The Center for the Study of Global Religions and Spiritualities is dedicated to the academic and transdisciplinary exploration of religion, spirituality, culture, history and identity.

It brings together faculty members from across VCU to foster collaboration, engage students and promote community dialogue, research and engagement. The center provides a space for both intellectual and communal exploration of religious topics, welcoming diverse perspectives and encouraging a broader understanding of global religious practices and spiritual expressions.

To support these goals, the center organizes public lectures throughout the academic year, centered around the shared focus of its four endowed chairs in the College of Humanities and Sciences. It also seeks to offer community-based education in the areas of religion, religious studies and spirituality. The center provides opportunities for student engagement and public education, with an emphasis on religious tolerance, inclusivity in religious practice, the history of religion, and the exploration of spiritualities in various forms. 

News

St. John’s Church, which was built in 1741, is the oldest church in Richmond. (Getty Images)

July 2, 2026

Understanding the role of faith and religion in the founding of the United States

American independence took root amid religious diversity and differences, VCU history professor Ryan Smith says.

VCU expert R. Andrew Chesnut shared his thoughts on the recent flare-up in the Catholic Church between traditionalists and the pope. (Getty Images)

July 1, 2026

Catholic Church faces flare-up this week between traditionalists and the pope

VCU expert R. Andrew Chesnut offers insight into the Society of St. Pius X and the challenge to papal authority.

(File photo)

Feb. 16, 2026

Religion and spirituality power annual lecture series from new VCU hub

The Center for the Study of Global Religions and Spiritualities encourages a broader understanding of world culture.