“Groton develops students to be whole, bringing together a community of scholars, athletes, musicians, and artists to seek a higher purpose that is aligned with one’s true self. And teaches us that there is something bigger than ourselves. . . . In a world of immediate self-interests, attending chapel teaches students and faculty the importance of gathering as a community and provides a much-needed time for reflection and renewal.” —A.D.

“To be completely honest, I joined Buddhist Sangha in my Second Form year because I heard it was very 'chill' and involved plenty of meditation and calming music. Those things are completely true of sangha, but it's not just a place I go every week to empty my brain and unexist for an hour.

“Having an opportunity to slow down and breathe in guided meditation and music every Sunday helps me reflect on my previous week and reset for the next. The chaplains are very welcome to suggestions and do ultra-relaxing sessions of mostly meditation before and during APs and exam weeks. In addition, I've learned a lot of cool things about Buddhism's mythology, structure, and traditions; I especially think Buddhism's ideas about the meaning and cycle of life are very unique from many other common religions, and make a lot of sense with my own personal beliefs. While I wouldn't say I am a devout Buddhist and have yet to take refuge (though I've considered it during our annual opportunity for it every May), Buddhism has taught me a lot about my own morals and inspired new additions into how I conduct myself through my life.” —S.L.

“Weekday chapel for me is a time where I can reflect not only on others’ struggles and achievements, but also find life lessons in my own experiences. Chapel talks expand my learning at Groton to more real-world experiences, and I constantly find myself using the things I have learned from seniors in my own life.” —S.M.

“I think Groton really helps to foster 'spiritual independence' and that personal connection with God. A lot of people attend church because of their parents or family or whatever, but I think at Groton students are given the opportunity to develop their own understandings and beliefs they value with their faith.” —M.O.

“Groton allows for spiritual mentorship in the sense that those who want to step into spiritual leadership roles have an abundance of options and avenues through which to pursue that. I think one thing that sets Groton apart is that most services are nearly entirely student led, something that fosters skills helpful beyond the church or synagogue, et cetera. . . . Something could also be said for working as a team and putting ego aside in favor of accomplishing a shared goal.” —C.C.

“Weekday chapel provides me with a strong start each morning, as the readings and chapel talks allow my brain to fully wake up and be engaged for the school day. Learning more about my peers on the Circle and seeing the world from a different lens is something I strongly value. Each Friday, I look forward to Hindu gatherings, as the structured time each week allows me to think about my faith in new ways through religious discourse, and practicing mental mindfulness in these weekly services has allowed me to go through my daily life with more clarity and attention to detail. Overall, both types of Spiritual Life practices on campus have rewarded me mentally and spiritually since I arrived on the Circle.” —N.L.

“Sangha means community, and Groton builds exactly that. By being a part of Buddhist Sangha I met lifelong friends I would have never interacted with otherwise. Through group discussions, shared experiences, and even meditation walks, I have reflected and connected. In the past two years, I have gained insight of who I am, how I think, and where I want to be. I found myself, and with that, I found my community.” —N.K.

“Buddhist Sangha has a special place in my heart because it showed me a different way of life. It taught me how I can look at situations differently, allowing me to become happier and mentally stronger. I apply this to my daily life since it has been so helpful.

“I believe weekday chapel has been helpful for learning people’s different backgrounds. With Groton’s diverse student population, students have different experiences and interpretations of Groton, making their chapel talks interesting to listen to and learn from.” —Y.T.

“For me, Shabbat has served as an opportunity to decompress emotionally and mentally from the week prior. Because it is an hour guarded from the pressures of boarding school and dedicated to a common denominator of spirituality, the conversations we have each Friday are predicated on a special level of humility that leaves everyone walking out of the Gardner Room a little more lightheaded than we entered.” —J.A.

"Chapel has become a grounding moment in my week—a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with a deeper sense of purpose and community.” —L.T.