Not Catholic?
You're not alone! SCU students come from a variety of religious and philosophical backgrounds, and the programs Campus Ministry offers are open to all students. We hope you'll join us!
Commonly-asked questions
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 Can I participate in Campus Ministry even if I’m not Catholic?
Yes! Campus Ministry programs are open to all SCU students. While some of our offerings, like Sunday liturgies, are distinctly Roman Catholic, students from other religious backgrounds are invited to attend, observe and participate as they feel comfortable and have interest. In addition, we sponsor programs that are Christian but would be comfortable for Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox students alike; other programs focus on individual vocation, direction and spiritual discernment regardless of faith background; still others are deliberately interfaith or multifaith. Here are some options to get you started:
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What religions are present on campus?
Just over 48 percent of our undergraduate student body is Roman Catholic, but Santa Clara University is home to students, faculty and staff from many religious and philosophical backgrounds, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Paganism, Sikhism, and Zoroastrianism.
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Are all of the Campus Ministers Catholic priests?
No—in fact, not all of us are Catholic! We are women and men, ordained and lay, serving the spiritual needs of a religiously diverse student population. We embrace Jesuit and Catholic traditions and find our grounding in Christian faith, and we also honor the diverse religious expressions on our campus by actively promoting dialogue, justice, understanding and service.
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Where can I pray, meditate or go to worship?
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What about interfaith or multifaith activities and programs?
Interfaith engagement is one way SCU fulfills its mission to create “a community enriched by men and women of diverse backgrounds, respectful of difference and enlivened by open dialogue, caring and just toward others, and committed to broad participation in achieving the common good.” In Campus Ministry at Santa Clara University, we use the word interfaith to describe opportunities for people of different religious and philosophical traditions to learn from each other and to work together.
Find out more about the SCU Interfaith Council and join us for President Obama's Interfaith and Community Service Campus Challenge!
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What if I don't know what I believe?
It means you’re right on schedule. College is often a time of figuring out what you believe and making your faith and practice your own. We’re here for exactly that reason—to help answer your questions and provide you with resources and direction, to listen to your doubts and struggles, to offer ways for you to live your faith in daily life, and to be a safe and non-threatening place of exploration. We think these ultimate questions are pretty important, so we’ll be with you on the journey.
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How do I find Campus Ministry?
Our office is in the Benson Memorial Center. We have entrances outside on the patio by the fountain, or inside next to the information desk. Bring your lunch, enjoy our comfy couches, and get to know us. You are always welcome!
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Who can I contact for more information?
Contact the Rev. Aimee Moiso if you have questions or need more information about any of these opportunities, either by email or calling 408-554-5446.
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