Prayer rooms

WHAT MIGHT RELIGIOUSLY DIVERSE STUDENTS NEED FROM IN INTERFAITH ROOM? HOW MIGHT DIFFERENT STUDENTS AND GROUPS USE THE ROOM? These are just some basic examples of how different groups may observe their faith. If you are not sure what a certain group on your campus may need, the best way to find out is to just ask. Muslims pray five times a day. Prior to the prayer, or Salah, Muslims partake in ablution, or Wudu. The room should be near a bathroom to accommodate this or have a washroom in the room. Muslims often remove their shoes before prayer and require a clean space for prayer, so make sure the room has an empty space with clean carpets. Christians may want a place to kneel to perform prayers, as well as a shelf or desk to store crosses and holy books. Christian students may meet daily for a prayer or worship service. Jewish students may observe the Sabbath, or Shabbat, which begins Friday at sunset until Saturday at sunset. Students may want to commemorate the Sabbath with a Friday night meal. Some interfaith spaces may have a kitchen and dining area. Some Orthodox Jewish men and women separate during prayers. A portable divider will serve this purpose. Other religious groups may separate by gender as well. If you’re not sure about the practices of the communities on your campus, just ask. For several Eastern traditions, it is important to have meditation items such as floor pillows, meditation bell, and a quiet room for reflection. Secular humanist and other non-religious ethical communities may use the space as a reflection room. This may simply require a quiet space.

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