Charles P. Scott Center for Spiritual and Religious Life

Described as spiritual, joyful, powerful, and raucous, Shape Note (or Sacred Harp) singing is a traditional American style of four-part, a capella, community singing popular in the United States before the Civil War. This style still thrives across the US and in the UK, with strongholds in the American South and New England. It is called Shape-Note because the notes of the scale are indicated by distinctive shapes and names: Fa – triangle, Sol – circle, La – square, and Mi – diamond.

Described as spiritual, joyful, powerful, and raucous, Shape Note (or Sacred Harp) singing is a traditional American style of four-part, a capella, community singing popular in the United States before the Civil War. This style still thrives across the US and in the UK, with strongholds in the American South and New England. It is called Shape-Note because the notes of the scale are indicated by distinctive shapes and names: Fa – triangle, Sol – circle, La – square, and Mi – diamond.

Described as spiritual, joyful, powerful, and raucous, Shape Note (or Sacred Harp) singing is a traditional American style of four-part, a capella, community singing popular in the United States before the Civil War. This style still thrives across the US and in the UK, with strongholds in the American South and New England. It is called Shape-Note because the notes of the scale are indicated by distinctive shapes and names: Fa – triangle, Sol – circle, La – square, and Mi – diamond.

Everyone is welcome as we celebrate the beginning of Shabbat and Sukkot, the Jewish harvest holiday. We will begin with a lively prayer service from 5:30-6:30 pm, and continue with dinner until around 7:30 pm. Come for both or just one of these parts.

Please note that some or all of the event may take place outside in the Sukkah (temporary booth) if the weather permits, so dress appropriately.

We continue the celebration of Sukkot and Fall Family Weekend with a Hillel Bagel Brunch. All are welcome (with or without your family) to come share bagels and a full spread of toppings, with time to meet other students and families. If the weather permits we may convene outside in the Sukkah, so please dress appropriately.

An annual celebration of traditional Christmas music and biblical texts of the season.

Led by Dean of Spiritual and Religious Life Mark R. Orten, and Middlebury College Choir Musical Director Jeffrey Buettner.

Two services, at 4:00 and 7:00 pm. Donations will be accepted for local charities.  

Large print programs available. American Sign Language interpretation at the 4:00 service only.


Original artwork by Katie Runde Sanchez.

An annual celebration of traditional Christmas music and biblical texts of the season.

Led by Dean of Spiritual and Religious Life Mark R. Orten, and Middlebury College Choir Musical Director Jeffrey Buettner.

Two services, at 4:00 and 7:00 pm. Donations will be accepted for local charities.  

Large print programs available. American Sign Language interpretation at the 4:00 service only.

Original artwork by Katie Runde Sanchez.

No matter your background or experience, come meet the staff of the Scott Center for Spiritual and Religious Life (and some of our affiliates!) to explore ways to be intentional about mindfulness practices and meet other students who are interested, too. What is mindfulness and how is it different from meditation? What opportunities and resources exist across the college? How might you begin or maintain a practice that helps with life at school? 

Come meet the staff of the Scott Center for Spiritual and Religious life for tea, snacks, and an informal discussion of spiritual life at Middlebury. Learn about existing programs and resources ranging from student orgs to the interfaith house, to how we support all students whether religious or not. You are welcome!