Religious life on campus

Our campus offers opportunities for students to grow in faith, connect with others, and engage in meaningful dialogue across traditions through religious organizations and spiritual events

 

 

exterior photo of building, lights stone with red and brown brick, white trimmed windows, arched entryway to porch, trees and bushes around building

Welcome to Canterbury House

Canterbury House, located at 3308 Daniel Avenue behind the Law School Quad, is the home of the Office of the Chaplain and Religious Life and a welcoming hub for belonging, community, and spiritual life at SMU. It offers spaces to connect with others, find a quiet moment, or worship in St. Alban's Chapel, a sacred space for prayer, reflection, and worship.

Away from the bustle of campus, Canterbury House welcomes people of all faith traditions and worldviews. Through worship, meaningful conversations, arts and community events, and opportunities for reflection, it nurtures the mind, body, and spirit while fostering connection, hospitality, and a sense of belonging.

students and staff in front of the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama

Religious Life Programming

girls talking on bench

Pastoral/spiritual care

students and professor sitting at long conference table talking

Center for Faith and Learning

three students outside sitting table working together and talking

Spiritual Direction

five students sitting outside by fountain in front of Dallas Hall on sunny day

Spaces, food and policies

Reverend Lisa Garvin in black robe with white stole giving sermon in Perkins Chapel

Worship Opportunities

three people covered in multi-colored powder standing outside in front of red and yellow floral backdrop

Religious holidays

row of small candles in a "v" shape with flame on a black background

Service of Memory

Upcoming opportunities and events

  • Summer FOCUS

    Thursday, July 30, 2026, 7:30pmCare Church If you're still in town this summer, come join us on a Thursday night! If you need a ride, you can scan the QR code and we'll connect you with people ...

  • Religious Life Partner Kick-Off

    Monday, August 03, 2026, 9:00amPrivate Location (sign in to display) Fall Semester Kick-Off for the Religious Life Partners working with the Office of the Chaplain & Religious Life

  • Wesley House Kickoff Party

    Tuesday, August 25, 2026, 5:30pmWesley House Come over to Wesley House to kick off the new year! Get to know our Wesley House ministry, make new friends, and get connected to a community that...

  • Religious Life Fair

    Thursday, August 27, 2026, 11:30amHughes Triggs Student Center- Level 2 Atrium Connect with Religious Life Organizations on campus and local congregations.

  • Genesis Retreat for Freshmen and Transfer Students

    Saturday, August 29, 2026, 9:30amPrivate Location (sign in to display) Genesis is a one-day retreat made for incoming freshmen and transfer students. It's an opportunity to meet other new Mustangs, build friendships, and ...

  • Campus Ministry Cohort Meeting

    Tuesday, September 01, 2026, 2:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) Monthly Meeting of the Campus Ministry Cohort with Office of the Chaplain & Religious Life

  • Pet Blessing 2026

    Monday, October 05, 2026, 4:30pmCanterbury House (3308 Daniel Ave) The Patron Saint of Animals, St. Francis of Assisi taught that all animals are members of our collective family. Our pets often reflect this truth...

  • Campus Ministry Cohort Meeting

    Tuesday, October 06, 2026, 2:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) Monthly Meeting of the Campus Ministry Cohort with Office of the Chaplain & Religious Life