Office of Religious and Spiritual Life

Wilder Hall
The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life can be found on the second floor of Wilder Hall in room 208.
Photo credit: William Bradford

Welcome to the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) at Oberlin College

It is with great enthusiasm that I return to campus as a graduate of the class of 2010 to lead and support the continued growth of ORSL. Exploring religious and spiritual practices is fundamental to a liberal arts education, offering a transformative experience by fostering an understanding of diverse perspectives and worldviews. ORSL is committed to supporting you on your unique journey of religious, spiritual, and intellectual inquiry. Whether you identify with a religious tradition or are curious, we are here for you.

As you embark on your journey at Oberlin, we invite you to engage with ORSL and delve into our community's rich tapestry of religious and spiritual life. Can't find what you're looking for? Reach out to us, and let's build it together. 

Welcome to the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life – where your presence is embraced and celebrated!

Warmly,

Samia Mansour '10

Assistant Dean and Director of Religious and Spiritual Life

Mission:

The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life (ORSL) is dedicated to supporting religious, spiritual, and spiritually curious students on campus. We advise student organizations, shape inclusive college policies, provide educational and explorative opportunities, and connect students to off-campus resources for enriched spiritual journeys. 

ORSL does this by fostering collaboration with students and campus partners, providing mentorship in an open, welcoming, and non-judgemental environment, and creating tailored programming that addresses students' needs and interests in religious and spiritual life. ORSL sees the immense value in learning and understanding the diverse tapestry of religious and spiritual identities and encourages questioning and wrestling with new perspectives. We know that rituals and practices from ancient traditions can offer insights to support holistic wellness in the modern world. We aim to uplift the beauty in religious and spiritual tradition and hold space for what is challenging and uncomfortable. 

Vision:

ORSL envisions a world where all students leave Oberlin with a knowledge and appreciation of diverse religious and spiritual identities. We see a future where religious and spiritual life is integrated throughout the Oberlin College experience, and students feel free to explore, practice, and question religion and spirituality in a comfortable and non-judgemental environment. When students from any faith background or denomination arrive on campus, they know they will find community support and resources.

Newsletter Signup

Keep up with religious and spiritual life happenings with the Multifaith Chaplain's newsletter by signing up at the link here