Welcome

            We are living in an odd time.  The COVID-19 pandemic has upended the way we go about our lives. The University of Miami has worked hard for several months to come up with a way to welcome students back to campus.  Several protocols have been established to make our environment as safe as possible.  While we recognize the need for these protocols, we also acknowledge that this is a difficult time for students, particularly for those who are new to UM.  Those who were high school seniors in spring 2020 had many disappointments as the usual rituals and celebrations marking the end of high school had to be either cancelled or greatly modified.  Now these same students are beginning their college careers under strange circumstances.  This also means that we are constrained in the types of activities we can offer our students.

             Rather than focus on what we cannot do, I'd like to stress what we can offer.  As the Chaplain, I am available to meet with students in person or by Zoom for counseling, theological discussions, or just plain conversation at any time.  The focus of our week is our Sunday evening student worship service.  Since the University is not allowing indoor activities until at least November 1st, our Sunday 6PM Student Eucharist (communion) will be held in the Chapel courtyard. While we can't serve our usual cooked family style suppers, we are allowed to serve prepackaged individual boxed meals, so our 7PM Sunday student suppers will continue.

            Here at the Episcopal Church Center at the University of Miami we welcome any and all students whatever your creed, race, nationality, or sexual orientation. The word "Episcopal" describes what we have to offer; it in no way is meant to limit whom we serve.  Historically we have had students who are Episcopalian, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Presbyterian, or undefined.  Regardless of your background, we invite you to check us out and see if we are a good fit.

            Fr. Frank is a trained and certified Ibis Ally. 

            As restrictions are lifted we have every intention of resuming our weekly student suppers and free yoga classes. In the meantime, we will work to make this semester as meaningful as possible.