A new initiative has been launched on the Bannatyne campus of the University of Manitoba. The Bannatyne Multi-faith Centre opened its doors to the Rady Faculty community, providing a space for mindfulness, spirituality, and reflection.
Dedication Ceremony Highlights
The dedication ceremony took place on December 4. Located in Room 078 of the Brodie Centre, the Multi-faith Centre serves students, faculty, and staff from all faith backgrounds. This initiative is operated by the UM’s Spiritual Care and Multi-faith Centre, which established a similar facility on the Fort Garry campus in 2022.
Vision and Purpose
Edgar French, spiritual care coordinator at the university, remarked the goal has been to develop multi-faith spaces since the opening of the spiritual care office in 2017. He emphasized the importance of finding an appropriate location on Bannatyne.
During the ceremony, attendees heard from several speakers representing diverse faith groups. Among them were Indigenous, Muslim, Buddhist, Jewish, Hindu, Christian, and Sikh representatives. French noted, “Many traditions speak of a journey to a sacred place, ultimately guiding us to rediscover ourselves.”
Promoting Equity and Diversity
Key speakers included Margaret Lavallee, Elder-in-residence, Dr. Diane Hiebert-Murphy, UM Provost, and Dr. Anastasia Kelekis-Cholakis, Dean of the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry. Kelekis-Cholakis highlighted the necessity for health-care providers to maintain their well-being to serve others effectively. She asserted that recognizing various faith traditions promotes equity and diversity, crucial in health-care settings.
- Guests toured the centre after the ceremony.
- The open space features storage for sacred texts and prayer mats.
- Ablution facilities are available for Muslim visitors.
French emphasized the design of the room aims for neutrality and inclusivity, fostering a welcoming environment for all users.
Community Responses
Tim Rozovsky, a first-year medical student and co-founder of the Jewish Medical Students Association, praised the centre’s openness. “This space allows students to connect with one another in a judgment-free zone,” he said.
Greg Junghans, representing the Christian Medical and Dental Association of Canada, noted the importance of spiritual care at UM. He expressed that such support addresses many mental health concerns, helping students navigate life’s complexities.
Prabhnoor Singh, president of the University of Manitoba Students’ Union, shared his gratitude. He believes the centre will offer a perfect spot for reflection and mindfulness on busy days.
Operating Hours and Activities
The Bannatyne Multi-faith Centre is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about guided mindfulness meditation, monthly gatherings, or private bookings, visit the Spiritual Care and Multi-faith Centre or contact them via email.
