Religious identity and development is an important part of the university experience for many and affects how we all understand and interact with the greater world around us. The Guide to Religions serves as a general educational and reference tool for our MU community. It includes information for significant dates, practices and accommodations and campus interfaith meditation and prayer spaces. This guide is intended to help expand understanding and strengthen relationships of the diverse religious and non-religious groups at Mizzou.

Make this guide work for you

  • Check dates before scheduling critical deadlines, events, or activities.
  • Accommodate observant individuals with reasonable support. Consider food and beverage restrictions when planning menus. Provide opportunities for time away from the classroom and work place. Allow vacation time and avoid important academic and workplace deadlines and activities.
  • Ask others how they commemorate their occasion. Many individuals affiliated with the same group observe days in various ways.
  • Discover new experiences and learn about the history, culture, and significance of the day with special foods, speakers, displays and more.

Request accommodations

Many religious faiths are represented in the student body. The University of Missouri does not restrict student free exercise of religion, unless 1) the restriction is in the form of a rule of general applicability, and does not discriminate against religion or among religions; and 2) it can be demonstrated that the application of the restriction is essential to furthering a compelling university interest, and is not unduly restrictive considering the relevant circumstance. The policy of the University attempts to strike a reasonable balance between accommodating the religious practice of students and meeting academic needs and standards.

This form can only be used to notify an instructor of an absence associated with religious practice. Students are expected to notify their instructor(s) by completing and submitting this form in a manner that is consistent with the procedure outlined in the university’s policy on student religious accommodation. Providing false information regarding sincerely held religious practice is a violation of the university’s Standard of Conduct and will not be tolerated.

For further study

Want to learn more about world religions? Check these resources for classes, books, journals and other scholarly material.