Diwali dancers in the University Chapel

Religious Life

At Princeton, we learn from each other through what makes us different. We refract the content of our courses and daily interactions through the lens of our life experiences and those things we believe (or don’t); they are the foundation for the richest kind of intellectual, spiritual and personal growth.

The Rev. Dr. Alison Boden

Dean of religious life and the chapel

Dean Alison Boden posing in her office before bookshelves.
Dalai Lama with students

Religious Life at Princeton

A place for all — this sentiment is behind all that we do at Princeton to support the religious and secular communities on campus. Princeton is nonsectarian, and religious life here is characterized by its depth and diversity, reflecting our community of people from around the world and their interest in seeking meaning in their lives. 

Along with providing spiritual counseling, the Office of Religious Life will support you in the broadest kinds of exploration of religion, ethics, public policy and community well-being. The office, based in Murray-Dodge Hall, brings community members together for interfaith programming, and a variety of chaplaincies and student groups allow you to further your spiritual growth and learn about other traditions. 
 

Stained glass window and pillar inside University Chapel

Programs & Events

You will have many ways to engage with faith at Princeton — interfaith councils for undergraduates and graduate students, worship services, musical choirs and concerts, meditation, study of sacred texts and trips to explore how religion is practiced in other cultures.

The campus celebrates many spiritual events within the soaring walls of the Princeton University Chapel, from its annual interfaith Baccalaureate service for graduating seniors and weekly Christian services to the Hindu celebration of Diwali. Other places for gathering and reflecting on campus include the Murray-Dodge Café (open noon to midnight for free cookies and tea Tuesday through Sunday, and 3 p.m. to midnight Monday), prayer rooms in Murray-Dodge Hall, the Center for Jewish Life, and gardens and natural spaces.

Learn More

Princeton University's Office of Religious Life supports a community of many faiths through care, counseling and activities in a variety of campus spaces.