No. The Chaplaincy is grounded in Catholic tradition, but all students, regardless of faith background, culture, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation, are welcome. You’re invited to take part in any of the Chaplaincy’s offerings, including prayer services, weekly Mass, or community events, whether you're practicing Catholicism, exploring spirituality, or simply curious.
Additionally, the chapel offers designated all-faith drop-in quiet hours in the Chapel, which are self-guided and not part of a formal Catholic service, and there is also an interfaith prayer space near residence that supports individual prayer and reflection for students of all or no faith background.
No. The Chaplaincy is here to support your personal journey, wherever you are. While programs and prayer life are grounded in Catholic tradition, there is no expectation or intent to convert anyone; students are welcome to participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable.
Yes. The Chaplaincy is committed to creating a respectful, inclusive space for all students, including those who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. You are welcome here, fully and without exception.
You're welcome to drop in during open hours to use the lounge, chapel, or access the library. Appointments are only needed for one-on-one spiritual guidance or sacramental support.
Yes. Students can meet with the Chaplain for spiritual guidance, mentorship, or support with faith-related questions. Reach out directly to book a time.
Absolutely. The Chaplaincy supports students from all walks of life, including those who don’t identify with a specific faith. You’re welcome to visit, reflect, and reach out for conversation.
The Chapel is part of the primary Chaplaincy space and follows a Christian liturgical focus but offers designated self-guided quiet hours open to students from any or no faith. The Interfaith Prayer Space, located near residence, operates under the Chaplaincy portfolio but is managed in partnership by Student Affairs and Services (SAAS), the Saint Mary’s University Students Association (SMUSA), and the Muslim Students Association. The Interfaith Prayer Space offers nearby locker rooms with washing facilities for ablution.
The space is open to all students for individual prayer or reflection and is primarily accessed by Muslim students for daily prayer. We ask that all users review and follow the usage guidelines (PDF) to help maintain a respectful and welcoming environment.
The Interfaith Prayer Space is located in Loyola Academic, room 210 and is operational from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. daily. If access to this space is needed outside of these designated hours, please go to the Loyola Residence Desk to retrieve a key to the space.
Most access points to the space are through residence buildings and require a keycard. If you don’t have a keycard, you can use the non-residence entrance: look for the door between the Residence Life offices and the Housing and Residence Office. Go through that door, take the stairs on your right, and the prayer space will be directly to your right at the top. Please note that this route is not accessible due to stairs.
If you require an accessible route, visit the Loyola Residence Desk for support with entry through one of the keycard-secured, accessible entrances.
Yes. We understand how difficult it can be to leave home and how important faith and spiritual community can be in feeling grounded, especially when navigating a new country, culture and routine. Staying connected to your beliefs can offer comfort, ease homesickness, and create a strong sense of belonging.
The Chaplaincy is here to support you, whether that means participating in offerings on campus or helping you find a place of worship in Halifax that reflects your cultural background or preferred language. Just reach out; we're happy to help!
No. All Chaplaincy offerings, including retreats, prayer services, and events, are free for students.
The Chapel is not available for weddings or private religious ceremonies. However, the Chaplain can help Catholic students connect with local parishes for marriage preparation or sacramental support.
Yes. The Chaplain is happy to help students connect with local faith communities, especially Catholic parishes. If you're looking for a specific denomination, temple, mosque, or other place of worship, reach out and we'll do our best to help you find what you're looking for.