sciences Campus
- Student Religious Organizations
- Get Connected to USC Religious Groups
- Recognition for Religious Groups
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- Places for Reflection and Prayer
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- Comments/Feedback
Student Religious Organizations
Atheist
The Secular Aliance
Associated with the Center for Inquiry-West
Advisor: Diana Jaramillo, (213) 740-4721
Student leader: Michael Booker
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Kaprielian Hall.
The Secular Alliance seeks to bring together those whose beliefs and moral principles are grounded in rational thought; to promote and define reason, science, and freedom of inquiry in education; and to address political challenges to freedom of thought, action and belief.
Baha'i
Baha'i Student Association (Association for Baha'i Studies at USC)
Affiliated with the Los Angeles Baha'i Center
Director: Randolph Dobbs (323) 933-8291
Student leader: Kevin Merabi
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the University Religious Center, room 205
The Baha'i Campus Association brings together members of the Baha'i Faith and others interested in its principles; seeking the unity of all humanity, facilitating reconciliation between the various religions, promoting the equality of women and men, and implementing Baha'i solutions to the world's social problems.
Buddhist
Buddhist Association of USC
Associated with the Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara
Director: Venerable Aparekke Punyasiri, (818) 768-9382
Student leader: Nick Polk
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 5 p.m., the University Religious Center, Fishbowl Chapel
Soka Gakkai Buddhist Association
Advisors: Danielle Suissa (310) 418-7855
Student leader: Seung-ha Lim
2007-08 Meetings: Every other Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. in Topping Student Center 206.
Soka Gakkai is an American Buddhist organization that promotes world peace and individual happiness, based on the Nichiren school of Mahayana Buddhism. The Soka Gakkai Buddhist Association seeks to encourage each member to attain Buddhahood - the highest potential of the individual, characterized by infinite compassion and boundless wisdom.
Zen Buddhist Association at USC
Associated with the American Zen Association
Advisor: Stanley Yamashiro (213) 740-0336
Student leader: Yi-ping Chang
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m., University Religious Center 205
The Zen Buddhist Association brings together students who practice (or would like to learn) Zen meditation - a form of sitting meditation in which the body, mind, and thoughts are stilled, and inner calm and wisdom sought.
Christian
How do I figure out which of the many Christian groups might be the one for me?Agape Mandarin Christian Fellowship: A Ministry of First Evangelical Church, Glendale
Advisor: Professor Ming-Deh Huang
Student Leader: Ude Lu
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 7:00 p.m., in the Fishbowl Chapel of the University Religious Center
Agape Mandarin Christian Fellowship is a fellowship group meeting weekly in various locations on or near campus for Bible study and worship in Mandarin Chinese, and for hangouts and occasional outreach events.
All Nations Christian Fellowship
Advisor: Ruth H. Chung, (213) 740-3258
Student Leader: Henry Nandelena
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 7 p.m.
All Nations Christian Fellowship is an international, English-speaking community for Christians and also for those who consider themselves spiritual seekers . Through Bible studies and social events, students from all nations have the opportunity to develop friendships and to be challenged towards a deepening faith in God.
Alpha Delta Chi: A Sisterhood for Christ
Advisor: Don Ludwig
Student Leader: Jenna Bagnoli
Facebook Group: "Alpha Delta Chi"
2007-08 Meetings: Monday evenings (contact Jenna for location).
Alpha Delta Chi is a national Christian sorority, with a USC chapter that was founded in 2006. It offers the experience of sisterhood, but with a focus on spiritual mentoring in Christ as well as fun social events within and outside of the Greek communities on campus.
American Baptist Ministries
Affiliated with American Baptist Churches of Los Angeles
University Religious Center 204
Student Contact: Amit Joshi
Director: Aaron Glenn, (213) 740-2674 and Lizzie Fortenberry
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., dinner followed by fellowship and study; Conversational English program Monday through Thursday at 9:15 a.m., University Religious Center 108
American Baptist Ministries offers hospitality and service to international students and their families, with absolutely no obligation that participants join in religious activities. There is a particular emphasis on helping spouses to find a place to belong, whether through learning English together or joining in sewing or other community activities.
Anointed Vessels of Praise: Christian Praise Dance Ministry
Advisor: Viannda Hawkins, (213) 740-2534
Student Leader: Alicia Lowery
2007-08 Meetings: TBA
Anointed Vessels of Praise is a group of dancers who seek to spread the gospel of Jesus through jazz and hip-hop dance, mime, and song.
Armenian Christian Ministries
Affiliated with the Armenian Students Association at USC
Advisor: Father Vazken Movsesian, (818) 244-9696 of the Armenian Church Youth Ministries Center
Student leader: Nayiri Gharibian
2006-07 Meetings: Every other Thursday 5-7 p.m. in the Fishbowl Chapel of the University Religious Center
The Armenian Church professes faith in Jesus Christ according to the traditions of the ancient Orthodox Church. Armenian Christian Ministries offers spiritual support and guidance to Armenian students of all backgrounds through its chaplain, Father Vazken, who represents the Armenian Church on campus.
Asian American Christian Fellowship
Affiliated with the Japanese Evangelical Missionary Society
Directors: Melanie Mar Chow and Bruce Chow (213) 613-0022
Student leader: Kristin Kwan
2007-08 Meetings: Thursday at 7 p.m. in Stauffer Science Hall 100
Asian American Christian Fellowship seeks to reach students, especially Asian Pacific Americans, with the message of Jesus Christ, and to help them grow as disciples and develop their spiritual gifts. Midweek activities include Bible studies, one-on-one discipleship meetings, and service projects, as well as the main Thursday fellowship time.
Athletes in Action: a ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ International
Director: Michael Sylvester, (310) 559-8402
Student leader: Kate Henderson
Web: http://www.aia.com
Facebook Group: "Athletes in Action"
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Heritage Hall Auditorium, prayer and Bible study or guest speaker
The members of Athletes in Action proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ to fellow athletes and others involved in sports. They offer spiritual and character development through Bible studies, social gatherings, and community work, and train athletes to minister to those whom they influence - fans, high school students, etc.
Bellman Chinese Christian Bible Study
Advisor: Chi-Yuan Sun, (213) 740-1738
Student leader: Shanglong Wang
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. (contact Shanglong for location)
The Bellman Chinese Christian Bible Study Group welcomes all Chinese-speaking people interested in Christianity and the Bible. The group studies the Bible together (in Mandarin Chinese). They offer a special welcome to new students coming from overseas who are seeking to adjust to life at USC.
Bridges International: The International Student Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ
Directors: Bob Britton and Leslie Barnes, (626) 405-8810
Student leader: Yuling Hsueh
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 5:30 p.m., University Religious Center 108
Bridges International encourages international students to explore how to have a relationship with God, to grow as Christians through worship and Bible study, to build friendships with other students through trips and weekly meetings, and to reach out to others. Activities are open to all regardless of religious background.
Campus Crusade for Christ
Affiliated with Campus Crusade for Christ International
Director: Greg Triplett, (310) 922-1523
Student leader: Heather Brainerd
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:27 p.m., Salvatori Computer Science Center 101, group praise with live band, Bible teaching, and fellowship; and other social and spiritual activities as announced on website calendar
Campus Crusade for Christ is committed to helping students to grow spiritually in an authentic relationship with Jesus. Campus Crusade offers small group Bible studies, prayer times, retreats and conferences, and summer mission projects, in addition to the larger "727" weekly gathering for fellowship and praise.
Cantonese Christian Campus Group
Associated with Chinese Bible Missions Church
Advisor: Professor Chi Ho Mak, (213) 740-4101
Student leader: Harris Chiu
2007-08 Meetings: Three times a month, 6:15 p.m. in von KleinSmid Center 107
The Cantonese Christian Campus Group, an outreach of the Chinese Bible Missions Church of Los Angeles, provides a comfortable environment in which Cantonese-speaking students may gather in small groups to sing, share, and study the Bible, as well as to engage in social activities.
Catholic Student Association
Director: Father Lawrence Seyer and Anthony Heim, (213) 749-5341
Student leader: Eddie Medina
2007-08 Meetings: Mass on Sundays at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 7:00 p.m., 10:00 p.m., at Our Savior Catholic Center
Christian Artists Network
Advisor: Al Manamtam (310) 574-5700
Student leader: Lily Mathison
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesday at 8 pm in the University Religious Center, room 204.
The Christian Artists Network is an organization for artists and those interested in the arts (from any Christian background or none) to meet for support, friendship, and dialogue, and to engage in artistic activities of various kinds.
Christian Challenge: Knowing Christ and Making Him Known
Director: Neil Walker, (626) 573-5090
Student leader: Mallory Byers
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Salvatori Computer Science Center 101, praise and teaching; also Bible studies in students’ rooms in residence halls as listed on website
Christian Challenge seeks to lift up the name of Jesus Christ, develop Christian leaders, and nurture students in the Christian life that they may be lifelong laborers in the harvest. Historically linked with the Southern Baptist Convention, it is an interdenominational ministry found on 1,200 college campuses in the US.
Affiliated with the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston, MA
Advisor: Diana Jaque (213) 740-2632
Student leader: Kathleen Meek
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., University Religious Center 105, student-led discussions around spirituality
The Christian Science Organization welcomes all earnest seekers of truth. By studying and applying Christian Science to life, the group seeks to understand the underlying spiritual principle governing material laws. Demonstration of spiritual healing as taught by Jesus is a core focus.
Christian Students: Affiliated with the Church in Los Angeles
Advisor: Andrew Simpson (213) 740-3640
Student leader: Paul Hsiung
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 12:30 p.m., Topping Student Center, Bible study; Fridays at 6:30 p.m., and Sundays at 10 a.m., 854 Adams Blvd., dinner and fellowship.
The members of Christian Students focus on enjoying Jesus Christ and they welcome common fellowship with other believers. Christian Students is the campus outreach of the Church in Los Angeles, which is in fellowship with over 2,000 local churches worldwide. The group meets weekly for Bible studies on campus, and in a home setting for dinner and fellowship.
Coptic Orthodox Christian Club at USC
Advisor: Father James Soliman
Student leader: Monica Youssef
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m., Grace Ford Salvatori 109, spiritual speaker or Bible study and discussion.
The Coptic Orthodox Christian Club is a small yet dedicated group of mostly Egyptian Christians who, while living amidst the world, still have passion for the traditional Orthodox path to living a Christly life. They describe themselves as “a group of ordinary students who gather for spiritual growth and social bonding.”
Episcopal Ministry/Canterbury at USC
University Religious Center 203
Director: Reverend Glenn M. Libby, Ph.D., (213) 740-2673
Student leader: Laura Wingert
2007-08 Meetings: Sundays at 7:00 p.m., Thomas Kilgore Jr. Chapel of the Cross (University Religious Center), Episcopal/Lutheran worship; Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., University Religious Center 108/203, dinner and informal discussion.
Combining strong liturgy and ancient tradition with open-mindedness, the Episcopal Church on campus invites a wide diversity of persons into an active, contemporary community of faith. It especially seeks to be a safe place for uncertain explorers as well as for those who are firm in their beliefs.
Fellowship of Christian Physician Assistant Students
Advisor: Dr. Rosslyn Byous, (626) 457-4262
Student leader: Jennifer Zamora
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 12 noon in room B27 in building A6 at USC's Alhambra Campus
Good Shepherds Korean Christian Group
Affiliated with the Oriental Mission Church
Advisors: Professor Eun Sok Kim, (213) 740-4697, and Pastor Seung Hak Hyun of the Oriental Mission Church
Student Leader: Jina Lee
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 8:30 p.m., Grace Ford Salvatori 118; Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m., Grace Ford Salvatori 212
Grace on Campus: a ministry of Grace Community Church
Advisor: Chase Sears, (661) 993-2947
Student leader: Bobby Jamieson
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m., University Religious Center Fishbowl Chapel
Grace on Campus, as a ministry of a local church, provides a church home for students in which they may grow in the Christian life and in their love for Jesus Christ through the preaching of Pastor John MacArthur. Weekly meetings on campus provide instruction in God’s word, encouragement, and discipleship.
Graduate Christian Fellowship
Advisor: Don Ludwig
Student contact: Emily Beal
Facebook Group: "Graduate Christian Fellowship"
The Graduate Christian Fellowship offers a place for students from any graduate or professional program to come together for Bible study, fellowship, prayer, and mutual support,.
Higher Learning Pentecostal MinistriesAssociated with West Angeles Church of God in Christ
Director: Elder Benjamin Stephens III, (323) 733-8300
Student leader: Mary Polk
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., von KleinSmid Center, room 258
The students at Higher Learning Pentecostal Ministries gather weekly to learn the "practical application of Biblical principles," with Ben Stephens, their seminary-trained pastor, and other guest teachers. They also join with the Black Student Assembly in community service and other campus events geared particularly to African American students.
The Impact Movement at USC: Impacting Lives for Christ
in association with Campus Crusade for Christ and the Impact Movement
Director: Stephanie Wee, (916) 834-7491
Student leader: Nantale Corbett
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 6:30 p.m. in Somerville Lounge or Wells Tower Lounge
In Christ Alone Ministries (ICAM)
Directors: Faith Chan, (917) 599-7955
Student leader: Tim Liao
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m., von KleinSmid 150
In-Touch Christian Fellowship
Advisor: Kelley Chung, (626) 297-0504
Student Leader: Hyun Rho
The In-Touch Christian Fellowship is a grassroots Bible study group, which meets once a week for study and fellowship. Many of the members are of Korean background, and there is some translation into Korean. The group also visits Grace Ministries International (Fullerton, CA) once a month to engage in service projects.
InterVarsity-Trojan Christian Fellowship
Director: Steve and Larissa Marks
Student leader: Ihilani Hirakawa
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., Grace Ford Salvatori Hall, room 106. Fellowship, musical worship, and teaching; also various weekly small group Bible studies in student residences
InterVarsity-Trojan Christian Fellowship is a witnessing community of Christians growing in love for God, for God’s Word, for God’s people of every ethnicity and culture, and for God’s purposes in the world. It is committed to being a multi-ethnic community, a place where diverse groups of students become spiritual family.
Kairos Church at USCAffiliated with Great Commission Ministries
Director: Greg Christman
Student leader: Stephen Gordon
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in the University Religious Center 205
Kairos Church at USC is an eclectic group of followers of Jesus, who seek to engage the ancient text in a relevant way, practice faith as it intersects all of life, and interact with neighborhood youth through tutoring. "Kairos" is a Greek word interpreted to mean a God-appointed moment in time.
Korea Campus Crusade for Christ
Affiliated with Campus Crusade for Christ International
Director: Keiko Yamada, (714) 425-5271
Student leader: Yu Kwang Chun
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Taper Hall of Humanities 102
Korea Campus Crusade for Christ is an evangelical, inter-denominational ministry reaching to Korean and other students. The group meets for prayer and worship, and holds a weekly outreach meeting exploring the claims of Jesus Christ. All meetings are conducted in English.
Korean American Campus Mission
Affiliated with Korean American Campus Mission, a network of Korean American Christians at California campuses, and with Cerritos Mission Church, Cerritos
Advisor: Ruth Chung, (213) 740-3258
Student leader: Jeffrery Leung
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in Seeley G. Mudd 124
Open to all students of any background, the Korean American Campus Mission meets weekly, hosts activities throughout the year, and then sends students on summer missions around the world to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with people in Asia, Africa, and South America.
Latter-day Saint Student Association
Affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, USC Ward
1057 W. 30th Street (McClintock and 30th St.)
Director: Michael Stanley, (213) 747-0497
Student Leader: Kellie Wong
2007-08 Meetings: Sundays at 10:00 a.m., worship; Mondays at 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., religious class and activities; and other classes and activities throughout the week, all at the Institute at 1057 W. 30th Street.
Latter-day Saints believe that God is the Father and human beings are his children, for whom he has a plan as outlined in the scriptures. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is neither Catholic nor Protestant, but rather claims to be a latter-day restoration of first century Christianity.
Life Christian Fellowship - Formerly Asian Baptist Student Koinonia
Affiliated with the regional Life Christian Fellowship network and sponsored by Life Baptist Church, West Los Angeles
Advisors: Pastor Daniel Im of Life Baptist Christian Church of West Los Angeles, and Katina Williams, (213) 740-3467
Student leader: Joyce Fei Xu
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m., University Religious Center Fishbowl Chapel (domestic students), and Fridays at 7:00 p.m., University Religious Center 205 (international students).
Los Angeles Church of Christ
Affiliated with the Los Angeles Church of Christ (of the International Churches of Christ)
Directors: John & Arlene Markowski, (626) 285-5541
Student leader: Michael Wang
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 9:00 p.m. in University Religious Center, room 108
The campus group of the Los Angeles Church of Christ is a culturally and racially diverse group of Christians, seeking to live out what they learn from the Bible and to help others know the truth about Jesus Christ. They engage in many activities, from serving the homeless to having weekly Bible studies.
Lutheran Campus Ministry
Affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
University Religious Center 202
Director: Reverend Tita Valeriano, (213) 740-2669
Student leader: Julia Terr-Malloy
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 6:00 p.m., University Religious Center 202, dinner and discussion; Sundays at 7:00 p.m., Thomas Kilgore Jr. Chapel of the Cross, Holy Communion; Tuesdays 5:00 p.m., University Religious Center 202; Fridays, 5:00 p.m., University Religious Center 202.
The Lutheran Campus Ministry is a worshipping Christian community which gathers to deepen their faith, to challenge their minds, to embody servanthood, to cultivate care and compassion, and to have fun on their life's journey! They are committed to "practicing and extending grace within and beyond USC."
Mosaic Trojan Network: A Christian Community of Faith, Hope, and Love
Affiliated with Mosaic
Director: Andrew Masters, (623) 497-1271 and Alice Gates, (213) 924-7293
Student leader: Mary Tanagho
Facebook Group: "Mosaic Trojan Network"
2007-08 Meetings: Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Troy Hall
Mosaic seeks those who are "searching for meaning, destiny, and community," those who like to create and innovate, those who care about providing clean water in Africa, those who want to live life with passion. The name "Mosaic" represents a fragmented humanity becoming a work of beauty in God's hands.
The Well Internet Cafe, 3311 S. Hoover (in University Village)
Director: Pastor Seung-Ho Synn, (213) 239-3784
Student Leader: Min Woo Suh
2007-08 Meetings: Sundays at 11:00 a.m., University Religious Center Fishbowl Chapel, worship services.
Praise Korean Christian Mission offers Sunday services, weekly Bible studies and praise meetings. Its members also offer friendship and services to international students arriving in the United States for the first time, through the Well Internet Cafe` in the University Village.
Redefined: A Christian Outreach of the Dream Center
Director: Jake Rogers (847) 271-8868
Student leader: Jordan Close
2007-08 Meetings: Mondays at 9 pm at a member's residence.
ReJOYce in Jesus
Affiliated with ReJOYce in Jesus Ministries Inc.
Director: Ira Dotson, (310) 741-1962
Advisor: Linda Wootton
Student leader: Olanna Mills
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., University Religious Center 103, Bible study and fellowship
ReJOYce in Jesus Campus Fellowship seeks to help students develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, placing Jesus at the center of their lives and of their weekly fellowship on campus. Meetings focus on hearing God’s Word from the Bible, and seeking principles from the Bible to guide everyday life.
Remnant Trojan Christian ClubAssociated with Remnant USA
Advisors: Leo Hsu and Pastor Charles Ahn
Student leader: Sam Kim
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 4 p.m. in Waite Phillips Hall B30 and Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. in Stauffer Science Hall 200.
Remnant USA is a Korean-American Christian missionary organization that ministers to multi-ethnic 2nd generation youth in America, with a particular focus on campus ministry. The Remnant Trojan Christian Club members meet weekly for prayer and Bible study and seek to share their faith with others.
Saved by Grace Gospel Choir
Affiliated with Higher Learning Pentecostal Ministries
Advisor: Jacki Mitchell, (213) 740-1827
Student leader: Jazimar Jones
2007-08 Meetings: Mondays at 6:00 p.m., University Religious Center Fishbowl, choir rehearsal
Saved By Grace is a gospel choir which offers a concert every semester, and sings at numerous other events. Its purpose is to spread the message of Christ’s love through song; it also serves to provide a place where students of all ethnic backgrounds can come and meet other Christians.
Advisor: Tyan Parker-Domiguez, (213) 740-2740
Student leader: Gracie Vargas
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 11:45 a.m. for prayer and 1st Tuesday of the month for meeting.
The School of Social Work Christian Caucus is a place for Christian social work students to connect for support, fellowship and professional development.
Sisters in Spirit: a Christian Sisterhood
Advisor: Viannda Hawkins, (213) 740-2534
Student Leader: Tiffany Ward
Facebook Group: "Sisters in Spirit"
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m., location TBA
Sisters in Spirit promotes sisterhood and unity among African-American and other students who want support and encouragement to live healthy Christian lives. They meet weekly for fellowship and informal Bible discussion, and they join with the Black Student Assembly in putting on service events with and for the surrounding community.
Student Christian Fellowship at the Keck School of Medicine
Affiliated with the Christian Medical and Dental Association
Advisor: Professor Paul Holtom, (323) 226-3695
Student leaders: Molly Lin
Meetings: Wednesdays at 12:00 noon, Keith Administration Building, B40/42
The Student Christian Fellowship at HSC is a group of medical students who meet weekly for worship, prayer, and fellowship. Seeking to support one another in the stresses of medical school, the group focuses on spiritual values and the importance of maintaining a personal relationship with God through Christ.
Trojan Bible Study: Affiliated with Christian Medical & Dental AssociationAdvisor: T.J. Ahn
Student Leader: Lily Ye
2007-08 Meeting Times: Thursdays at 5:30 p.m., Dental School Building in room 160 A & B
The Trojan Bible Study offers Christian fellowship for students at the USC School of Dentistry, with weekly Bible studies and prayer meetings.
Affiliated with United University Church, which is a united congregation of the Presbyterian Church USA and the United Methodist Church; it is affiliated with denominational movements advocating for the full inclusion of all people, and with United Ministry at USC
817 W. 34th St, across from Taper Hall
Director: Pastor Frank Wulf
Student leader: Anna-Marie McLemore
Facebook Group: "Food for Thought"
2007-08 Meetings: Sundays at 10:30 a.m., United University Church, community worship (with choir practice beforehand at 9:00 a.m.); Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m., “Food for Thought” student Bible study and discussion, Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. in the University Religious Center, room 108.
United Methodists at USC is a multicultural, theologically progressive Christian group "where all are really welcome!" The group participates in social action and advocacy for justice, and engages in seasonal and thematic discussion of the Bible and its relevance for today at the weekly Food for Thought dinner.
United Presbyterians at USC
Affiliated with the United Ministry at USC. United Ministry is also connected with A Community Place
Director: Reverend Diane Kenney, (213) 740-2667
Student leader: Johanna Michael
2007-08 Meetings: Mondays 5 p.,m., Wednesdays at 6 p.m. in United Ministry Lounge and Thursdays at 5:30 p.m., University Religious Center 108, dinner, friendship, and Bible study; community service and other activities arranged to fit student schedules each semester
Veritas Forum: an interdisciplinary exploration of truth in relation to Jesus Christ
Affiliated with the national Veritas Forum
Director: Neil Walker (626) 806-5299
Student leader: Victor Bagnato
The Veritas Forum, founded at Harvard in 1992, seeks to explore the intellectual and personal relevance of Jesus Christ to life’s important issues. Bringing together scholars, it is an opportunity for the campus community to discuss the hardest questions of academia, society, and the human heart.
Worldwide Friends: A Friendship Group for USC Internationals Offered by Christians Welcoming All Cultures and Faiths
Directors: Daniel and Dicksie Mathison, (323) 727-7869
Student leader: Leanne Chan
2007-08 Meetings: special activities on weekends as announced on website
Worldwide Friends builds intercultural friendships through cultural events such as Namaste India, Chinese Moon Festival, and Iranian Night, and also offers dinners with ethnic food, and events including sports activities, discussions, beach trips, hikes, and lunches with American families. They also invite you to learn more about God through the Bible.
USC Yoga & Service Club
Advisor: Clara Irazabel, (213) 740-0548
Student Leader: Neelam Patil
2007--08 Meetings: Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m., in Topping Student Center
Falun Gong
Falun Gong at USC
Advisor: Professor Peter Robertson
Student leader: Mei Zhou
Falun Gong is a practice combining meditation, gentle exercises, and the cultivation of truthfulness, compassion and tolerance. A spiritual rather than religious group, it teaches practitioners to aspire to live by these qualilties to achieve a state of selflessness and inner balance.
Hindu
Hindu Student Organization
Directors: Swami Sarvadevananda and Swami Atmavidyananda, (323) 960-1737
Student leader: Neena Ananda
Facebook Group: "USC Hindu Student Organization"
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 7:15 p.m., University Religious Center Fishbowl Chapel
The Hindu Student Organization serves to foster awareness about Hinduism and encourages those interested to explore the religion in a manner that allows individuality, spirituality, and tradition to coalesce. It sponsors annual Diwali and Holi celebrations, pujas, guest speakers, discussions, and trips to local temples. The Swamis are available for individual spiritual guidance.
Interfaith
Interfaith Council
Advisors: Reverend Elizabeth Daveport, (213) 740-6110
Student leader: Ali Arastu
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m., University Religious Center 108
The Natural Path: An Interfaith Group Promoting Self-Improvement Through the Practice of Meditation
Advisor: Laurent Itti, (213) 740-3527
Student leader: Animesh Pathak
2007-08 Meetings: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the University Religious Center, room 205.
The Natural Path draws students from many backgrounds (atheists included) who are interested in learning to use the simple and practical tool of meditation as a means of training the mind to avoid distraction and to focus on the essence. They meditate together regularly in addition to their individual practice.
Jain
Jain Student Association
Advisor: Niti Shah, (213) 740-8564
Student leader: Dimple Ajmera
Facebook Group: "Jain Student Association"
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 5:00 p.m., in Topping Student Center
Jainism is based on the principle of ahimsa or non-violence. The Jain Student Association promotes awareness of Jainism through meetings and discussions on Jain philosophies, the nature of God and the universe, compassion, and vegetarianism, and through organizing trips to Jain temples.
Jewish
Chabad Jewish Student Center
2713 Severance St (between 28th St and Adams)
Directors: Rabbi Dov and Runya Wagner, (213) 748-5884
Student leader: Ari Shandling
Facebook Group: "Chabad@USC"
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 6:00 p.m., at the Rohr Chabad Jewish Student Center (2713 Severance St), Shabbat services and dinner; Thursdays from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m., Trousdale Parkway, pizza and Parsha discussion; Tuesdays at 6:00 p.m., Chabad Jewish Student Center, Kosher meal plan
Chabad Jewish Student Center provides a warm and non-judgmental, family-type atmosphere for students of all affiliations and backgrounds to explore their Jewish heritage. Chabad strives to truly be a “home away from home” for every Jewish student. It also offers opportunities for social and community involvement, e.g. the Jewish Women's Forum.
Hillel Center for Jewish LifeAffiliated with Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life
3300 S. Hoover St (at Hoover and Jefferson)
Allen & Ruth Ziegler Rabbinic Director: Rabbi Jonathan Klein, (213) 747-9135
Student leader: Meira Elituv
Facebook Group: "Hillel"
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 5:30 p.m., Fridays at 6:00 p.m., candlelighting, Shabbat evening services and dinner, at 3300 S. Hoover St, Thursdays at 6:30, Student Board Meeting
Hillel provides a foundation for Jewish student life, offering a secure, inclusive and nurturing environment for all Jews who are part of the USC community. Wednesday barbeques, Shabbat dinners and other social, cultural and spiritual programs offer broad opportunities for students to explore Jewish heritage and values.
Jewish Association of Marshall Students
Advisor: Pete Giullioni, (213) 821-1254
Student leader: Jonathan Nash
Jewish Awareness Movement (JAM)
Advisor: Dr. Steven Richeimer, (323) 442-7283
Student leader: Elisheva Jawary
2007-08 Meetings: 1st Monday of every month, 7 p.m., 369 N. Fairfax, Ste #5. LA 90036
Seventy Faces: USC's Jewish Newsletter
Advisor: Moshe Lazar, (213) 740-0103
Student leader: Desiree Ebriani
2007-08 Meetings: Bimonthly on Mondays at 5 p.m., Leavey Library
Muslim
M.T.O. Sufi AssociationAffiliated with Maktab Tarighat Oveyssi Shahmaghsoudi
Advisor: Negin Saberi (626) 354-6640
Student Leader: Nazanin Angoshtari
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 8:30 p.m.
The MTO Sufi Association seeks to raise awareness of Sufism and offers programs on topics such as raising spiritual awareness, eliminating prejudice and intolerance, and innovating social and educational change through the teachings of Sufism. It hosts evenings dedicated to poetry and music, and co-sponsors an annual conference on Sufi Psychology.
Muslim Students for Dialogue
Advisor: Terry Cooper, (213) 740-0371
Student Leader: Osman Abbasoglu
2007-08 Meetings: Mondays at 5:00 p.m. in the University Religious Center, room 105.
Muslim Students for Dialogue promotes intercultural and interfaith dialogue through education and discussion events, in the belief that constructive dialogue is a fundamental human trait. They seek to find common points, and to agree on the precedence of those common points over areas of difference.
Muslim Student Union
Directors: Imam Sadullah Khan, (949) 786-4264, of the Islamic Center of Irvine and Imam Jihad Turk, (310) 415-6747, of the Islamic Center of Southern California
Student leader: Mesbah Ahmad
2007-08 Meetings: Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., von KleinSmid Center.
The Muslim Student Union offers a warm community for all Muslims, placing emphasis on practicing Islam as a way of life through leadership development, educational workshops, campus involvement, activism, and community service. It sponsors educational, spiritual, social, and community activities, and has special activities geared towards new students.
Pagan/Wiccan
Pagans and Wiccans at USC
Advisor: Jeanne Weiss, (213) 740-2792
Student leader: Jaclyn Kalkhurst
Facebook Group: "PAW"
2007-08 Meetings: Fridays at 5:00 p.m., Little Chapel of Silence, and seasonal gatherings at times of the solstice, equinox, and other nature-based transitions of the year
Pagans and Wiccans at USC is a diverse group of students who are interested in exploring both ancient and contemporary ideas and practices of Paganism and Wicca, and to dispel stereotypes about earth-based religions and goddess worship – providing a spiritual outlet for those who seek an alternative to patriarchal religious beliefs and ways of being.
Quaker
Quakers at USC
Advisor: Cynthia Waite, (213) 740-6109
Student leader: Ned Dannenberg
2007-08 Meetings: Monthly carpool to Los Angeles are meeting houses.
Gentleness, courage, service to the poor, and a direct relationship with God are tenets of the Quakers, whose history includes activism for prison reform, abolition of slavery, and the equality of women and Native Americans. The Quaker group welcomes students of any religious tradition to join in silent worship and sharing of ideals.
Sikh
Sikh Students Association
Advisor: Professor Manbir Singh, (213) 740-0837
Student leader: Simrat Malik
Facebook Group: "USC Sikh Student Association"
2007-08 Meetings: Wednesday evenings at President's apartment.
The Sikh Students Association promotes awareness of Sikhism at USC and in the surrounding community, and offers a bi-monthly forum for discussion of Sikhism, its history, and its relation to contemporary American society. It is also allied with Sikh groups at other campuses through the Sikh Student Alliance in Southern California.
Unitarian
Unitarian Universalists of USC
Advisor: Brian Nelson, (213) 740-9293
Student leader: Jessica Goebel
Facebook Group: "Unitarian Universalists of USC"
Unitarian Universalism is characterized by its historic commitment to social justice and to the free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Meetings consist of religious and political education and activities to build a strong community among members, and an open and loving environment for all.
For Faculty and Staff at USC
Kingdom Network Christian Association
Director: Alcyone Moore
Advisor: Margaret Turner
The Kingdom network Christian Association is a lunchtime staff/faculty fellowship of Bible reading, prayer, personal study and reflection. At the weekly meetings members of the group discuss inspirational topics important to staff in their work in higher education, and offer support and encouragement to one another.
Trojan Christian Faculty/Staff Fellowship
Coordinator: Don Ludwig, (213) 740-5891
Meetings: Thursdays at 12:00 noon, University Religious Center 103, Bible discussion and occasional guest speaker
The Trojan Christian Faculty/Staff Fellowship is a group of faculty and staff at USC who are interested in "influencing the world through higher education." They meet weekly for Bible study, fellowship, and prayer, with occasional guest speakers.