On Oct. 16, 2004, Chapman University’s spiritual beacon, the Merle and Marjorie Fish Interfaith Center, officially opened to the public. Named in honor of alumnus Merle J. Fish ’40 and his late wife, Marjorie, the Fish Interfaith Center serves as the sacred center at the crossroads of campus.
With chaplains of various faith traditions, the Fish Center conducts religious and spiritual services and provides educational programming while caring for all members of the Chapman community, inclusive of many faith practices.
“Today’s university students are in a unique position, facing unprecedented challenges regarding mental health and spiritual wellness, and what has been identified as a crisis of loneliness,” said Reverend Nancy Brink, executive director of the Fish Interfaith Center. “They are deeply concerned about the environment, seeking ways to be of service in the community for the health of the earth and its people.”
During the 20 years since its naming, the Fish family has continued their support of the interfaith center. Merle and Marjorie’s son, Warren, and his wife, Gretchen, have supported Chapman over the years, including recent annual gifts totaling more than $100,000 that funded a new dais inside the chapel.
The new dais is accessible with a ramp and is a physical reminder of the Fish Interfaith Center’s dedication to inclusivity. As Chapman is deeply committed to interfaith dialogue and reconciliation among religions, the center is committed to welcoming students of all faiths to campus, offering a diverse program of worship services, lectures, interfaith activities and events.
“In today’s world, religion, faith and spirituality are vital,” Warren stated. “Hopefully, the Fish Center can help unite different religions and views to realize that everyone has common goals.”
With several unique spaces, the Fish Interfaith Center fosters spiritual, intellectual and social community. The distinctive architecture highlights four universal spiritual inspirations: light, cosmos, nature and water.
The first is the Wallace All Faiths Chapel, a designated space for worship, reflection and special events. Its soaring architecture inspires and calms people as they enter.
The Wilkinson Founders Chapel is a smaller space used for worship and prayer groups, meetings and social events. Its distinctive glass walls suggest water and light.
A prayer and meditation room provides a place for students to pray, meditate or sit quietly with meditation cushions, prayer rugs and a wudu/washing station.
Dee’s Garden of the Senses is a sculpted outdoor garden adorned with art installations, a fountain, lush foliage and comfortable seating areas that provide a peaceful environment for students to meditate or find quiet.
“Each of these spaces allows students and community members to connect, share and seek deeper meaning within their spiritual or religious journeys,” Brink continued. “Our chaplains serve as spiritual guides, mentoring and helping students form a community with one another as they encounter challenges in their lives and face the future.”
Warren’s parents taught him and his sister, Janet (Fish) Buckley, about giving back and the importance of philanthropy at an early age. He explains that it’s less about the amount of money and more about doing what you can.
“As long as you’re giving back, that helps to sustain something that you feel needs to continue to grow to make future generations more successful,” he concluded. “Hopefully, the alumni will give back to the school that gave them so much. I hope we can inspire others.”
If Chapman inspires you and you want to make a positive difference for others, like the Fish family, learn more about how to support Chapman or donate today.
