Spiritual Life
Participation in religious activities
and attendance at chapel services is strictly voluntary,
left to the needs and desires of the individual
midshipman. The U.S. Merchant Marine Memorial Chapel,
built by public ubscription as a tribute to the officers
and men of the merchant marine who lost their lives in
the service of the nation, serves all faiths.
Chaplains are available to assist midshipmen with their
spiritual and personal needs. The Protestant and
Catholic programs include weekly Sunday services, a
daily Catholic mass, Bible studies and social events.
Opportunities for spiritual growth are available through
retreats, religious study programs, and sacramental
preparation classes.
Jewish midshipmen can attend one of the local synagogues,
and arrangements can be made for leave and liberty for
the observance of special holidays.
Midshipmen of other faiths requiring special arrangements
to attend a house of worship of their choice may obtain
assistance from one of the chaplains.
Religious Programs
Christian Fellowship Club (CFC):
The Christian Fellowship Club provides
Protestant midshipmen at the Academy with spiritual and
social guidance. Meetings are held every Monday night at
1945 in the Yocum Sailing Center and usually consist of
music followed by a message and prayer session, everyone
is welcome and encouraged to participate. Activities
include retreats, barbecues, volunteering, and Friday
night trips to Queens College or NYU for Campus Crusade
for Christ celebrations.
Newman Club (Catholic Midshipman
Club):
The Newman Club is the Academy's
spiritual and social club for Catholic midshipmen.
Masses are held on Monday at 2000 in the lower chapel
followed by a period of fellowship in the midshipmen
lounge. Activities include trips to New York City among
other places, volunteering at local parishes,
participation in Midnight Run (a clothing drive for
homeless in NY city), and various others.
Mariners Chorus:
The Mariners Chorus is a select group
of midshipmen and faculty staff, varying in number from
20-30, who perform at various Academy and non-Academy
functions. Practice is held twice a week and the music
covers many genre. Yearly performances for the chorus
include performing in the Academy's "Beat Retreat" with
the Regimental Band, and Thanksgiving, Christmas, and
Baccalaureate services. Off-campus trips have taken the
chorus to perform for local groups as well as for the
International Presidents Organization. A small
contingent of the chorus also recently performed for
Cardinal O'Connor's 80th birthday celebration at St.
Patrick's Cathedral. No prior choir experience is
needed, all are encouraged to come and sing with us!
Chapel Choir:
The Chapel choir is a small group of
midshipmen who sing or play various instruments during
Sunday services in conjunction with the organist.
Practices are held weekly and all are welcome to come.
Activities:
Every year the Chapel sponsors events
such as barbecues, trips, retreats, ice cream parties as
well as many other varied events to suit everyone. The
use of the midshipman lounge, where television/vcr,
games, books, and a piano reside, is also provided on a
daily basis. We encourage all to come down and utilize
the facilities to your benefit while still respecting
them.
- Chapel Activities
- Christian Fellowship Club
- Campus Crusade for Christ
- Newman Club (Catholic Midshipman Club)
- Knights of Columbus
- Jewish Worship
- Navigators Bible Study
- Prayer Meetings
- Chaplain Availability
- Weddings, Funerals, Memorial Services, Counseling
- Choirs, Praise Band and instrumental opportunities
- Constant Chapel access
- Volunteer work: Homeless Shelter, Nursing homes,
Building projects, Clothing Drive and Religious
Education
- Social fun: BBQ's, Retreats, City Tours
For more
information please visit the Memorial Chapel's web site
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