Resources

These are the authorized organizations supporting students in the Spiritual Centre.

Campus Ministry at Algonquin College

For over 20 years, Campus Ministry has been providing religious and spiritual support to the students and staff at Algonquin College. Please click on the link below to learn more about Campus Ministry, their team and events held on a daily/weekly basis. 

Learn more about Campus Ministry: www.campusministryac.com 

How to become recognized as an authorized chaplaincy at Algonquin College’s Spiritual Centre

Spiritual Centre Directive – This document outlines how the Spiritual Centre operates as a service provided by Algonquin College. We encourage individuals and groups participating in the Spiritual Centre to review the directive. Any questions can be directed to Yolande Parsons (613-727-4723, ext. 6456). 

Join the Spiritual Centre – If you are interested in volunteering as a spiritual leader or organization, please complete the linked form and send it to Yolande Parsons (613-727-4723, ext. 6456) to start the authorization process. Algonquin College supports a diverse population and we welcome groups/individuals to join our community. 

Community Resources

Muslim Community

Majed Jarrar, a local imam, is offering chaplaincy through the uOttawa Multifaith Centre. He is available to meet with students for counselling and spiritual discussion. Click here to book an appointment with Majed. 

The Ottawa Mosque welcomes students and is offering all services, including counselling and financial support.

In October, they will be opening a dedicated hall for students to use as a study room, with free high-speed internet and a self-serve café available.

For anyone interested, here is an app that shows all halal restaurants in Ottawa.

Jewish Community

Hillel Ottawa is a Jewish cultural club based at Ottawa U and serving students of Ottawa U, Carleton and Algonquin College. They are dedicated to creating a pluralistic, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all Jewish students, building the Jewish community, and fostering new friendships. Hillel organizes events, provides community resources and helps students in crisis. Connect with them online through their website or Facebook page, or reach out to one of the Hillel staff and schedule a one-on-one, socially-distanced coffee get-together.

Christian Community

Our Christian chaplain, Yuriy Derkach, is available by appointment to students and employees of all faiths and beliefs for online spiritual counselling. Contact him by email to set up an appointment: derkacy@algonquincollege.com.

Check out this list of local churches.

Places of Worship in the Ottawa Area

Anglican

  • All Saints Anglican Church Westboro, 347 Richmond Rd.
  • Anglican Church of the Cross, 152 Metcalfe St.
  • Julian of Norwich Anglican Church, Nepean, ON
  • Christ Church Cathedral Ottawa, 414 Sparks St.
  • Church of the Ascension, 253 Echo Dr.
  • Church of St. Barnabas, 70 James St.
  • Ottawa Anglican, 71 Bronson Ave.
  • St. Aidan’s Church (Anglican) Elmvale Acres, 934 Hamlet Rd.
  • St. Albans Church, 454 King Edward Ave
  • St. Columba Anglican Church, 24 Sandridge Rd.
  • St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 154 Somerset Street West
  • St. Luke’s Anglican Church, 760 Somerset St. W.
  • St. Mark’s Anglican Church, 1606 Fisher Ave.
  • St. Martin’s Anglican Church, 2120 Prince Charles Rd.
  • St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, 217 First Ave.
  • St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Almonte, ON
  • St. Peter & St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 152 Metcalfe St.
  • St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, 930 Watson St.
  • St. Thomas Anglican Church, Stittsville, ON
  • Trinity Anglican Church, 1230 Bank St.

Baha’i

  • Association for Bahá’í Studies, 34 Copernicus St.
  • Ottawa Bahá’í Centre, Vanier, ON
  • The Baha’i Community Of Canada-Ottawa Office, 34 Copernicus St.

Baptist

  • Alta Vista Baptist Church, 887 Canterbury Ave.
  • Bethany Baptist Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 224-5611
  • Britannia Baptist Church, 2860 Ahearn Ave., (613) 721-3390
  • Bromley Road Baptist Church, 1900 Lauder Dr.
  • Calvary Baptist Church, 107 Main St.
  • Eastview Baptist Church, Vanier, ON, (613) 749-5265
  • Emmanuel Baptist Church, 1400 Carling Ave., (613) 799-1097
  • First Baptist Church, 140 Laurier Ave. W
  • Fourth Avenue Baptist Church, 816 Bank St.
  • Grace Baptist Church, Stittsville, ON, (613) 838-5247
  • Haven Baptist Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 825-9695
  • Kanata Baptist Church, Kanata, ON, (613) 836-3145
  • Longfields Baptist Church, Nepean, ON
  • McPhail Memorial Baptist Church, 249 Bronson Ave, (613) 235-7617
  • Osgoode Baptist and Vernon United Church, Vernon, ON, (613) 821-0494
  • Ottawa Baptist Evangelical Church, 284 King Edward Ave., (613) 789-3202
  • Parkdale Baptist Church, 307 Richmond Rd., (613) 729-4022
  • Parkdale Baptist Church, 474 Parkdale Ave.
  • Pleasant Park Baptist Church, 414 Pleasant Park Rd.
  • Westboro Campus of Parkdale Baptist Church, 307 Richmond Rd., (613) 729-4022

Buddhist

  • Bodhikaram Temple, Cambodian Buddhist Temple of Ottawa, Gloucester, ON, (613) 230-6268
  • Buddhist Congress Of Canada, 1481 Heron Rd.,(613) 321-5677
  • Chùa Phổ Đà, 1002 Somerset St. W, (613) 213-2516
  • Hilda Jayewardenaramaya Buddhist Monastery, 1481 Heron Rd., (613) 321-5677
  • Fo Guang Shan Temple, Richmond, ON, (613) 759-8111
  • Ottawa Buddhist Society
  • Ottawa Buddhist Vihara, 4 Christie St., (613) 565-0842
  • Ottawa Palyul Centre, Nepean, ON
  • Ottawa Theravada Buddhist Vihara and Cultural Center, Orléans, ON, (613) 424-4482

Catholic

  • Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 194 Fourth Ave., (613) 232-4891
  • Canadian Martyrs Parish, 100 Main St., (613) 232-5347
  • Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 289 Spencer St, (613) 722-9139
  • Holy Cross Parish, 685 Walkley Rd.
  • Holy Name of Mary Parish, Almonte, ON, (613) 256-1034
  • Immaculate Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, 1758 Alta Vista Dr., (613) 733-9636
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, 385 Sussex Dr.
  • Our Lady of Fatima, 153 Woodroffe Ave., (613) 722-7661
  • Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, 153 Wellington St. W
  • Saint Charbel Parish, Ottawa, 245 Donald St.
  • Saint Hyacinth Roman Catholic Polish Church, 201 Lebreton St. N, (613) 230-0804
  • Saint Patrick Basilica, 220 Kent St.
  • St. Anthony of Padua, 427 Booth St.
  • St. Augustine Church, 1060 Baseline Rd., (613) 225-7388
  • St. Basil’s Church, 940 Rex Ave., (613) 729-5149
  • St. Bernard Church, 1720 St Bernard St., (613) 738-1943
  • St. George’s Parish Office, 415 Piccadilly Avenue North
  • St. Joseph’s Church, 174 Rue Wilbrod St.
  • St. Mary’s Parish, 100 Young St.
  • St. Theresa Roman Catholic Church, 95 Somerset St. W, (613) 235-5119

Chinese Alliance

  • Ottawa Agape Chinese Alliance Church, 5492 S River Dr.
  • Ottawa Chinese Alliance Church, 22 Eccles St., (613) 235-8187

Christian Reformed

  • Calvary Christian Reformed Church, 3782 Russell Rd., (613) 737-4063
  • Calvin Christian Reformed Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 225-2889

Church of Christ

  • Christ Church Cathedral Ottawa, 414 Sparks St., (613) 236-9149
  • First Church of Christ, Scientist, 288 Metcalfe St., (613) 233-1427
  • Ottawa Church of Christ, 250 Rue Somerset St. E, (613) 416-8220
  • Ottawa Church Of Christ, 1515 Chomley Crescent, (613) 737-0701
  • Ottawa Church Of God, 1820 Carling Ave.
  • Ottawa Community Of Christ, 888 Byron Ave., (613) 722-8436

Evangelical

  • Christian Family Worship Centre Ottawa, Nepean, ON
  • Ethiopian Evangelical Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 725-9777
  • Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 224-1971
  • Jesus Light of the World Arabic Evangelical Church – Ottawa, Gloucester, ON, (613) 742-8500
  • McPhail Memorial Baptist Church, 249 Bronson Ave., (613) 235-7617
  • Prince of Life Christian Tamil Church Ottawa, 2400 Alta Vista Dr., (613) 462-5722

 

 

Hindu

  • Hindu Temple of Ottawa Carleton, Gloucester, ON,(613) 822-1531
  • Ottawa Sivan Temple, North Gower, ON, (613) 489-1774
  • Shiv Shakti Temple, (613) 864-7227
  • Vishva Shakti Durga Mandir Association, 55 Clarey Ave., (613) 321-0675

Islam

  • Abo Ther Alghafari Mosque, 273 Donald St., (613) 747-6252
  • Abu Bakr Musalla, 1023 Merivale Rd.
  • Assalam Mosque Corporation, 100-2335 St. Laurent Blvd., (613) 739-3939
  • Assunnah Muslims Association, 1216 Hunt Club Pl., (613) 523-9977
  • East Ottawa Masjid and Community Center, 967 St. Laurent Blvd. Suite 3  In Donald Plaza, (613) 255-7581
  • Faizan-e-Madina Islamic Center Ottawa (Dawat-e-Islami Canda), 415 McArthur Ave., (343) 262-6395
  • Imam Ali Masjid, 1606 Walkley Rd.,(613) 656-9888
  • Immam Mahdi Mosque, 2285B St. Laurent Blvd.
  • Islamic Society of Sandy Hill, 117 Mann Ave.
  • Jami Omar Mosque, Nepean, ON, (613) 828-2222
  • Masjid Bilal, Orléans, ON, (613) 841-0786
  • Masjid ar-Rahmah (Mosque of Mercy), 1216 Hunt Club Rd., (613) 523-9977
  • Mosque-prayer room, University of Ottawa 121, University Private
  • Musalla As-Sahaba, 2835 Dumaurier Ave., (613) 321-5459
  • Muslim Association of Canada – Ottawa Chapter, 1085 Grenon Ave., (613) 828-1112
  • Muslim Non-Profit Housing Corporation, 467 Laurier Ave. W, (613) 594-3911
  • Premier Street Mosque, 151 Premier Ave.
  • SNMC Mosque, Nepean, ON, (613) 440-6300
  • The Islamic Society of Gloucester, Gloucester, ON, (613) 223-8727
  • The Ottawa Mosque, 251 Northwestern Ave., (613) 722-8763

Jehovah’s Witness

  • Jehovah’s Witnesses, Smiths Falls, ON
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Arnprior, ON, (613) 623-0153
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 405 Gladstone Ave., 613) 230-4352
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Gloucester, ON, (613) 749-3257
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Kanata, ON, (613) 591-9067
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Nepean, ON, (613) 843-0070
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Nepean, ON, (613) 828-1648
  • Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Orléans, ON, (613) 841-3360

Jewish

  • Beit Tikvah of Ottawa, Nepean, ON, (613) 723-1800
  • Chabad of Kanata, Kanata, ON, (613) 668-2770
  • Congregation Adath Shalom, 31 Nadolny Sachs Private, (613) 240-4564
  • Glebe Shul, 302 Fifth Ave., (613) 413-4939
  • Jewish Federation Ottawa, 21 Nadolny Sachs Private, (613) 798-4696
  • Kehillat Beth Israel Congregation, 1400 Coldrey Ave., (613) 728-3501
  • Machzikei Hadas, 2310 Virginia Dr., (613) 521-9700
  • Or Haneshamah – Ottawa’s Reconstructionist Community, 30 Cleary Ave., (613) 239-4988
  • Ottawa Torah Centre Chabad, Nepean, ON, (613) 843-7770
  • Temple Israel, 1301 Prince of Wales Dr., (613) 224-1802
  • The Orthodox Community Ohev Yisroel, 516 Rideau St., (613) 565-6194
  • Young Israel of Ottawa, 1762 Carling Ave., (613) 722-8394

Lutheran

  • Abiding Word Evangelical Lutheran Church, Orléans, ON, (613) 824-2524
  • All Saints Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, (613) 828-9284
  • Divine Word Evangelical Lutheran Church, Nepean, ON · In Village Square, (613) 825-1629
  • Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 224-1971
  • Martin Luther Church, Ottawa, ON, (613) 733-5804
  • Our Saviour Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, (819) 318-2075
  • Peace Latvian Ev Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, (613) 230-4085
  • Resurrection Lutheran Church, Orléans, ON, (613) 830-2043
  • St. Luke Lutheran Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, (613) 749-1731
  • St. John Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, (613) 749-6953
  • St. Paul Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, (613) 234-0321
  • St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Ottawa, ON, 613) 233-9911

Mennonite

  • Ottawa Mennonite Church, 1830 Kilborn Ave. (613) 733-6729

Non-denominational Christian

  • All Nations Church Central Ottawa, 33 Quill St.
  • Chinese Christian Church of Ottawa, 116 Empress Ave., (613) 563-3043
  • Christ Church Cathedral Ottawa, 414 Sparks St.
  • Calvary Fellowship of Ottawa, 816 Bank St.
  • Grace City Church Ottawa, c/o The Shaw Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr.
  • Ignite Depot Ottawa, Greely, ON
  • Liberty Church, Kanata, ON · In Kanata Entertain
  • myChurch Ottawa, Nepean, ON · In Algonquin College
  • Ottawa Christian Assembly, (613) 218-3886
  • Ottawa Church of Christ, 250 Rue Somerset St. E
  • Ottawa Church Of Christ, 1515 Chomley Crescent
  • Ottawa Community Of Christ, 888 Byron Ave.
  • Ottawa Russian Christian Church, 474 Parkdale Ave.
  • Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) – Ottawa, 1800 Bank St. #104
  • Prince of Life Christian Tamil Church Ottawa, 2400 Alta Vista Dr.
  • Southgate Church – Ottawa West Campus, 415 Kenwood Ave.
  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1017 Prince of Wales Dr.
  • The Gathering Ottawa: Sunday Church Services, Gloucester, ON
  • The Meeting Hall of the Church in Ottawa, 1947 Bank St.

Orthodox

  • Annunciation Orthodox Cathedral, 15 Lebreton St. N, (613) 230-2687
  • Church of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 289 Spencer St., (613) 722-9139
  • Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church, 721 Somerset St. W, (613) 723-7790
  • Debre Zihon St. Mary Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church, Gatineau, Quebec, (418) 476-2448
  • Dormition of the Virgin Mary Greek Orthodox Church, 1315 Prince of Wales Dr., (613) 225-8016
  • Kidus Gabriel Eritrean Orthodox, 2285C St. Laurent Blvd
  • Parking Indigo Ottawa – St Mark & St Mary Of Egypt Coptic Orthodox Church, 555 Parkdale Ave., (613) 232-4801
  • Protection of the Holy Virgin Memorial Church, 99 Stonehurst Ave., (613) 729-1362
  • Saint Xenia Russian Orthodox Church, Kanata, ON, (613) 599-9367
  • St. Elias Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral
  • St. Elias Centre Conference and Banquet Facility, 750 Ridgewood Ave., (613) 738-2222
  • St. George & St. Anthony Coptic Orthodox Church, Gloucester, ON, (613) 741-8000
  • St. Joseph Coptic Orthodox Church, Navan, ON · In Paroisse Notre-Dame-des-Champs, (613) 513-8341
  • St. Mark & St. Mary of Egypt Coptic Orthodox Church, 555 Parkdale Ave.
  • St. Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, Ottawa, Nepean, ON, (613) 596-0052
  • St. Matthew Romanian Orthodox Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 878-1263
  • St. Stefan – Serbian Orthodox Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 738-8045
  • St. Teklehaimanot Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, 915 Merivale Rd., (613) 722-6702
  • St. Thomas Orthodox Church Ottawa, 1418 Orillia St.
  • The Parish of Our Lady of Kazan and the Protection of the Mother of God, 412 Booth St., (613) 728-6006
  • Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral Assumption Of The Blessed Virgin, 1000 Byron Ave., (613) 728-0856

Pentecostal

  • Bethel Pentecostal Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 226-1383
  • Calvary Church, Gloucester, ON, (613) 746-5769
  • Church of Pentecost, Nepean, ON, (613) 798-0905
  • Community Pentecostal Church, Orléans, ON, (613) 837-3555
  • Gospel for the Global Mission Church, 2285 St. Laurent Blvd, (613) 612-0889
  • Holy International Pentecostal Church, #211 · In Bronson Centre
  • Jubilee Apostolic United Pentecostal Church, Gloucester, ON, (613) 247-9349
  • Kerala Christian Fellowship, Ottawa, Nepean, ON, (613) 715-2244
  • Lifecentre, Kanata, ON, (613) 592-1213
  • Mount Zion Church of the Firstborn, 715 St. Laurent Blvd., (613) 744-7578
  • Ottawa Church Of God, 1820 Carling Ave., (613) 729-3172
  • Parkway Road Pentecostal Church, Greely, ON, (613) 821-1056
  • Peace Tower Church, 343 Bronson Ave., (613) 729-6343
  • Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) – Ottawa, 1800 Bank St. #104, (613) 263-5547
  • Stittsville United Pentecostal Church, Stittsville, ON, (613) 831-7207
  • Woodvale Pentecostal Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 829-2362

 

Presbyterian

Presbyterian churches in Ottawa: 

  • Gatineau, St. Andrew’s Church (Aylmer)
  • Carp, Trinity Church, 1817 Richardson Side Rd. Carp, 613-836-1429
  • Kars, St. Andrew’s Church, 6810 Rideau Valley Drive, Kars South,
  • Vernon, Osgoode Church, 8653 Bank Street,
  • Manotick, Knox Church, Manotick ON, 613-692-4228
  • Orleans, Grace Church, 1220 Old Tenth Line Road, 613-824-9260
  • Calvin Hungarian Church, Ottawa, 91 Pike Street,
  • Gloucester Church, 91 Pike Street, 613-737-3820
  • Knox Church, 120 Lisgar Street, 613-238-4774
  • Parkwood Church, 10 Chesterton Drive, 613-225-6648
  • St. Andrew’s Church, 82 Kent Street, 613-232-9042
  • St. David and St. Martin Church, 444 St. Laurent Blvd. 613-745-1756
  • St. Giles Church, 174 First Avenue, 613-235-2551
  • St. Paul’s Church, 971 Woodroffe Avenue, 613-729-3384
  • St. Stephen’s Church, 579 Parkdale Avenue, 613-728-0558
  • St. Timothy’s Church, 2400 Alta Vista Drive, 613-733-0131
  • Westminster Church, 470 Roosevelt Avenue, 613-722-1144
  • Richmond, St. Andrew’s Church, 3529 McBean Street, 613-838-3723
  • Stittsville, St. Andrew’s Church, 613-831-1256

To learn more, click here.

Sikh

  • Ottawa Sikh Society Gurdwara, 25 Gurdwara Rd., Nepean

Unitarian

  • First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa, 30 Cleary Ave., (613) 725-1066
  • Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ottawa, 400 McArthur Ave., (613) 421-8360

United

  • Barrhaven United Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 825-1707
  • Bell’s Corners United Church, Nepean, ON, (613) 820-8103
  • Britannia United Church, 985 Pinecrest Rd · (613) 828-6018
  • Carleton Memorial United Church, 740 Melfa Crescent, (613) 224-7433
  • Centretown United Church, 507 Bank St., (613) 232-9854
  • Emmanuel United Church, 691 Smyth Rd., (613) 733-0437
  • First United Church, 347 Richmond Rd., (613) 232-1016
  • Hawthorne United Church, 2244 Russell Rd., (613) 733-4446
  • Glebe-St. James United Church, 650 Lyon St. S, (613) 236-0617
  • Kitchissippi United Church, 630 Island Park Dr., (613) 722-7254
  • MacKay United Church, 39 Dufferin Rd., (613) 749-8727
  • Orleans United Church, Orléans, ON, (613) 837-4321
  • Parkdale United Church, 429 Parkdale Ave., (613) 728-8656
  • Rideau Park United Church, 2203 Alta Vista Dr., (613) 733-3156
  • Riverside United Church, 3191 Riverside Dr., (613) 733-7735
  • Southminster United Church, 15 Aylmer Ave., (613) 730-6874
  • St. Paul’s Eastern United Church, 473 Cumberland St., (613) 237-1821
  • Trinity United Church, 1099 Maitland Ave., (613) 225-3627
  • United Church of Canada – Ottawa Presbytery, Nepean, ON, (613) 224-5318
  • Woodroffe United Church, 207 Woodroffe Ave., (613) 722-9250

Culture and Religion

Nutrition Around the World

These biweekly videos give recipes and show the preparation of healthy foods from different countries. Videos and recipes are available on the Health Services website in Nutrition and Fitness.

Learn more

Overview of World Religions

The Capital Region Interfaith Council website offers short descriptions of their member groups which include Baha’i, Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Judaism, several Christian groups and First Nations, among others.

Learn more

Islam Resources From Yaqeen Institute

The Yaqeen institute is a well-known organization based in Texas that conducts research and provides free online resources relevant to Islam, for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Resources include lectures, articles, videos, discussions, webinars, and pre-prepared talks on a large variety of topics, including faith, politics and theology, history, family and community, nature and science, and psychology.

Learn more

Online Spiritual Resources

TAO Mindfulness Exercises

These short videos offer guided meditation exercises to help promote relaxation and mindfulness.

What is Heartfulness Meditation?

This video explains the meaning of Heartfulness Meditation and how it can help in overcoming anxiety.

Heartfulness Meditation for Relaxation Video

Heartfulness Relaxation is a simple tool to help relax both body and mind.  This calming 6-minute video can help you destress whenever and wherever you need to.

Religious and Cultural Celebrations

Religious Holidays

Bahaʼí

  • Mar. 19-20, 2021 – Naw-Rúz is New Year’s Day, the first day of the year in the Bahá’í Era, in which practitioners break-fast and celebrate during the evening.
  • April 21-May 2, 2021 – The Festival of Ri dván meaning “the King of Festivals” runs for 12 days to commemorate the 12 days Baha’u’llah spent in the garden of Ridván outside Baghdad. The first, ninth and twelfth days are holy days on which work is suspended.
  • May 22-23, 2021 – The Declaration of The Báb commemorates the day in 1844 whenThe Báb announced He is the Herald of the new age.
  • May 29, 2021 – Ascension of Báha’u’lláh marks the anniversary of the death of the founder of the Bahá’í faith.
  • July 9, 2021 – The Martyrdom of The Báb is the memorial of the death of The Báb, on this day work is suspended
  • Nov. 6/7, 2021 – The birth anniversary of The Báb, the Herald of the new age for Bahá’ís.

Buddhism

  • Jan. 28, 2021 – Mahayana New Year Because the beginning is marked by sighting the moon, the actual date is not always predictable (3 days from the first full moon in January).
  • Feb. 12, 2021 – Lunar New Year is the first day after the new moon, a religious and cultural festival for Chinese, Vietnamese and Koreans of Buddhist and other backgrounds; this is the year of the ox.
  • Feb. 12-14, 2021 – Tibetan New Year – Losar is a 15-day celebration, with the main celebration on the first three days.
  • Feb. 15, 2021 – Nirvana Day- Nehan-e is the Mahayana memorial of the historical Buddha’s passing away.
  • Apr. 27, 2021 – Theravada New Year *Because the beginning is marked by sighting the moon, the actual date is not always predictable (3 days from the first full moon in April).
  • May 19, 2021- Wesak/ Buddha Day/ Visakha Puja is the most important day of the year for Theravada Buddhists that commemorates the birth, awakening and passing away of the historical Buddha; Siddhartha Gautama.

Christianity

Catholic, Protestant

  • Dec. 25, 2020/2021 – Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the promised messiah. More importance is given to this holiday in Western Christianity.
  • Feb. 17, 2021 – Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent. the period of forty days before Easter in which many Christians sacrifice ordinary pleasures to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice.
  • Feb, 17-Mar. 29, 2021- Lent is the period of forty days before Easter in which many Christians sacrifice ordinary pleasures to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice.
  • Apr. 2, 2021 – Good Friday commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ and his submission to death by crucifixion.
  • Apr. 4, 2021 – Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.

Orthodox, Ukrainian Catholic, Coptic

  • Jan. 6, 2021 – Epiphany commemorates the revelation of God through Jesus Christ and marks the time the three wise men arrived in Bethlehem and presented gifts to the baby Jesus.
  • Jan. 7, 2021 – Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the promised messiah
  • Apr. 30, 2021 – Holy Friday commemorates the Passion of Jesus Christ and his submission to death by crucifixion.
  • May 2 – Pascha celebrates the resurrection of Jesus.

Easter

What is Easter?

Easter is a Christian holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus that, according to the New Testament, occurred on the third day after his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans. Easter is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the spring equinox which, in 2021, is April 4. Orthodox Christians will celebrate this important event on May 2.

The Friday before Easter, Good Friday, marks the day that Jesus was crucified. Easter is preceded by Lent, a 40-day period of solemn observance and preparation for Easter. Observers of Lent may fast or give up certain foods and activities, and take time to reflect on, and honour, the sacrifices of Jesus.

Bible Gateway offers a New Testament account of the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus.

The resurrection of Jesus represents the triumph of good over evil, sin and death, and, occurring at the beginning of spring, also signifies rebirth.

Easter Traditions

Many Easter traditions and symbols, and indeed the name “Easter” itself, are associated with the pagan celebration of spring that predates Christianity. The pagan goddess Eostre was celebrated during the spring equinox in pre-Christian times. Decorated eggs, symbolizing new life, rebirth and spring, have been part of Easter celebrations since medieval times. Rabbits, symbols of fertility, became a part of Easter celebrations in 17th century Germany when the Easter hare brought eggs to good children. Today, many people enjoy decorating eggs and hunting for candy and chocolate eggs at Easter time. Using natural dyes for colouring eggs is an interesting alternative to commercial dyes that you might like to try: How to Dye Easter Eggs Naturally.

Traditional Easter foods include lamb, ham and hot cross buns.

Hot Cross Buns

Hot cross buns originated in England, where the cross is thought to represent the horns of oxen sacrificed for the pagan goddess Eostre, or possibly the four phases of the moon. For Christians, the cross symbolizes the crucifixion of Jesus. These soft yeasted sweet buns, filled with raisins, currants and spices, are a delicious way to celebrate Easter.

Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ¼ cup honey (or sugar)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 packet (2¼ tsp.) instant yeast
  • 3-4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ cup raisins
  • ½ cup currants (or more raisins)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, toss the raisins and currants with a tablespoon of warm water and let sit until needed.
  2. Warm milk and butter together until butter is melted. Whisk in honey or sugar. Let cool until just warm and then whisk in the egg.
  3. In a large bowl, combine 2½ cups of the flour, yeast, salt and spices. Add milk mixture and mix well with a wooden spoon or stand mixer. Stir in raisins and currants before the dough is too stiff. Knead, adding flour as needed, to make a soft, smooth dough.
  4. Place dough in a clean, oiled bowl and flip the dough over to coat it lightly with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic or a towel and let rise at room temperature until dough has almost doubled in volume, 1-2 hours.
  5. Gently punch down the dough to deflate. Cut dough into 12 pieces and form each piece into a smooth ball. Place balls of dough in a 9×13-inch pan that has been buttered or lined with parchment paper and flatten slightly. Cover and let rise until almost double, 1-2 hours.
  6. To make crosses on buns, just before baking:
  7. Mix 3 tablespoons of flour with 1 tablespoon of sugar and add 1½ tablespoons of cool water to make a batter with a paste-like consistency that can be piped. Scoop this mixture into a small plastic bag (a Ziploc bag works well) and cut off a corner of the bag to make a small hole, about 1/8-inch. Squeeze lines of batter onto risen buns to form a cross on each, right before putting the buns in the oven.
  8. Bake at 375⁰F for about 20 minutes, or until buns are lightly browned and firm to the touch.

Hindu

  • Jan. 14, 2021 – Makar Sankranti, a harvest festival that marks the increase of the sun twinned with the Punjab celebration Lohri, which marks the passing of the winter solstice.
  • Feb. 16, 2021 – Vasanta Panchami is a North Indian celebration associated with Saraswati and Lakshmi, the Goddess of Learning and the Goddess of Wealth as well as the colour yellow.
  • Mar. 11, 2021 – Maha Shivaratri, “the Great Night of Shiva”, is a major festival in Hinduism, but one that is solemn and marks a remembrance of “overcoming darkness and ignorance” in life and the world and honours the God Shiva.
  • Mar. 29, 2021 – Holi is the Festival of Colours that welcomes in Spring, generally celebrated over two days, with people throwing colourful powder and coloured water on each other.
  • Aug. 30, 2021 – Sri Krishna Jayanti (Janmashtami) celebrates the birthday of Krishna, the eighth incarnation of the God Vishnu.
  • Oct. 6-14, 2021 – Chaitra Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to nine forms of Goddess Shakti.
  • Nov. 4, 2021 – Diwali is a popular festival known as the Festival of Lights, celebrated continuously for five days, associated with a story about the destruction of evil by Lord Vishnu in one of his many manifestations. *Also celebrated by Sikhs and Jains.

Islam

  • Mar. 20, 2021 – Naw-Rúz marks the spring equinox and the New Year. It is celebrated by many religious communities originating in Persia, including some Muslims.
  • April 12-May 11, 2021 – First Day of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the month of fasting, self-examination and devotion during which physically able Muslims do not eat or drink from the first sign of dawn until sunset.
  • May 12-13, 2021 – Eid al-Fitr  is “the breaking of the fast” that celebrates the end of Ramadan
  • July 19-20, 2021 – Eid al-Adha’  At the Festival of Sacrifice, as Abraham offered his son, Ishmael, to God, so Muslims offer goat, sheep & camels and then distribute the meat to the poor. This is the concluding act of pilgrimage (Hajj) but also observed even when not on pilgrimage. (Observance begins at the sunset of the previous day, but special worship and prayers begin on this day).

Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year for Muslims, the followers of Islam. It is a holy month of fasting, introspection, and prayer. Muslims believe that it was during this month that God revealed to Mohammed the first verses of the Quran, the holy book for Muslims. During Ramadan, Allah forgives, blesses, and rewards faithful Muslims.

Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, occurs on different dates each year, as the Islamic calendar is based on the phases of the moon. In 2021, Ramadan begins at sunset on Monday, April 12, and ends on Wednesday, May 12.

Practices

Ramadan is a time for prayer; charity and generosity; contemplation of one’s relationship with God; and intense study of the Quran. It is also a time of celebration and joy. During this holiday, people gather with friends and family to share meals and exchange gifts.

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk each day. This practice is considered mandatory for all healthy adults. Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the soul. It also serves as a  reminder of the need for gratitude and empathy for those in the world who are hungry and less fortunate. Muslims break their daily fasts by sharing meals with family and friends after sunset.

Eid al-Fitr

The end of Ramadan is celebrated with a three-day festival known as Eid al-Fitr, or the Feast of Breaking the Fast, one of Islam’s major holidays. Eid al-Fitr includes special prayers, meals with friends and relatives, and often the exchange of gifts. Eid is a time to be charitable, visit friends and family, and attend communal prayers.

If you want to wish your Muslim friends a happy Ramadan or happy Eid al-Fitr, you can just say, “Happy Ramadan!” or “Happy Eid!”, but the standard greetings are “Ramadan/Eid kareem” (which means “have a generous Ramadan/Eid”) or “Ramadan/Eid mubarak” (which means “have a blessed Ramadan/Eid”).

Ramadan mubarek!

Chocolate Covered Dates with Tahini Filling

Here is a sweet treat to enjoy during Eid celebrations—a delicious way to break the fast!

Ingredients

  • 12 Medjool dates
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios (optional)
  • 4 ounces/100 grams dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Toppings

  • sea salt
  • sesame seeds
  • finely chopped pistachios (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove pits from dates by opening up a slit but not breaking them fully in half.
  2. Mix together the tahini, pistachios (if using), and a pinch of salt. Spoon a small teaspoon of tahini mixture into each date and close the slit. Place filled dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 20 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, melt chocolate and coconut oil in a heat-proof bowl set over a small pan of simmering water 1 inch deep. Do not let the bottom of the bowl touch the water. Stir until chocolate is melted and then remove from heat. To melt chocolate in the microwave, place chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe dish and microwave for 60 seconds at 50% power. Stir, then microwave for another 30 seconds. Stir and repeat until melted. Set aside.
  4. Remove dates from the freezer and dip them into the chocolate while they are still cold. You can dip the whole date or just part of it, but be sure to cover the slit in the date with chocolate.
  5. Place chocolate-covered dates back onto a baking sheet and quickly sprinkle with sesame seeds, pistachios, and salt. Refrigerate dates until chocolate is set. Serve chilled.

Jainism

  • Apr. 25, 2021 – Mahavira-Jayanti celebrates the birth of the Lord Mahavira, “Great Hero”, the twenty-fourth and last Tirthankara of his time: a savior who has succeeded in crossing over life’s stream of rebirths and has made a path for others to follow.
  • Sept. 4, 2021 – Paryushana-parva is the holiest periods of the year for the Shvetambara sect, includes fasting, worship and reading the life story of Lord Mahavira from the Kalpasutra. It is celebrated over eight days ending on Samvastsari.
  • Sept. 11, 2021 – Samvastsari, the Day of Forgiveness, is the last day of Paryusha-na-parva and is observed by fasting, introspection, confession and penance.
  • Oct. 22, 2020 – Aymbil Ori is a nine day festival occurring twice a year in which Jains revere the Nav-pads, “nine-posts”, the nine supreme posts in the universe. This involves a special type of fasting.
  • Nov. 4, 2021 – Mahavira Nirvana & Diwali, on this day the twenty-fourth Tirthankara attained nirvana and release from the cycle of rebirth.

Sikhism

  • Nov. 24, 2020/21 – Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth of the Ten Gurus, he is remembered for his defence of the Sikh faith, but also for being willing to give up his life for the religious liberty of all faiths (1621-1675).
  • Nov. 30, 2020/21 – Birth Date of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of the Sikh faith, an accomplished poet and the first of the Ten Gurus in 1469 CE.
  • Mar. 29-31, 2021 – Hola Mohalla~three day festival celebrated around the time of the Hindu festival of Holi that incorporates martial arts demonstrations and simulated battles.
  • Apr. 13, 2021 – Vaisakhi is the Sikh new year festival and commemorates 1699, the year Sikhism was born. Vaisakhi is also a long-established harvest festival.
  • June 16, 2021 – Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji~the fifth Sikh Guru and the first Sikh Martyr was killed in 1606 by Mughal authorities, his death transformed the Sikhs into saint-soldiers in the fight against oppression.
  • Oct. 20, 2021 – Installation of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji celebrates Guru Gobind Singhi Ji (the tenth Guru) passing the Guruship to the Holy Scriptures.
  • Nov. 14, 2021 – Bandi Chhor Divas commemorated the return of Guru Hargobind Ji (the sixth Guru) to the holy city of Amritsar after negotiating the release of himself and 52 princes held for political reasons.

Judaism

  • Dec. 10-18, 2020; Nov. 28-Dec. 6, 2021 – Hanukkah is the Jewish festival of lights, and lasts for eight days. Hanukkah commemorates the Jewish struggle for religious freedom.
  • Feb. 25-26, 2021 – Purim celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from the wicked Haman in the days of Queen Esther of Persia.
  • March 22-April 4, 2021 – Pesah (Passover) commemorates to departure of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Celebrated over seven to eight days, the first two days and the last two are holidays
  • May 17-18, 2021 – Shavuot marks the closing of the seven weeks that follow Pesah and commemorates the giving of the Torah to Moses and the Israel-ites. It is celebrated over one day in Israel and two days by Jews in the Diaspora (outside of Israel).
  • July 17-18, 2021Tish’a B’Av, the ninth of the month of Av, is a major fast day commemorating the destruction of the first and second temples in Jerusalem in ancient times
  • Sept. 6-8, 2021 – Rosh Hashanah, New year’s Day in the Jewish calendar (5777), the anniversary of the creation of the world and the first of the Ten Days of Awe.
  • Sept. 15-16, 2021 – Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is the year’s holiest day and a day of fasting. Jews ask forgiveness from and forgive others, as to re-establish oneness with God, as well ask confessing their sins and asking God for forgiveness
  • Sept, 20-27, 2021 – Sukkoth is a pilgrimage feast and a time of thanksgiving for God’s presence in creation and among the Jewish people.
  • Sept. 27-28, 2021 – Shmini Atzeret, the Eighth Day of Assembly, is a holiday that concludes Sukkoth and marks the beginning of winter in Israel.
  • Sept. 28-29, 2021 – Simchat Torah, Rejoicing of the Law, celebrates the beginning of the annual Torah reading cycle at the synagogue.

What is Passover?

Passover, or Pesach in Hebrew, is a week-long Jewish holiday beginning on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, which in 2021 is March 27-April 4. This holiday commemorates the exodus of Israelites from Egypt and their liberation from slavery. According to the Torah, Moses helped the Israelites escape from Egypt after he was instructed by God to free them.

Passover Traditions

One of the most important Passover traditions is abstaining from eating all leavened foods throughout Passover. Matzo, a type of unleavened flatbread, is eaten instead. It is thought that the Jewish people left Egypt quickly and could not wait for their bread to rise, so they took matzo with them on their journey.

Another integral part of the Passover celebrations is the Seder, a special meal that family and friends share on the first two nights of Passover. During the Seder, the story of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt is retold. The Seder plate displays foods with significance to the exodus from Egypt, including matzo; bitter herbs symbolizing the bitterness of slavery; a lamb shank bone representing sacrifice made when ancient Hebrews fled Egypt; charoset, a paste made of apples, pears, nuts and wine, signifying the mortar the Jews used when they were slaves; green vegetable that is dipped in salt water to symbolize tears of the slaves; and egg, symbolizing spring.

Learn more about Seder Plate foods and their significance

Passover Recipes

Foods that are often part of Passover celebrations include poached fish patties called gefilte fish, chicken soup with matzo balls, and matzo kugel, a sweet or savoury pudding. Try both versions below!

Matzo Kugel

This savoury version of matzo kugel can be served as a side dish, much like bread-based stuffing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 6 tablespoons chicken fat (or butter)
  • 6 matzos, broken in little pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 eggs, slightly beaten
  • 2 ½ cups chicken stock

Directions

  1. Sauté onions and celery in fat until onions are tender. Add to broken Matzo’s.
  2. Combine remaining ingredients and add to matzo mixture and pour into a buttered 1 ½-quart baking dish.  Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until firm.

Apple Matzo Kugel

This sweetened version of matzo kugel is a delicious side dish or dessert. Serve the leftovers for breakfast!

Ingredients

  • 4 matzos broken into small pieces
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted butter1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 4 large apples, peeled, cored and cut into ½-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup raisins

Directions

  1. Soak matzo pieces in water until soft. Drain but do not squeeze dry.
  2. Whisk eggs with salt, sugar, melted butter or margarine and cinnamon. Add to matzo mixture.  Stir in chopped nuts, apple pieces and raisins.
  3. Pour into a buttered 8×8 pan and dot with additional 2 tablespoons butter.
  4. Bake at 350 ⁰F for 45 minutes or until apples are tender and the top is lightly browned.

Zoroastrianism

  • Dec. 26, 2020 – Death of Prophet Zarathustra, the founder of the Zoroastrian faith who lived somewhere between ~6000-2000 BCE.
  • Mar. 21, 2021 – Norooz, “new day,” is New Year’s Day in the Fasli seasonal calendar celebrating the renewal of the world, the creation of fire and the day Zarathustra received his revelation.

Nowruz (Persian New Year)

Nowruz Mubarak! Happy Persian New Year!

Nowruz, also known as Persian New Year, is a secular holiday celebrated by over 300 million people of several different faiths and ethnic backgrounds. It originated 3500 years ago in the geographical area called Persia in the Middle East and Central Asia and today Nowruz is celebrated in many countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, India, Pakistan, Turkey, Canada and the United States.

This celebration of rebirth and renewal begins on the first day of spring and extends for two weeks. Events leading up to Nowruz include the spring cleaning of houses as well as the lighting of bonfires to eliminate all unpleasant events of the previous year. During Nowruz, family and friends gather to share food and good wishes as they celebrate the beginning of the New Year.

The last day of Norooz, called Sizdeh Bedar, is celebrated with picnics in the park where food, singing and dancing are enjoyed by all. Click on the tabs below to learn more!

Haft-Seen Table

One of the most important events of Nowruz is the making of a haft-seen table in the home. This table is set with seven specific items that begin with the letter ‘s’, all having special significance for the New Year. Other items are often added as well.

Haft-Seen Table Items:

  • Somaq (crushed sumac berries): symbolizes sunrise
  • Senjed (sweet dry fruit of the lotus tree): symbolizes love and affection, wisdom
  • Serkeh (vinegar): symbolizes patience, age
  • Sib (apples): symbolize health and beauty
  • Sir (garlic): symbolizes good health, medicine
  • Samanu (wheat pudding): symbolizes fertility, the sweetness of life, love
  • Sabzeh (sprouted wheat grass): symbolizes rebirth and renewal of nature

Other items often added to the table include the following:

  • mirror: symbolizes reflection on the past year
  • orange in a bowl of water: symbolizes the Earth
  • goldfish: symbolize new life
  • colored eggs: symbolize fertility
  • coins: symbolize prosperity in the New Year
  • hyacinths: symbolize spring
  • candles: symbolize light and happiness

 

Food

Food plays a significant role in Nowruz celebrations. Many special foods are prepared and enjoyed during Nowruz:

  • samanu – sprouted wheat pudding
  • nan-e nokhodchi – chickpea cookies with pistachio
  • ash-e resteh – noodle soup typically served on the first day of Nowruz, symbolizing the many possibilities in one’s life
  • sabzi pollo mahi – fish served with a special rice mixed with green herbs, symbolizing the greenness of nature in spring
  • naan berengi – cookies made from rice flour
  • baqlava – flaky pastry sweetened with rosewater
  • noghl – sugar-coated almonds

Nan-e Nokhodchi Persian Chickpea Cookies with Pistachio Recipe

These melt-in-your-mouth cookies have the texture of fine shortbread and the flavour of fragrant cardamom. And as a bonus, they are gluten-free and vegan!

Ingredients

  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup sifted confectioner’s sugar
  • 1 teaspoon finely ground cardamom*
  • ½ tablespoon rose water (optional)
  • 2 cups fine chickpea flour
  • 2-3 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios

*For the best flavour, grind dried cardamom pods in a coffee grinder and sift to remove any large pieces of husk.

Instructions

  1. Combine oil, sugar, cardamom, and rose water (if using) in a bowl. Mix with a hand mixer on medium for 2-3 minutes.  Add chickpea flour and beat on low for 1 minute or until dough is no longer sticky. The dough may be crumbly.
  2. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it holds together when a small amount is squeezed.
  3. Wrap the dough in plastic and let sit for 2 hours at room temperature.
  4. To form cookies, use a rounded tablespoon or small scoop (about 1 inch across). Place a few pieces of pistachios in the bottom of the tablespoon or scoop and then fill the spoon or scoop with cookie dough, pressing the dough down to fill completely. Unmold the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, rounded side up. Space cookies one inch apart. They do not expand when they bake. Alternatively, the dough can be rolled out between sheets of parchment paper to a thickness of 1/2 – 3/4 inch and cut out with small cookie cutters.
  5. Bake at 300⁰F for 20-30 minutes, or until the cookies turn a light golden colour. Let cookies cool on the pan for several minutes before removing them to a rack to cool completely. Handle them carefully, as they crumble easily.